Big dogs have their day again as owners move to the country
BRITONS have fallen back in love with large dogs, figures show, with families finding they have more space after moving out of towns and cities during the pandemic.
The breed to have enjoyed the biggest growth in popularity last year was the Pyrenean mountain dog, which in adult form typically weighs between 121lb and 165lb (55kg and 75kg).
Those unfamiliar with the breed might imagine a polar bear with the fluffiness of an Angora rabbit and the temperament of Jeeves the butler.
The number of Pyrenean mountain dog puppies to be registered with The Kennel Club last year was, at around 160, relatively small – but it constituted a 130 per cent increase from 2020.
Of the 10 breeds whose popularity increased the most, six were classified as “large”. They included the English setter – a vulnerable native breed that saw a 109 per cent increase in registrations – as well as the giant schnauzer, the chow chow and the akita.
In ninth place was the old English sheepdog, fondly remembered from the Dulux advertisements. With a 66 per cent increase in popularity, this breed has not only won many admirers, it has lost its vulnerable status.
The figures were released by The Kennel Club, which organises Crufts. Bill Lambert, a spokesman for Crufts, suggested that the resurgence of big dogs might be connected with the lockdown trend of moving to the countryside, where ample green space suits.
He said: “We are delighted to see that some of our more vulnerable native breeds saw some of the biggest boosts in popularity over the past year.”
The most popular breeds overall were a familiar group. Labradors are Britain’s most popular dog, followed by the French bulldog, the cocker spaniel, the bulldog and the miniature smoothhaired dachshund.
Crufts 2022 begins on Thursday and runs until March 13. It will feature a first appearance since 1898 of the harrier, an ancient, medium-sized British scenthound whose name comes from its traditional prey: the hare. Nineteen harriers will compete for the Best in Show award. They will have to best a field that includes another Pyrenean: the smoothfaced Pyrenean sheepdog. It is a small breed of herding dog that was recognised by the Kennel Club only last year. Although it is closely-related to the long-haired Pyrenean sheepdog, it has a softer, shorter coat.