New Zealand’s Top 5 Dog Breeds

From the Beagle to the Huntaway, the Border Collie to Rottweilers, there’s a dog breed to suit just about everyone. But what are the top dog breeds in New Zealand? We already know Kiwis are a nation of animal lovers, and we wanted to find out exactly what dogs are our most-adored friends.

That’s not to say we won’t happily accept a cuddle from just about any dog we come across (yep, we’re saps). However, some people are confirmed lovers of certain breeds. And some breeds are reeeeeally well loved. In other words, they’re the most searched for breeds on Google. And you’ll find them ranking top on breed registers too.

So, without further ado, discover the top dog breeds in New Zealand.

5 top dog breeds in New Zealand

According to sources like the New Zealand Herald, Kiwis are serious dog-lovers. In fact, our own Love Your Pet Day research found that, although 46% of New Zealanders favoured cats and dogs equally, 38% preferred dogs.

There’s been research into the most popular breeds of dogs locally for years. And while you won’t be surprised at some of the favourite dogs, maybe others will open your eyes to a world of new possibilities.

So, what are the five top dog breeds in New Zealand? Here they are starting at the top:

1. Labrador – pick of the top dog breeds in New Zealand

The quintessential Labrador has been New Zealand’s top dog breeds for years. Nowadays, it accounts for a staggering eighth of New Zealand’s purebred dogs. That means there are over 40,000 purebred Labradors registered in New Zealand alone.

It’s easy to see why the Lab equals love. They’re pretty to look at, they’re good with kids and they get on well with other pets too. They have great temperaments and typically enjoy a bit of everything. So, whether you live rurally and love to walk or are a city-dweller who enjoys regular beach trips.

Just be aware that the Labrador can be prone to weight gain and pet obesity that can lead to diabetes in dogs. Find out about healthy treats to stay slim in our article on National Pet Obesity Day.

Read about two Kiwi labrador puppies named Shilo and Rex. These perky pups have had some adventures and mishaps and are best mates for life. Of all the top dog breeds in New Zealand, if this one is for you, then read the full article on the Labrador personality.

2. Border Collie

Border Collie dogs are New Zealand’s second top dog breed by a good margin. Although they missed out on the top spot, these little fluffballs are still a firm favourite.

Presumably, part of the reason for this is that they’re just such perfect rural and farming dogs. Border Collie dogs are great at sheep herding and farm work. Plus they’re genius-level intelligent, super-friendly, and have loads of stamina. Sounds like a perfect match for a busy, hard-working family, rural or not.

If you’ve got a Border Collie, put the kids to work by getting them to teach it one (or all) of our five easy dog training tricks. Border Collie dogs known to learn very quickly, so you’ll have a performing dog in no time.

Read the full Border Collie dog profile here to discover more of this fantastic breed’s talents.

Psst … Is reading about all these top dog breed personalities making you wonder which dog (or cat) YOU may be at heart? Find out what pet you are and share it with your friends by clicking below:

3. New Zealand Huntaway

It’s good to see Kiwis supporting Kiwis! The New Zealand Huntaway dog is, as you might imagine, unique to New Zealand. They’re recognised by Dogs New Zealand as an indigenous breed. That’s totally pawsome!

Huntaways originated by mixing the Border Collie with other breeds like Dobermans, Fox Hounds, and the Labrador. The idea was to create a herding dog which, unlike the others, uses its voice to herd.

Because of the variation in terms of what Border Collies were crossed with, Huntaways still have quite varied appearances. Typically, Huntaways are medium to large, and are often black and brown. What they do have in common is an amazing attitude to work and an ability to cover long distances even over rugged terrain.

If this sounds similar to the Heading Dogs below, that’s because they are. Both were bred from Border Collies to be working dogs. However, one of the differences is the Huntaway uses their bark to herd. Perhaps this is where the saying ‘a dog’s bark is bigger than its bite‘ comes from!

Plus, they say that Huntaways chase the sheep away while Heading Dogs bring them back. They’re only small differences, so people love them enough to include them both in the top. Which brings us up to 4th place for top dogs in New Zealand, and a video intro:

4. Heading Dogs

Heading Dogs are one of our proudly local top dog breeds in New Zealand. Originating from Scottish Border Collies, these dogs tend to be long-legged and tall with a smooth coat.

They do bear a resemblance to a Border Collie, but don’t look exactly the same. There are variations in the dogs’ exact physical characteristics. They’re often black and white but can be brown and white, and some are even red.

Heading dogs are great at herding and farm work. They’re quick and agile and have fast reactions. They’re particularly good working in close quarters with tasks like splitting up herds of sheep. Heading Dogs are smart, willing, and affectionate.

They do well as family dogs, as long as you give them enough exercise and stimulation. Otherwise, like Border Collies, they can become highly strung without an outlet for all that energy.

5. Jack Russell Terrier

Aaaah, who doesn’t love a good JRT? The only small dog to make the cut and fifth in our list of top dog breeds in New Zealand, Jack Russells can be amazing pets. In fact, they feature high up in the list of famous dogs who have saved lives in New Zealand. Be sure to find out all about Dog Almighty contestant – the Kiwi Jack Russell cross named Maisy.

They’ve been a firm favourite of equestrians and farmers for years, partly because they’re high-energy and require plenty of exercise and space. However, that doesn’t stop them from being great house pets too. You find them in city and suburban homes because they make seriously loyal and loving companions.

JRT’s generally have a great temperament, unless you do something that rubs them the wrong way. The JRT isn’t always the best dog for families with little kids; if provoked they can snap.

Speaking of kids, if you’re expecting and you already have a dog, read about introducing your dog to your new baby. Or if you’re looking for a dog for your kids, why not check out our article on the kindest dog breeds.

Have a small living space? JRT’s could still be a good choice if you’re able to dedicate plenty of time to walking and playing. If not, know that they might get hyperactive and start barking. If you’re really keen to know the best pets for apartments, read this.

Top dog nutrition

Now that you know the top five dog breeds in New Zealand, take a moment to consider health. Each purebred dog comes with certain health conditions it’s most prone to. For example, the Lab is prone to hip dysplasia in dogs while epilepsy in Beagles can be common.

Diet is also important in dog health. Be sure to speak to your vet for the right food to match your dog’s growth stages, and eventual dog size. And for nutritious snacks without the kilo’s, read our article on National Pet Obesity Day.

Also important is keeping your furry friend fit and well socialised. For bigger dogs or dogs who have musculoskeletal system disorders, read about exercising your dog without walking. And when they’re still pups (or newly rescued), consider a good puppy school.

Top dog breeds in New Zealand or not, insure them

Thinking of getting a loyal companion in the form of one of these five dog breeds?

Whether you get a purebred or a crossbreed, pet insurance can give you a soft landing when your pup (or old-timer) gets a bit too adventurous. Or even when they don’t – illnesses and other mishaps can crop up at any time and costs thousands to diagnose and treat.

Check out our dog insurance plans here and consider bounding into cover before any pre-existing conditions emerge (insurers don’t cover those).

Is it time to explore tops cover for your tops dog? Click below to start today.