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The survey showed that the Labrador Retriever is the favourite breed across England, Ireland and Scotland, with only the Welsh preferring the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

A long-running and well-loved ad campaign for toilet paper brand Andrex featuring a cute Labrador puppy may have helped cement the place of the breed in the nation's heart.

"The Labrador Retriever has always been a firm family favourite, so it's not surprising it topped the poll," said Brock Abreu, manager for Frontline Spot On , flea and tick protection which commissioned the survey.

Border Collies received the third most votes from the 2,000 dog-lovers surveyed, followed by Yorkshire Terriers and Boxers.

Brits are also barking mad for Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bulldogs and West Highland White Terriers, which all made the top 10.