We wanted to find out the extent of national dog ownership and which dogs, breeds and names capture Australian hearts. Read our findings from our bespoke study below.
We wanted to find out the extent of national dog ownership and which dogs, breeds and names capture Australian hearts. Read our findings from our bespoke study below.
We love our dogs. They always find a way to bring a smile to our day, or much needed comfort when we’re down. Our dogs are our constant companions, ready to walk, play, or just hang out. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia wanted to find out the extent of national interest in dog ownership and which dog breeds capture Australian hearts. We performed a bespoke study into Australian search behaviour, utilising Google search volumes to reveal the current top trending dog breeds and dog names of the year.
*Analysing Google search interest of more than 470 breeds between September 2019 and August 2022, the study uncovered the top dogs and dog breeds in search demand across Australia, along with each state and main city. We also took a look into dog names to see what’s trending and most ‘pupular’ for our beloved companions right now. Read on to find out the most searched dogs of the year!
What do we want? Pets!
In 2022, Australians have continued to show their enthusiasm for bringing canine companions into their lives with almost 17 million searches surrounding getting a new dog this year. While searches have eased off from their 2020 high, it’s clear to see that many of us are still on the hunt for a new family member.
Whether we’re working from home permanently or back in the office, Australians are seeking to introduce new pets to our lives at the right time. Many would-be pet owners may have made finding the right dog their new year’s resolution, with total searches for both new and adopted dogs at its 2022 peak during January.
Many of those still searching for a dog are looking to bring home a brand new puppy, with 12.7 million searches related to new dogs in 2022. These searches accounted for more than 76% of the total interest, down from around 78% in 2021. This matches up with recent research from Animal Medicines Australia (AMA), which reported that 51% of pure-breed dogs and 41% of cross-breed dogs brought home in 2022 came from a breeder, while another 13% and 15% were purchased from pet shops respectively.1 However, Australians haven’t forgotten about adoption, with more than 4 million searches in the last year around adopting or rescuing a dog. AMA reported that 11% of pure-breed dogs entering Australian homes in 2022 were rescued from animal shelters, along with 13% of cross-breed dogs and 27% of mixed breeds. With many shelters filling up to capacity in 2022, there are still lots of dogs looking for a loving home.2
1 Pets and the Pandemic: a social research snapshot of pets and people in the COVID-19 era
2 VIDEO: Pet surrender on the increase as shelters are at a 'crisis'
There’s no doubt about it – Australians are on the hunt for dogs! But which breeds are they looking for?
This year’s top 10 includes three breeds making the list for the first time, plus one familiar breed making a return after a dip in 2021. Larger breeds continue to dominate the rankings, taking out 7 of the top 10.
We analysed Google searches of 464 dogs and dog breeds, including traditional, pedigree, and cross-breeds, to reveal Australia’s top trending dog breeds– and there’s a few surprises! Does your four-legged friend feature below?
The Cavoodle is top dog once again, leaping up from #5 in 2021 with more than 1.3 million searches this year. A mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle, the Cavoodle is in fact a cross-breed, but has been growing in popularity over the years.
Australia’s second most searched for pooch is the Shiba Inu, making an impressive jump from #8 last year. The breed received a 57.19% increase in searches YoY, to a total of over 1.1 million. These hunting dogs from Japan are agile, alert and are often chosen as companion dogs.
The Border Collie takes third place, with similar interest to last year at just over 1 million searches. The Border Collie is known for intelligence, perceptiveness, and stubbornness, making them common choices for working and training.
The Poodle has sprung into the top 10 with just under 1 million searches, up from #21 in 2021. A common choice for show dogs and creative grooming, the poodle is actually a high energy breed that needs lots of playful stimulation to thrive.
Last year’s #1, the Golden Retriever dropped in search interest by 11.73% YoY, falling to #5. Receiving just under 1 million searches in 2022, the Golden Retriever’s sweet and social nature can be a draw for families.
The second new entrant into the top 10, climbing from #15 with just over 900,000 searches. One of the most unique looking dogs, the Dachshund was originally bred to dive into burrows and chase out game. They are often vocal dogs who will regularly let you know their opinion! This dog's short legs and long body predispose him to back pain and disc issues and as such he shouldn't be encouraged to jump on/off furniture or go up and down stairs. He is more suited to a single level home, so if you have lots of stairs in your house another breed may be a better fit.
The gorgeous Australian Shepherd has made it back into the top 10 with almost 900,000 searches, after a drop to #14 last year. Despite their name, Australian Shepherds, also known as “Aussies”, originated on ranches in the United States. However, they have been energetic and indispensable working dogs here for over 70 years.
Our next new entrant into the top 10 is the French Bulldog, up from #13 last year. This laid-back breed is often thought to be a little goofy, and enjoys clowning around. Whilst many people may find the facial features of this breed to be part of his appeal, there are some serious health consequences that come from being a brachycephalic breed (having a shortened snout) which can impact on his quality of life. Learn more here
The Labrador slips in at #9 for the second year in a row with just over 772,100 searches. Known as both friendly companions and useful working dogs, you will find this affectionate breed in chocolate, yellow and black.
Moving from 3rd place to 10th, the large and lovable German Shepherd is intelligent and easily trained. The German Shepherd continues the trend of large dogs in the top 10, with just over 740,000 searches. They are often trained as herding or guard dogs and are a loyal family pet..
After the top 10, the following loveable breeds made it into the top 25 list of Australians’ current trending favourites.
Read on below to find out which in-demand breeds take the top spots across our states, territories and main cities. Some of the findings may surprise you - does your four-legged friend feature in our top 10 trending dog breeds list?
No matter where you are, Australians love their Cavoodles, with this affectionate breed taking out the top spot in six states and territories. In fact, Australians are more on the same page than ever when it comes to trending dogs, with six breeds making it into the top 10 in every state – Cavoodle, Shiba Inu, Border Collie, Dachshund, French Bulldog, and the Australian Shepherd. Still, local favourites were represented, some making it as far as the top 3.
Cosmopolitan love for non-sporting breeds
Dogs in the non-sporting group found particular popularity in the more densely populated states of NSW and VIC. Three breeds from this group made the top 7 in VIC, and four in NSW, more than any other state or territory.
Herding dogs trending in SA, WA and TAS
Our study found that herding dogs in general have the highest trending search terms in states such as SA, WA and TAS. However, the Border Collie has bounded its way into hearts in almost every state.
Labr-adored in QLD
The Labrador Retriever found adoration in QLD, where it reached #3, the only state where this breed featured in a spot higher than #9. The Labrador is widely considered one of the most popular dogs in the world, with an astounding 1970 litters birthed in Australia in a single year in 2019.[1]
1Australia’s most popular dog breeds
Top Trending Dog Breeds by Australian State and Territory
When it comes to trending canines, how do our main cities stack up? Australia’s big cities had much in common with the states and territories they came from – but our study also revealed a few unusual differences.
Perth loves the unusual Docker
Have you ever seen this cross-breed? This unique cross of Dachshund and Cocker Spaniel is Perth’s second most trending dog, beating out the national #1 Cavoodle. A cross between a hound group and sporting group breed, the Docker is an active breed that can become very attached to their owners.
Hobart turns Tasmanian trends on their head
Aside from searches for the Cavoodle, Hobart’s trending dogs were a little different to the Tasmanian average. Hobart showed a strong interest in the Golden Retriever (#2), and Shiba Inu (#3) that were ranked overall in Tasmania in #5 and #8 respectively.
Greyhound still favoured in Darwin
The Greyhound’s popularity continues in Darwin even over the years, taking the #1 spot this year. This long-legged breed also picked up the #2 spot in Canberra. Many adopted greyhounds are retired racing dogs that have found new life as an affectionate family pet.
Top Trending Dog Breeds by Australian Main City
How do you choose the perfect pet name?
Finding the right name for your new four-legged friend can be a tough task. If you’re looking for inspiration, Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia has done the digging on the top trending pup names of the year and the results are in.
We analysed search volumes of already well-known and popular dog names to see what was trending throughout the year and, where Australians may be taking inspiration from when naming their dogs.
The nation’s current trending favourite monikers are revealed through an index ranking score, based on growth in search popularity and YoY change. It’s clear that we draw inspiration from the things we love as well as what’s happening in the world around us – from celebrities to popular culture and, of course, the colour of our companion’s fur!
Overall name trends
A dog name with spice – Pepper takes #1
Pepper is the most trending dog name of 2022, with an increase in search volume of 163% compared to the year before. The reason for this remains a mystery. Pepper has always been a popular dog name and has been a popular choice amongst dog owners for more than 100 years, with a canine called Pepper featuring as an evil-detecting dog in the 1908 novel the House on the Borderland. It could be the perfect choice for a dark-coated or black speckled four-legged friend.
Names we know and love
This year’s top dog names were dominated with everyday names we know and love. Our dogs are our friends and an important part of our lives, so it’s no wonder we give them names also used by humans. Luna (#2), Chloe (#4), Sadie (#5), Tucker (#7), Millie (#8) and Gus (#9) are all popular names in their own right.
Out of the top 10 names, 4 are female, and 4 are male, and the remaining 2 (Pepper and Rebel) are gender neutral.
Inspired by a little magic
The dog name Bruno received over 180,000 searches this year, rising in popularity by 77% and is this year’s number 3. We have a suspicion this might have been caused by the viral song “we don’t talk about Bruno” from the popular movie Encanto.
Top 25 Trending Dog Names in Australia
Which dog name category was the most popular?
This year we analysed the ‘top of the top’, taking search trends of the top 25 most popular male, female, and gender neutral dog names from the Rover Seed list to reveal which are trending in Australia right now. If you’re looking for a name for your next four-legged friend, read on below for some inspiration!
Male Dog Names
The top 25 male dog names enjoyed more than 4.1 million searches. Of the top 10 and top 25 overall dog names, 40% are male. Some of these names are old-fashioned favourites, while others are names you wouldn’t be surprised to find among family or friends.
Top ten searches:
Top Trending Male Dog Names
The higher the index score, the stronger the YoY % change and therefore, the increase in interest of name.
#2. Female Dog Names
The top female names drew in over 3.3 million searches, and made up 40% of the top 10 and 32% of the top 25. These names are a little more common in the human world than their male counterparts, with Luna, Chloe, Sadie, Willow, and Piper all relatively common baby names in 2022.
Top ten searches:
Top Trending Female Dog Names
The higher the index score, the stronger the YoY % change and therefore, the increase in interest of name.
#3 Gender Neutral Dog Names
Including this year’s #1 trending dog name, Pepper, these names saw the most searches with more than 7.9 million total, but had the least names in the top 25. Some of these names are also popular baby names, while some are a little more creative. Notably dogs named Bingo (#5) are likely inspired by the popular children’s TV show Bluey.
Top ten searches:
Top Trending Gender Neutral Dog Names
The higher the index score, the stronger the YoY % change and therefore, the increase in interest of name.
From most searched-for dog fur colour to the traits and characteristics that Australians are looking for - here's what's trending right now.
Popular Dog Fur Colours
We love our dogs for their personalities, but we have to admit it, we’re certainly drawn to a handsome canine! Dog fur can come in an almost unimaginable range of colours and shades, from the more common black and red to unusual shades like lilac and merle. Of our top 10 dog breeds, Border Collies have a surprisingly large range of colours.
#1. Red
Red and its variants are the top trending dog colours on our list, with more than 228,000 searches. From ruby to rust or even red merle, Australians have long been in love with this unique colour that glows in the outback sun. Red was further popularised by the real life Red Dog, the subject of the 2011 film of the same name. Of our top 10 dogs, almost all can be found in a shade of red but it’s most typical of Cavoodles, Shiba Inus and Australian Shepherds.
#2. Black
Black enjoyed the second most searches, at just fewer than 120,000. Black dogs have long been associated with the supernatural, and have even been depicted in folklore as night guardians guiding travellers or protecting them from danger. Of our top 10 dogs, 9 can be found in black, black and tan, or brindle, with only the Golden Retriever missing out (for obvious reasons!).
#3. Blue
Blue is the most unusual fur colour on our list, and dogs in this colour are often bred especially to bring out the hue. Yet, Australians show an interest in this colour with more than 77,000 searches. Varying in shade from silvery cool grey to dark blue, this colour is most striking in our top 10 for Dachshunds or in the silver-blue merle of the Australian Shepherd and Border Collie. Outside of our trending dogs, the Blue Heeler is a notable Aussie dog in this colour.
#4. Multi-coloured
From the two-tone German Shepherd to the many colours swirled into the Australian Shepherd’s merle, most dogs on our top 10 list naturally come in colours that have more than one hue. Interest in dogs with multi-coloured coats reached more than 53,000 searches in 2022, with searches for black and white dogs like the typical Border Collie topping the list.
#5. White
With their striking appearance, white dogs appear in folklore almost as much as their black counterparts. Whether they’re pure white, cream, fawn or ivory, these dogs drew more than 43,000 searches in 2022. Famous white dogs include Disney’s Bolt, and Snowy from Tintin. White is a common colour for Poodles, the #4 dog on our top 10 list.
Most Searched for Dog Traits
We all know different dogs have different traits and personalities. Nature, nurture and temperament can all play a big role in determining who our four-legged friends are in their everyday life. Australians are searching for dogs who will match their lifestyle and needs.
#1 Size
Whether we’re looking for small dogs for our apartment, or big dogs to romp around the countryside with, searches about size dominated our quest for a dog with the right traits. Small breed dogs topped this category with more than 214,000 searches, down from a peak at lockdown. This lines up with our top 10, with breeds such as Cavoodles, French Bulldogs and Dachshunds. Following this were searches for big dogs, lining up with the trend towards larger dog breeds taking out our top 10.
#2. Age
It’s no surprise that Australians were on the hunt for puppies, with more than 60,000 searches per month. However, we don’t want to overlook the benefits of adopting an older dog that’s already been housetrained and can sleep through the night! If you are adopting, being open minded with age can give you a lot more choices.
#3. Maintenance
Concerns about our dogs’ coats topped the maintenance queries. Searches for hypoallergenic dogs topped this category with more than 71,000, as Australians look to find a dog that won’t trigger their allergies. Next up are searches for “non-shedding” and “non-molting” dogs as we dream of keeping our homes free from hair.
#4. Intelligence
The fourth most popular category was dog intelligence with over 44,200 searches, as Australians are on the hunt for clever dogs. Intelligent dogs are generally considered more trainable, which may be the reason behind the trend. However, smart dogs can get bored more easily, so be prepared to entertain.
#5 Temperament
The next trending category is dog temperament. This section saw many different kinds of searches, from non-aggressive dogs, to family dogs, friendliest dogs, and loyal breeds. Many of these searches were family oriented, as Australians search for canine companions that can be easily integrated into their family life.
#6. Energy Level
There is a stereotype that Australians are after energetic dogs to match our active lifestyle, but our study shows that might not be the case. Top keywords in this category focused on calm dog breeds, calm small dogs, and calm puppies, which require less exercise and attention as part of a busy everyday routine
Popular Dog Traits
Things to do with your dog
Australians love the quality time we spend with our dogs, and are always sniffing out dog-friendly places and activities. Searches for dog activities are on the rise, up 48% in the last year. This upward trend is likely related to the overall increase in dog ownership in the last couple of years, as we look to navigate the joys and practicalities of life with our canine companions.
The search “dog-friendly parks” topped the list, with more than 625,880 searches in 2022. This fits into our quest to find other everyday dog-friendly places to play, hang out and have fun, with cafes (#3), beaches (#6) and walks (#7) also in the top 10.
The next noticeable trend was the search for places to leave our dog when we’re away from home, whether short term (Dog Day Care at #2 and Dog Sitting at #5) or long-term (Dog Boarding at #7). Whether we’re heading back into the office, or heading off for a few days, we want to find the right place to leave our pup.
Finally, we dream of taking our dogs away with us, with the quest for accommodation (#4), camping (#9) and holidays (#10) a notable search trend.
Things To Do With Your Dog
Here to help with your dog
We all love our dogs, and try our best to make their daily lives happy and healthy. But if you’re a new pet parent, it can be hard to know how to look after your beloved friend the right way. Fortunately, Hill's Pet Nutrition is here to help. We’ve put together top tips and advice from our pet experts on topics from care, to training, to nutritional needs. No matter which breed or pup you adore, we’re there at every stage of your dog’s development to help them live their best life.
Remember, before getting a new dog or puppy, it’s important to make sure you’re ready for a new pet in your home. You will need to give your dog the attention and care they need throughout their life, so think carefully about whether you’re ready to make a long term commitment and care for a new friend. Consult with your family and talk to your vet if you already have other pets in the house. Consider adopting or rescuing a dog if you are able.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s Top Dog Breed Dietary Suggestions
We know how important the right nutrition and a well-balanced diet is to your dog’s health and wellbeing throughout their life. From the smallest of Chihuahuas to the biggest St. Bernard, we pride ourselves in providing the food your pet needs. See our table below to find our suggestion for foods to suit your dog or click here to browse food suggestions.
"Hill’s Pet Nutrition used data sourced from Google Keyword Planner to perform a bespoke data study based on over 248 million Google searches, to identify changes in search behaviour around dog ownership due to the current climate across Australia. The study identified search volume and interest around dog adoption and rescue, getting a new dog, dog breeds & dog names to highlight Australia’s current search interest in ownership and trending dog breeds and dog names. In 2022/2023 the study also looked at fur colour and dog traits prospective owners look for, and as current owners venture further outside, the study also looked at activities they partake in with their furry friends.
The data was distilled at a nationwide, state and city level to provide further insights on dog ownership and the rise in search interest.
To reveal the list of top trending dog names, a search ‘popularity’ index score based on growth in search and YoY change was applied and then ranked. In all other areas rankings were based on the largest amount of search volume for 2022.
The data relates only to search term volume, which may not correlate to actual preference of the nation. We can, however, draw the conclusion that the rise in search terms may be indicative of popularity or favouritism.
The study collated and analysed Google searches from September 2019 – August 2022 which allowed isolation of search behaviour in three twelve-month periods (Sept 2019 - Aug 2020, Sept 2020 - Aug 2021 & Sept 2021 - Aug 2022) to provide a YoY comparison. All data is correct and representative as of September, 2022. Full methodology is available on request. Data was collated and analysed in September 2022.
Dog breeds & Types:
Well known popular dog names:
When sharing this data, please credit Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia as the original source of this information: https://www.hillspet.com.au/dog-care/australias-top-trending-dog-breeds
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