Popular breeds of cats and dogs in Australia

jjdrer

In warm weather make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water preferably in buckets or other deep containers If they are outside animals or the odd one that refuses to stay inside in hot weather make sure you have water in several places out of the sun if possible. To keep it cold put ice in it. You can also partially fill well washed milk containers with water and freeze if your pet isn't keen on ordinary ice.

Jordan3255

I reckon kelpies are pretty common and popular

sherie333

Bad reputation of certain breads

Jools78

Staffys are very popular. I have one who is very naughty and cheeky

Lucy3254

I think a very popular dog breed in Australia is a cavoodle (cavalier cross with a poodle).

Rojan3255

Unique challenges for Aussie pet owners:

Hot Summers: The scorching Aussie sun can be tough on pets. Owners must provide shade and water and limit outdoor play during peak heat.
Wildlife Woes: Australia's wildlife, like snakes and spiders, can be risky for pets. Owners need to protect their furry friends from these critters.
Pesky Parasites: Aussie pets face specific parasites and diseases. Regular vet visits and tick/flea control are a must.
Rabies Rules: Australia is rabies-free, so pet imports have strict quarantine rules. Be ready if you plan to bring your pet Down Under.
Bushfire Alert: Bushfires are a danger. Have a plan to keep your pets safe during fire seasons.
Remote Living: Some Aussies live far from vet care or pet supplies, making pet care trickier.
Legalities: Follow local pet rules, from microchips to leash laws, which can vary.
Australia's a pet paradise, but it has its quirks!

Jools78

Unique challenges for Aussie pet owners:

Hot Summers: The scorching Aussie sun can be tough on pets. Owners must provide shade and water and limit outdoor play during peak...

Not to mention cane toads, I have had several episodes where my dogs have picked them up in their mouths and been sprayed

dicky a

Daughter # 1 has a 2 year cavoodle .....it is m=now part of our family despite the fact sh mvd out yars ago. Love the dog. Highly enthuiastic ..but a handful. Males need to be neutered asap !

sheza54

At the moment it is the sausage dog.

Genie11

Caring for pets can be very costly in Australia. Sadly, the honeymoon period, after acquiring a pet, can soon be replaced with nonchalance bordering on neglect as the novelty begins to wear off. The mismatch between owner and pet can be startling to see as pet seekers satisfy a misguided notion that a particular animal or breed would be right for them!!! Unfortunately many people go into pet ownership with very little idea of the commitment required, and necessary, to the care of the animal.

Alixxx

Ragdoll X British Shorthair = Fun loving chilled cats.
Great family cats. Very patience with young kids but also love to play. We have been fortunate to have healthy cats. So far, we have only had to take our two cats to the Vet once a year but that is still quite expensive.

Antie29

Stop buying a lie. Oodle breeds are cross breeds marketed to people by puppy farmers. Go pure breed via a registered and ethical breeder or buy your cross breed from the pound or ŕescue group.

Patria

We had our Labrador Ollie for 15 years, he gave us loyalty and lots of good memories. Labs are amazing dogs, but always hungry. In later life they get a lot of hip troubles.....

GreenLego

Here is the list of popular dog breeds in QLD:

https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/which-dog-is-the-most-popular-in-brisbane-search-for-your-postcode-s-top-pooch-20230802-p5dta4.html

I assume that the list would be similar across all of Australia.

I see so many owners neglect their cats. I see half a dozen feral cats just in my street. Because cats aren't registered, people just let them breed like crazy and abandon them.

April31999741

I am unsure as to popular breeds of cats but I know that border collies are becoming increasingly popular. I believe a challenge with this is that new owners are not aware of their energy and mental stimulations and hence they don't get the care they need to thrive.

funnysag

Challenges may be keeping them safe. It’s important to have a secure yard or large enclosure.

BradH

Bullmastiff is my favorite breed however I would only get a rescue dog from a shelter.

jjdrer

The most popular dogs for Guide Dogs and Service Dogs are Labradors or Golden Retrievers. Being a Puppy Educator is very rewarding know that the dog is going to "care" for a special person. A reminder to people if it is wearing a special coat or harness please do not touch it. If it has its special gear on it is working and must not be distracted.

Natasa

I think Daschunds have become super popular, however they can be difficult to care for in their old age as the breed is prone to developing back problems. Hence why you see so many of them with the little wheelchair attached to them in their old age. Something to consider when purchasing a Daschund as they can become expensive to care for in their old age.

Toze

We have a very small breeding stock in Australia, and especially in more isolated states like WA. This leads to poor genetics and unfortunately many of our breeds are susceptible to health problems.

Even with popular breeds like Golden Retrievers the high cost isn’t an indication of good quality or health.

If looking for a specific breed, research the origins and seek out breeders who import regularly from interstate or better yet, overseas.

J_V

People need to be more mindful of what they feed their pets.
Supermarkets have a mix of horrifically bad (eg. Baxters) and actually quite decent (eg. Applaws).
Don’t go blindly picking something up from the shelf, DYOR.
A great place to start is petfoodreviews.com.au .
I currently feed my two Lifewise dry food in the mornings and Prime100 rolls for dinner.
Cannot speak highly enough of these brands.

Gail32128337

I can't believe how much puppy's are to buy these days, even x breeds.
And the cost of vet bills, makes it hard for some people to welcome a dog into the family.

khal123

quality is one of the biggest challenges when choosing type of food for pet

drummerschick

I have a Tenterfield Terrier who is now a senior and the biggest challenge, being an older person on a pension, is affording vet bills. His name is Connor and he has his nails trimmed every couple of months (I can't do it myself) and then he has regular visits for checkups and innoculations as well as worming tablets and heartworm tablets. I love him dearly and wouldn't skimp on his care but I must say that when he crosses the Rainbow Bridge (I will miss him terribly) I will have to think twice about getting another pet. I simply can't afford it.

Taj

Beagle’s. Great temperament, great with the kids and a loyal part of the family pack 👍

defonz

Either cats or dogs!

elemays

I think that loneliness is a big problem because owners are often out all day and their dogs are left alone for too long.

Paul3254

Cats not so much but A dog , Groodle is very popular and easy to train.

beavis

We have always been cat lovers and our two most recent fur babies have been a beautiful Brown Burmese and a Silver Blue Abyssinian. Unfortunately we lost are darling Burmese Bogart last year at the age of 15 to a number of issues including kidney disease and heart failure. As we have always had Pet Insurance which I feel is very necessary, we were able to give him the best possible treatment and care right to the end. Our Abby boy Magee was coincidentally born on the same day as Bogart and he has just celebrated his 16th birthday, We almost lost him late last year to a bile duct blockage but are every so grateful to some wonderful specialists who researched his rare condition and he is now on daily medication which allows him a pretty normal life. Once again, thanks to pet insurance we were able to give him this specialist care without any hesitation and to date have spent over $14k on his care but have manged to receive around $9k back from pet insurance. I cannot ever see us not having a cat in the house and we also often look after our daughter's two cats and our son's one cat when they go away. My husband has built the most amazing cat run in our backyard with a tunnel from the house so that cats are always safe from predators but still enjoy being outside.

berylr

Love dogs although we dont have one we regularly look after family and friends dogs as required. Firstly my favourite was Beagle but now a British Cocker Spaniel has also won my heart. Would be better if he didnt like chasing my chooks though

wendel

I think they can be great company, especially for children to grow up with and for older people as companions. Although it can be tough when the dogs are pups as they can get into mischief, kittens are cute, cuddly and playful. So it does depend on where you live, if you live in a safe environment to keep dogs and cats. There are so many abandoned pets these days, people don't realise the expense and time you need to have one. So think very carefully before you get one, and if you do decide, think about adopting one.

Paul3254

Pets are an extension of our inner self and allows us to relax. Iam a dog person and a lot of joy from there companionship !

Deborah32174093

Japanese Spitz and Ragdoll cats.
High vet fees

angry mum

Cavoodles are such a cute friendly little dog. Some people buy them not realising they are very high maintenance.

Sil sil

I've seen loads of cavoodles and mixed breeds. For some reason the higher the cost the more popular. I think a lot of dogs are living indoors and I've heard so many on anxiety medication. Sounds like they struggle being alone, hence increased popularity and costs on dog care and walks etc. Huge investment with vet bills, special foods, allergies and medication...poor dogs.

angry mum

I've seen loads of cavoodles and mixed breeds. For some reason the higher the cost the more popular. I think a lot of dogs are living indoors and I've heard so many on anxiety medication. Sounds...

I think the price of cavoodles skyrocketed when Covid arrived. They are great companion little dogs and plenty of people started working from home. They don't all suffer from anxiety. Depends on how they are trained really. I have a Cavoodle and he follows me around everywhere at home. I do have the luxury of being home with him most of the time. He is mainly an indoor dog but has a great sized back yard to go crazy in too. If I'm outside, he is outside. If I'm inside he follows. He's my little shadow. If I leave the house for a couple of hours, he is fine inside and sleeps. I would never leave him outside if I'm not home, especially with all the pets being stolen lately. Also there is always the risk of snake bites, wasps etc. He doesn't suffer anxiety as he knows I'll be back. They can be very time consuming. The prices of these little ones are starting to slow down now but I do know of a couple of people who purchased 2 cavoodles last year and paid $8,000 for each dog. Best little cross breed around but very high maintenance dogs for grooming etc.

Ben32254052

cavoodle, labradoodle, kelpy, labrador, staffy

annie

Since I was a little girl my family have always had Boxers dogs.Boxer dogs are very good with children and very loyal to families.

nirak15

My cat died recently and I want to get a new cat. I’d like one that is more hypoallergenic but I’ve been told some breeds have health problems. Does anyone recommend a Russian Blue?

CatTracey

My cat died recently and I want to get a new cat. I’d like one that is more hypoallergenic but I’ve been told some breeds have health problems. Does anyone recommend a Russian Blue?

If you are looking for a low allergy cat I would recommend a Devon or Cornish Rex, or if you have the time and commitment for care& grooming, a Sphynx.

Mezcass

We have a Broder Collie and a Ragdoll and my biggest challenge is coat care and roaming hair balls

wezo

19 years ago i found a tiny pure white kitten at our factory and he is still with us,i dont know his breed but has a thick pure white coat and is large in size,every one in our area loves him as he sits out on the footpath and talks to everyone even their dogs,anyone knoe what breed he may be,

CatTracey

19 years ago i found a tiny pure white kitten at our factory and he is still with us,i dont know his breed but has a thick pure white coat and is large in size,every one in our area loves him as he...

Hi Wezo, He would be a domestic shorthair. Without knowing his parentage you really can't say what breed he may have in him.

rawa32266195

In Australia, there are several popular breeds of cats and dogs.

Popular Cat Breeds in Australia include
1. Domestic Shorthair: This is the most common cat breed in Australia, often known as a mixed-breed or moggie.
2. Ragdoll: Known for their docile temperament and striking blue eyes, Ragdolls are popular pets in Australia.
3. Siamese: These cats are renowned for their striking blue eyes, colorpoint coat patterns, and vocal nature.

Popular Dog Breeds in Australia include
1. Labrador Retriever: Labradors are one of the most popular dog breeds in Australia due to their friendly nature and versatility.
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier: These strong and muscular dogs are popular pets in Australia, known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.
3. Border Collie: Known for their intelligence and herding abilities, Border Collies are popular working dogs as well as family pets.

When it comes to caring for pets in Australia, there are a few unique challenges that pet owners may face like
- Pest Control: Australia is known for its unique wildlife, including venomous snakes, spiders, and ticks. Pet owners must be vigilant about protecting their pets from these pests through regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative treatments.
- Wildlife Encounters: Australia has a diverse range of native wildlife, some of which can pose a threat to pets. It is important for pet owners to supervise their animals and keep them away from potentially dangerous encounters with snakes, kangaroos, or other wildlife.
- Exercise and Sun Protection: Australia's outdoor lifestyle encourages pet owners to engage in regular exercise with their pets. However, owners need to ensure that their pets have access to shade, fresh water, and sun protection to prevent heatstroke and sunburn.

It's important for pet owners in Australia to stay informed about these challenges and provide appropriate care to ensure the health and well-being of their furry friends.

cupcake40au

I love my ragdoll cat

ptrdhll

My family are in the the process of adopting a retired Greyhound, to give them a forever home and loving family environment.

Teneal

Cavoodles seem to be the most popular dog in the past few years. I think the biggest challenge is the cost of unplanned vet care.

angry mum

Cavoodles seem to be the most popular dog in the past few years. I think the biggest challenge is the cost of unplanned vet care.

Agree. Vet care is way overpriced as is any form of pet insurance.

Harshanie 30779333

Popular cat breed is Rag Doll and unique challenge is Veterinary charges

Ellie32290128

I know toy poodles are becoming very popular

Hes

In process of moving interstate.Had an old cat at my current home. Difficult to decide what to do with it.Will leave it with others close to the family but am considering transport on a plane. Need a fit to travel certificate.Unsure if the cat will adjust and may be better leaving it with close family here.

GarryM

We have two wonderful Labradoodles.
One works as a therapy dog. Beautiful animals and great companions.

Alixxx

Current have two ginger British Shorthair X Ragdolls = wonderful companions

monicag8

Tabby cat is very popular, Maine coon, Sphynx, Tonkinese, Persian etc. For dogs shitzu, Kelpie, Pomeranian, poodle, Begal, Alsatian, sausage dog, Australian cattle dog, etc

John31614708

Labrador, Chiwauwau, kelpie,terriers.
Problem.
Grooming, bathing , insects and pest. Good nutrition.

Jessica32

We have border collies which I have seen become quite popular.
A challenge is definitely the physical and mental exercise they require.

Bubblegum345

We have border collies which I have seen become quite popular.
A challenge is definitely the physical and mental exercise they require.

Yep

Bigbear

I enjoy my cats and dogs and being a pet owner, they have a lot of health benefits for me.
Being a pet owner makes me active and makes my life more balanced, this in turn keeps me grounded and helps me not to sweat the small stuff.
So overall, owning a pet brings joy into my life, the emotions and benefits that pet-ownership offers me personally is that life is more spontaneous by having a pet.
All in all, emotionally, pets make us better humans . . . and as better humans we want to make sure we’re doing the right thing by our pets.

capfantastic

If I lived on my own I would buy a cat. I want a docile and affectionate breed. I enjoy to stroke them and have them curl up to sleep on my lap. I remember my childhood kitten was a Tabby. She was white with black socks and some black pigmentation around the eyes. I loved my pussy.

MazzyJ

I think with cats if it meows and purrs it's popular. Vet costs and lately food costs are a huge problem.
I think French Bull dogs are popular. Issues are the price even for one surrendered (I call secondhand)
I wanted a small dog 8 years ago and looked at pounds/dog rescue places. They wanted between $600- $2,000 for them upto 6 years old. I couldn't afford it. I ended up with 2 kitties

MRfuzzy

I love the mix breeds like Border Collie x Kelpie as they are so intelligent and easy to train to do things for you for a reward and are great companions. They love to have a big yard to run in and ours also loves his toys, stuffed animals which he loves to put holes in so they need to be sewn up all the time.

Charlottekay62

Cat owner chiming in. Every breed of cat has its special charm, but for me, I'm a lover of Bengals. They're a unique and rare breed, only recently created, that look more like the wild Leopard Cat their original domestic ancestor was mated with than a regular breed. They are roughly twice the size of a domestic cat, and are quite a handle to raise. Not for the faint-hearted! And ideally, they need a good brisk trot around the block each day to keep them in shape.

Cat owners too have hassles over renting places, and I've yet to find a place to go on holidays with them. The worst though is that here in Australia the feral cat problem has prejudiced people against all cats, and they are not safe from the neighbours in regional areas.

dee

Clipping there toe nails is always a challenge, chihuahua a are gorgeous breed

pauline50

Staffy is the most popular dog breed we’re I live , challenges are trying to rent with a dog, paying for vet bills,

Dhruvi06

Labrador

Annarrjj

Border collies, they have lots of energy so it’s hard so they need to be taken out a lot to expend it

Charlottekay62

Border collies, they have lots of energy so it’s hard so they need to be taken out a lot to expend it

I grew up with Border Collies. They are super good with kids!

Harshanie 30779333

Popular breed of cats are Ragdolls and major challenge is veterinary fees

jtmorri

A challenge with cats is keeping them indoors so they don't eat wildlife. Most people have a caged off area for their cats these days. For dogs grass seeds are a real issue when they get in their skin and cause infection. Many dogs get them in their feet and start limping. Other than that you must keep your cat and dog out of the sun and ensure they have enough water so they don't dehydrate in summer.
Cat breeds are generally tabby and people seem to like burmese and siamese cats. For dogs there are many varieties depending on people's living quarters, yard and activities from small to large and then you have working farm dogs like kelpies and blue heelers.

Alyssa32236711

Good point on Grass Seeds, they cause our German Shepherd no end of skin issues and can be deadly when causing infection.

Yeah, we had Burnes Mountain dogs which had problems with grass seeds. We currently have a Cavoodle that hasn't experienced these same issues. I wonder if it might be more of an issue for larger breeds?

techmark

A challenge with cats is keeping them indoors so they don't eat wildlife. Most people have a caged off area for their cats these days. For dogs grass seeds are a real issue when they get in their...

Good point on Grass Seeds, they cause our German Shepherd no end of skin issues and can be deadly when causing infection.

ladylucy666

I don't anything about cats.
But must people I know have rescue mutts. We've all got very faithful friendly rescues.
The few people we know with breeds seem to be dachshunds or oodles

Tragk

Shorthair domestic cat.

I'd say the main challenge is keeping them safe and protecting them from themselves. Some animals are fairly intelligent, but others aren't, and they don't have any kind of road sense the way humans do.

annie

we own a boxer dog.Great with kids and really good dogs to have

Leanne6

Poodle mixes are popular as they don't tend to shed as much.
Groodles, ladradoodles etc.
Staffies are a main stay in Aussie life. Border Collies are always popular as are rescue mixes of all types.
As for cats, ragdolls and Maine coons are the popular cat breeds.
Moggies and rescues are the usual choice for most people due to costs of pure breeds.
As for challenges.
Cost.
The initial cost of a pet is too much for many people.
Back yard breeders who charge similar costs to pure bred registered breeders without the confidence and extras you get from a registered breeders.
If you buy from a breeder you tend to get a pet that has had all its needles, worming, vet check, cost of desexing included or discounted, return to breeder clause if medical issues show up that are hereditary etc.
A back yard breeder will often not include these things yet charge similar prices. This drives up the registered pet price and the cycle continues.
Cost of feed, cost for vets, training etc has also all raised.
This can cause pet owners to put off getting vet care etc for their pets due to cost.
The rental crisis has meant that many pets are being sent to rescues as the owners can't find anywhere to live with their pets.
I would personally be homeless rather than give up my pets, but I don't have kids and would imagine I would think differently if I did.
As always the risk of cats roaming and killing natural wildlife is ongoing.
Many owners don't want to curb their cats natural urge to roam and let their pets fo as they like.
My cats have always been inside cats with outdoor enclosures. If we choose to own them, we must do our best to protect wildlife

funnysag

Cat food has more doubled in price for some items.

gnoelj

Agree with below. Any sort of oodle mix is en vogue at the moment

Magbags

I see lots of people with staffies, personally not my type of dog but I feel that they are pretty popular. The trouble with most pets is that they shed all over the house!

Razorfish

Everyone seems to have some kind of poodle these days. Including us! We love our labradoodle - such a great family dog and doesn't shed so no mess in the house. So I don't think you can beat a poodle of some sort. As for cats not sure but I love cat videos of all the crazy stuff they do.

ronles

ragdoll cats are very popular. people prefer dogs that have been crossed with a poodle.