Ireland’s Favourite Dog Names and Breeds Revealed as Dogs Trust Launches 2025 Census

Today Dogs Trust Ireland is launching Ireland’s Dog Census 2025. For the second year in a row, the charity is aiming to ‘count every dog, so every dog counts’. Dogs Trust is asking members of the public, whether they own a dog or not, to complete the survey to help the charity gain a deeper understanding of what Ireland’s dogs, and their owners, need most. 

Last year, the first-ever dog census was completed by over 26,000 people, who shared details on nearly 37,000 dogs. This information uncovered a wealth of insights, from the top dog names and breeds to issues faced by dog owners and dog lovers across the country. The findings helped to shape the charity’s campaigns over the past year, including their call for a Junior Minister for Animal Welfare, and a petition to prevent blanket bans on pets in tenancy agreements. Dogs Trust hopes to build upon the success of last year’s census, so they can continue to help improve the lives of dogs and the people who love them.  

Among the top findings from Census 2024 were Ireland’s favourite dog names, with Bella, Daisy, Bailey, Luna and Charlie all vying for ‘top dog’ status in the nation’s hearts! When it came to breeds, Jack Russells (10%), Labradors (8%) and Collies (7%) led the way, though every four-legged friend is a top dog in their own right, and there was a lot of love for multiple breeds and crossbreeds too. A full report of the 2024 results is now available on the charity’s website. 

But while these findings shine a light on the brighter side of our nation’s love for dogs, the census also plays a vital role in helping Dogs Trust understand and respond to the challenges they face. So far in 2025, the charity has been contacted by over 2,000 dog owners seeking to surrender their dogs into their care. On top of this, dogs are still being abandoned at an alarming rate. Recently, a litter of 8-week-old Jack Russell Terrier cross puppies came into the charity's care following a member of the public witnessing them being abandoned. Dogs Trust aptly named each of the adorable puppies Alfie, Bailey, Bella, Buddy, and Charlie, after some of the top dog names that were revealed in today’s results from Census 2024. Thankfully, all of the puppies have now been rehomed; however, things could have turned out differently if they hadn’t been found when they were. 

The Census 2024 results report also revealed that the cost-of-living struggles are making life difficult for dog owners. Veterinary care is the biggest financial struggle, with 42% of owners finding it challenging, while 11% of dog owners admitted they struggle to pay for food for their dog. Additionally, one of the biggest dog welfare concerns for those who completed the census was irresponsible breeding. However, despite this concern, just two in five people felt they would be able to tell the difference between a licensed and an illegal breeder. These findings highlight the ongoing need for advocacy and education around responsible dog ownership and breeding, and will help Dogs Trust to shape its future services and advice.   

Paulina Padlo, Communications Manager, Dogs Trust Ireland, says: “Last year’s Census taught us a great deal, but the needs of Ireland’s dogs are constantly evolving. That’s why we’re calling on the public once again to make their voices heard. By taking part in the 2025 Dog Census, you’ll help us deepen our understanding of the challenges faced by dogs and the people who love them. Whether it’s shaping policy, supporting struggling owners, or helping Dogs Trust develop and improve its services so more dogs can live life to the full, your input can make a real difference.” 

Visit dogstrust.ie/census to have your say and help Dogs Trust ‘count every dog, so every dog counts’.