If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to a record high, with around one-in-three British households now including a four-legged friend.
Indeed around one in three households now include a dog – with more joining every week.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
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Different breeds of dog also tend to have very different personalities – with certain pets perfect for those looking for a puppy with a sunny disposition.
Here are 10 of the happiest breeds of dog, according to the American Kennel Club.
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![They may not be as happy as their close cousins the Labrador Retriever - but the Golden Retriever isn't far off. They love life and will love you - just as long as you, crucially, keep them fed.](https://s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/jpim-static/2024/06/25/9/42/Untitled-design-2024-06-25T104043-576.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
9. Golden Retriever
They may not be as happy as their close cousins the Labrador Retriever - but the Golden Retriever isn't far off. They love life and will love you - just as long as you, crucially, keep them fed. | Canva/Getty Images
![Known as the English Toy Spaniel in the USA, the King Charles Spaniel needs very little to be happy. Give them a few laps of the garden and a comfortable spot to nap and they'll be utterly content.](https://s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/jpim-static/2024/06/25/9/10/b25lY21zOmRmMDI5MWE2LTY3MDAtNGUwYS04NjllLTIzNDQyYzMwZWUwZDowNDBjYTc4MC0wZGMxLTRiYjQtOWU2Ny03N2EyZGJi.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
10. King Charles Spaniel
Known as the English Toy Spaniel in the USA, the King Charles Spaniel needs very little to be happy. Give them a few laps of the garden and a comfortable spot to nap and they'll be utterly content. | Canva/Getty Images