It’s been a bumper few years for dog ownership, with more of us than ever before welcoming a new four-legged friend into our homes – and our hearts.

© Many breeds of dog have enjoyed a surge in popularity over the last couple of years.

One of the unexpected effects of the global pandemic – and the resulting series of lockdowns – was an increase in demand for puppies.

© Once again, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the UK with 61,559 registrations in 20...

And the extent of that soaring in demand has been shown by the latest registrations statistics from the UK Kennel Club.

© Continuing its recent increase in popularity the French Bulldog is the UK's second most popular bree...

In 2021 they registered a remarkable 349,013 dogs, compared to 250,659 in 2020 – an increase of 39.2 per cent year-on-year.

© A gun dog known for its active, good-natured personality, the Cocker Spaniel is the UK's third most ...

Of the 221 different recognised breeds of pedigree dog, many saw huge increases, including the ever-popular Labrador Retriever with 61,559 registrations in 2021 compared with 39,905 the year before.

© The Bulldog is one of the breed of dog most closely associated with the UK and remains popular - wit...

For all the latest dog news, chat, advice and information, join our Scotsdog Facebook group here

© If you think you've been seeing more Miniature Smooth Haired Dachshunds around of late you're probab...

And many of the rarer dogs also had a good year – for example the Glen of Imaal Terrier enjoyed a 130 per cent increase in popularity from 36 registrations in 2020 to 83 in 2021.

© The second spaniel in the top 10, the English Springer Spaniel had 14,579 registrations last year.

Here are the 24 breeds that have received the most new registrations in according to the latest Kennel Club figures.

© Friendly, loyal and obedient, the Golden Retriever was originally bred in 19th century Scotland and ...

Read more:

© Equally popular as a guard dog, police dog, army dog or family pet, 8,568 courageous and loyal Germa...

Dog treats UK: treats to entertain your puppy or dog, including food and fun toys to play with

© Another breed that has surged in popularity in Britain in the last decade, 7,499 Staffordshire Bull ...

These are the 10 most popular puppy names chosen by new dog owners in the UK over lockdown

© Originally from China, the Pug has proved to be a popular canine import - with 6,122 registrations i...

Best dog beds: stylish, comfortable dog beds for all kinds of dogs, and every owner’s budget

© Taking its name from the border between Scotland and England where it was first bred, the Border Ter...

Here are the 13 most popular breeds of cute and adorable dog in the UK

< PREVIOUS SLIDE SLIDE 1 of 13 NEXT SLIDE >

© Known as 'The American Gentleman' in its native USA, the Boston Terrier is also popular on this side...