One in six pet owners have admitted they regret choosing their pet breed, a new study has found.
Research conducted by Sainsbury's Bank Pet Insurance discovered that more than half of cat and dog owners living in the South of England hastily choose pets without carefully considering their personality traits. In fact, only 21% of owners spent more than a week researching the right breed for them.
The study also found that over 56% of owners decided on adopting pets for companionship purposes, while 39% chose theirs for unconditional love.
Dr Scott Miller, a TV vet, told the Bournemouth Echo: "I am saddened to hear that so many pet owners are regretting the animals they have chosen as companions. Dogs and cats come in all shapes and sizes, and have different temperaments.
"Looking after a pet is a huge commitment so it is important that people undertake adequate research before buying a pet to ensure it is a happy experience for you and the animal."
Following on from the research, the pet insurance company has launched a match-making app, Pawfect Match, to help owners find rescue animals across the UK that are most suited to them.
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Jason King, customer director at Sainsbury's Bank explains: "Britain is a nation of animal lovers and pets are part of the family. We understand how important it is to undertake research before adopting or purchasing a pet, including what type of pet insurance is best suited to your dog or cat's needs."
If you're considering giving a rescue dog a loving home then it's vital you do your research first. Whether you live in a flat and need a dog for small spaces or want a pup to help reduce anxiety, doing some investigating beforehand will ensure you find the breed best suited for you.
On the hunt for the perfect dog breed? Take a look at some of our round-ups below:
- 5 quiet dog breeds that don't bark as much as others
- 6 of the best family dog breeds who are great with children
- 5 calm dog breeds for owners who are laid-back
- 5 of the best dog breeds for an outgoing owner
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16 adorable mixed-breed dogs you'll fall in love with
Cavachon
Think you can figure out this combo name? It's Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise blended together.
Siberian Retriever
Labs have reigned supreme as one of the most popular dog breeds for years, so it's no surprise their prized traits also frequently appear in mixed breeds. This combo with a Siberian Husky is slightly smaller than its purebred cousins.
Chiweenie
This pint-size hybrid has the intelligence of a Chihuahua and the spirited nature of a Dachshund.
Weimador
Weimaraners possess trademark silvery-grey coats, but combine one with a Labrador retriever and you'll see them in a variety of glossy colours. With two athletic parents, these pups can exhibit boundless energy yet a friendly temperament.
Shorkie
You can easily scoop up a Shorkie — a Shih Tzu and Yorkshire terrier hybrid — with one arm for a quick cuddle. They typically weigh less than 15 pounds.
Border Collie-Sheltie
Though they don't have a fun name just yet, the Border Collie-Shetland Sheepdog combo is one of our favourite mixed breeds. They're gentle, athletic, and oh-so photogenic.
Pomsky
While they can vary within the same litter, think of Pomskies as smaller, fluffier Siberian Huskies thanks to their Pomeranian DNA. These little dogs usually weigh between 20 and 30 pounds.
Yorkipoo
Weighing in at 15 pounds or less, Yorkshire Terrier-Poodle crosses marry the best of both worlds. These clever and playful companions get the benefit of hypoallergenic coats from both of their parents.
Corgidor
Take a Welsh Corgi and a Labrador Retriever, and you end up with a medium-weight, somewhat short-legged dog. Knowing what type of Corgi parent your pup had can also provide valuable info, as Cardigan Welsh Corgis get bigger than the Pembroke kind.
Cockapoo
The Cockapoo (part Cocker Spaniel, part Poodle) is one of the most popular mixed-breed dogs. They aren't prone to shedding and can be easily trained, making them a great choice for families.
Chug
It might not be the most elegant name, but the Chug (a Chihuahua-Pug mix) is certainly interesting. They are the perfect size for cuddling in your lap, which has made this mixed breed more and more popular.
Morkie
Morkies are a seriously cute cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. They're small, but certainly not timid. Morkies tend to love attention and stay protective of their families.
Shih-Poo
A charming cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, the Shih-poo has plenty of personality. They tend to be a bit stubborn, but when you look at that little face, you just can't be mad. Shih-poos can have curlier fur (reflecting their poodle heritage), but they can also have silky fur (from their Shih Tzu background).
Schnoodle
Schnoodle are another great Poodle hybrid. This time, the cross is with a Schnauzer. Smart and playful, this mix can really run the gamut between teeny lapdogs and huge 70-plus pounders (just like poodles).
Goldendoodle
This very popular crossbreed is half Golden Retriever and half Poodle. If you're lucky enough to own one, you'll have a loyal friend who is always up for some playtime.
Mastiff Mix
You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that Mastiff mixes are known for having a gentle disposition. The phrase "gentle giant" most certainly comes to mind.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
