If you shouted ‘Daisy!’ in a park, chances are that more than one dog will come bounding your way.
Ireland’s top dog names and breeds have been revealed – as charity Dog Trust Ireland launches its second annual census with a call on dog enthusiasts to help compile a comprehensive body of data on man’s best friend.
Last year’s census – the first of its kind – saw 26,528 dog owners answer questions on behalf of nearly 37,000 dogs. It was a major success that delivered insightful results.
Among them were Ireland’s favourite dog names and breeds. Topping the charts were beloved names Bella, Daisy, Bailey, Luna and Charlie.
When it came to breeds, Jack Russells (10%), labradors (8%) and collies (7%) were most common – followed by cocker spaniels and golden retrievers.
The 2025 census – which opens on Tuesday – calls on dog owners to once again answer questions about their dogs.
The results also provide information on the challenges of dog ownership in Ireland – and how the charity may prevent them. Ireland’s current dog crisis is evident – there are over 2,000 owners seeking to rehome their dogs with the charity in 2025 so far.
It is a problem faced by many, as 49% of households own dogs.
The cost of living is making ownership harder and is forcing more households to make the difficult decision to rehome their dogs. Vets costs were the biggest financial struggle – experienced by 42% – while 11% said they struggle to afford essentials such as dog food.
The minimum annual amount spent on a dog is approximately €1,540, according to Dogs Trust Ireland. A further €10 to €35 per day is added to the bill for those working full-time and in need of daycare or dog-walking services.
Dogs are also being abandoned – and at a high rate. This includes a litter of eight-week-old Jack Russell terrier cross puppies which were saved after a member of the public watched their abandonment.
The 2024 census helped shape the charity’s campaigns. These included a call on the Government to appoint a junior minister for animal welfare. The charity also led to a petition to prevent blanket bans on pets in tenancy agreements.
