Australia’s Most Popular Dog Breeds by State in 2024
Australia’s dog obsession is no secret, but it turns out each region has its own favourite breeds that suit the local vibe perfectly. Whether it’s Labradors chilling at beachside barbies, Border Collies outsmarting everyone on bush trails, or Cavoodles taking over inner-city cafes, our dog choices say a lot about where we live and how we live.
Wondering which dogs are stealing the spotlight from coast to coast in 2024? We’re breaking down the most popular dog breeds in Australia by state to show why each one has found a perfect place to call home. Whether you’re a city dweller or love the country, there’s a loyal mate out there that’s just right for you.
New South Wales
Cavoodle: Basically Bondi’s unofficial mascot—small, fluffy, and happy to get papped at every coastal cafe.
Labrador Retriever: A Lab’s ideal weekend? A backyard BBQ where they can “accidentally” score a sausage or two.
Border Collie: These smart cookies are born for Blue Mountains hikes, with enough energy to outlast even the keenest bushwalker.
Dachshund: Strutting around Surry Hills with all the confidence of a CEO, despite needing a boost to reach most chairs.
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Queensland
Border Collie: The ultimate beach buddy, happily chasing waves at Noosa like it’s a full-time job.
Labrador Retriever: Thinks every creek or pool is their own personal water park—just try keeping them dry.
Cavoodle: Equally happy at a river cafe or snoozing through brunch in the West End; small dog, big charm.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier: They’ve got the loyalty of your oldest mate and the cuddliness of a marshmallow—Queensland’s favourite combo.
Best joint supplement for Border Collies on the go: 4Cyte Canine
Victoria
Labrador Retriever: The dog of choice for Melbourne families; they’re always ready for a walk around the Yarra or a cuddle on the couch.
Cavoodle: These little fluffballs have Fitzroy’s coffee culture down—small enough for any tote bag, and cooler than most humans.
Golden Retriever: Happy to spend a lazy day at the Botanic Gardens or tag along to the Yarra Valley wineries—easy-going vibes all the way.
Border Collie: Perfect for active types who need a jogging buddy that won’t quit. They’ve got the energy of a full AFL team.
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South Australia
Labrador Retriever: Adelaide’s backyard BBQ king; Labs are always sniffing out the next snag with single-minded focus.
Border Collie: Ideal for the wide-open spaces of SA’s countryside; they’re loyal, clever, and can herd just about anything—including kids.
Golden Retriever: These friendly, laid-back pups are all about beach days, greeting everyone like old mates.
Kelpie: The unofficial mascot of rural SA farms, known for their smarts and stamina that could give any farmer a run for their money.
Western Australia
Labrador Retriever: Beach day? Count them in. These Labs are Freo’s sandy-pawed superstars, loving every splash.
Cavoodle: You’ll find them hopping around Subiaco’s cafes, winning over strangers with their big eyes and small ego.
Golden Retriever: The ultimate chilled-out beach bums, always wagging their tails at Cottesloe, covered in a mix of sand and love.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Tough on the outside, soft on the inside—Staffies fit perfectly with WA’s rugged landscapes and laid-back folks.
Northern Territory
Medium Mixed Breed: No-fuss, all love; they’re the Territory’s bushwise pups, built to handle everything from hot days to muddy trails.
Border Collie: Energy to burn and always ready for a new adventure, these dogs are Darwin’s top sidekicks for an outdoor lifestyle.
Dachshund: Tiny but mighty, these sausage dogs handle the humidity with style, often spotted sunbathing with a whole lot of attitude.
Cavoodle: Perfect for NT’s urban spots, these fluffballs bring a little extra cuteness indoors when the heat’s too much outside.
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Australian Capital Territory
Cavoodle: They’re practically Canberra’s VIPs, a favourite among families and ideal for a cozy snuggle on a cold night.
Labrador Retriever: Loyal and low-maintenance, Labs are happy as can be on a lap around Lake Burley Griffin, stopping for snacks along the way.
Border Collie: In Canberra, they’re the brainiacs of the dog park, zipping around herding everything with four legs (or even two).
Kelpie: The ultimate trail buddies, Kelpies know every nook and cranny of Tidbinbilla and are always game for more.
Tasmania
Labrador Retriever: These water-loving champs are happiest splashing in Tassie’s rivers or diving into the nearest creek they can find.
Border Collie: Always ready for an adventure, these pups could give you a run for your money on Tassie’s trails—they know every turn.
Cavoodle: Small enough for Hobart’s compact homes but with plenty of fluff to keep things cozy on a chilly morning.
Golden Retriever: The friendliest walkers at Salamanca; they’re here for the scenery and a pat from every passerby.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s dog breed preferences might vary from state to state, but one thing’s certain—there’s no shortage of love for our four-legged mates. From the cities to the outback, each breed brings a unique spark to Aussie life. So, if you’re looking for the perfect pup, take a cue from your fellow Aussies and find a breed that matches both your lifestyle and location. Whether it’s a dog that thrives on adventure or a laid-back companion, there’s a reason these breeds have won hearts across the country in 2024!
