CHARLIE THE CAVOODLE AUSTRALIA’S MOST POPULAR POOCH: HCF PET INSURANCE

  • Cavoodle, Maltese Cross and Labrador most insured dog breeds with HCF
  • Charlie, Bella and Ruby most popular dog names
  • People more likely to feel positive about insurance for pets (74%) than for own health (67%)  

MONDAY October 4, 2021

If you’re the owner of a Cavoodle named Charlie or a Labrador named Bella you’re in good company, according to the latest data released by HCF Pet Insurance on World Animal Day, which has revealed our nation’s favourite dog breeds and names.

Australia’s most popular dog breeds are the Cavoodle, Maltese Cross, and Labrador. The most popular dog names are Charlie, Bella and Ruby, although popularity of breeds and names differ across the states.

The data has been released alongside the results of a survey* conducted on behalf of HCF Australia, Australia’s largest not for profit health fund, which found that people were more likely to feel positive about having insurance for their pets (74%) than for their own health (67%).

HCF Chief Officer Product and Innovation Lorraine Thomas said it was no surprise dog owners were chosing human names for their canine companions given they’re often seen and treated as loved members of the family.

“We know that almost two thirds of Aussie homes have pets – in fact there are more pets in Australia than there are people, and almost 40 per cent of homes have at least one dog which is a trend on the rise now that we are spending more time working and learning from home,” Ms Thomas said.

“Their affection and loyalty make them a favourite furry companions. Dogs are also great for physical fitness and immune system development as well as being wonderful for our mental health.”  

The names people choose for their dogs also reflect a sense of humour and fondness for popular culture.

While not in the top 10, all of the characters from the popular Children’s TV Show Bluey feature as popular names (Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, Chilli, Trixie, Muffin, Lucky, Rusty); musical tastes are acknowledged with Elvis, Bowie, and Dolly Parton; and it appears superheros also frequent dog parks with names including Bruce Wayne, Lara Croft, Clarke Kent, The Phantom and Indiana Jones.

Ms Thomas said that just like human members of the family, it was important to plan for the unexpected when it comes to health.

“HCF Pet Insurance can help with up to 80 per cent of eligible vet expenses, which can make a huge difference to the family budget if your dog suddenly has an injury or gets sick and needs treatment.  

“We believe our furry friends deserve exceptional care, which is why we’re proud our approach to providing uncommon care was recognised with 2021 Mozo Experts Choice Award for Exceptional Quality Pet Insurance,” Ms Thomas said.

Australia’s most popular dog breeds: 

  1. Cavoodle 
  2. Maltese Cross 
  3. Labrador 
  4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier 
  5. Golden Retriever 
  6. Border Collie 
  7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 
  8. Labradoodle 
  9. Spoodle 
  10. German Shepherd 

Australia’s most popular dog names: 

  1. Charlie 
  2. Bella 
  3. Ruby 
  4. Max 
  5. Maggie 
  6. Lilly 
  7. Coco 
  8. Buddy 
  9. Toby 
  10. Oscar 

The most popular dog breeds by state:

  • WA – Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Maltese Cross, Labrador
  • Vic – Cavoodle, Maltese Cross, Labrador
  • Tas – Maltese Cross, Labradoodle, Kelpie Cross
  • SA – Maltese Cross, Golden Retriever, Cavoodle
  • QLD – Maltese Cross, Labrador, Cavoodle
  • NT – Jack Russell Terrier, Maltese Cross, Bull Arab Cross
  • NSW – Cavoodle, Maltese Cross, Labrador
  • ACT – Cavoodle, Labrador, Maltese Cross

The most popular dog names by state:

  • WA – Bella, Coco, Buddy
  • VIC – Max, Bella, Charlie
  • Tas – Bella, Lola, Ziggy
  • SA – Charlie, Bella, Molly
  • QLD – Bella, Charlie, Max
  • NT – Gus, Ruby, Bella
  • NSW – Charlie, Bella, Coco
  • ACT – Charlie, Bella, Ruby 

-ENDS-


Media enquiries to:

Rebecca Page, 
0439 130 400
rpage@hcf.com.au

*A nationally representative survey of 3061 Australians 18+, commissioned by HCF and conducted by 5th Dimension Research and Consulting, between the 15th December 2020 and the 5th January 2021. 

ABOUT HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers more than 1.7 million members with health and life insurance, and travel and pet insurance. To learn more about HCF Pet Insurance, go to: www.hcf.com.au/insurance/pet