Are Cats or Dogs More Popular in Australia? (2026 Stats & Facts)
Australians love their pets. Over half of all households have at least one companion animal. When it comes to dogs versus cats, which fluffy creature is more popular?
Dogs come out ahead in Australia. Estimates vary, but around 40% to 50% of homes have a canine resident. Approximately 25% to 30% have a cat. Learn more about cats, dogs, and other popular pets in Australia.
Australia’s Pandemic Pet Boom
Global lockdowns due to COVID-19 were difficult for everyone, and Australians were no exception. During the pandemic, at least 2 million homes welcomed a new pet.
For many, animals were a bright spot in an otherwise depressing time. Pets provide unconditional comfort and companionship to their owners.
What Is the Most Popular Pet in Australia?
Looking at the total number of animals, the two most popular pets in Australia are dogs and cats. Almost 50% of Australian households own a dog—that equals 6.4 million pet dogs!
What Are the Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia?
The Australian National Kennel Council tracks the number of registered litters born each year. Recent data shows that the Cavadoodle is the most popular dog in Australia. Miniature Dachshunds, Golden Retrievers, French Bulldogs, and Labrador Retrievers round out the top five.
Australia’s Top Dog Names
You’ll probably hear “Luna!” or “Milo!” the next time you’re at an off-leash dog park. Those are the top male and female dog names in the country.
Other popular boy dog names are Teddy, Charlie, Frankie, and Archie. And there are many girl dogs named Daisy, Bella, Coco, and Ruby.
What Are ‘Aussie Cats’?
If you’ve ever heard someone talk about an “Aussie cat,” they were likely referring to the Australian Mist Cat. The breed is relatively new, only dating back to the 1970s.
The name is appropriate, as Australian breeders developed the cat by mixing Abyssinians, Burmese, and Domestic Shorthairs. Australian Mists are sometimes also called Spotted Mists. The breed hasn’t gained much traction outside of the country, but some European and UK breeders have shown interest.
What Is an Australian Cobberdog?
The Cobberdog is a Labrador retriever/poodle mix originating in Australia. While other countries call the breed Labradoodle, there is a difference. Cobberdog breeders follow strict breeding and registration guidelines. The goal is to stay true to the breed’s initial purpose as a “hypoallergenic service dog.”
“Cobberdog” is a colloquial term meaning “dog friend.” The breed comes in three sizes and has a reputation for being both a family pet and a capable service dog.
Conclusion
The most popular pets in Australia are fish, followed by birds. Between dogs and cats, dogs come out on top. Around half of all homes have a dog, while just under one-third have a cat. Labrador retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the country. Top dog names include Archie, Buddy, and Charlie for males and Bella, Coco, and Daisy for females.
Two pet breeds native to the country are the Australian mist cat and the Australian cobberdog.
Featured Image Credit: Andrew S, Unsplash
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Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her whole life so it's no wonder she has dedicated her career to helping them through what she loves best: learning, writing, and sharing knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, a cat, and a human. With a degree in Education and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole wants to help pet parents and pets around the planet to live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
