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It is often said of dogs that they look like their doting owners – but the resemblance is not just limited to appearance, as the pets act like them too.
There are links between some of the UK’s most popular breeds and the dominant personality traits shown by their owners, according to a study from The Kennel Club.
Those who have border terriers are likely to be charming, lively and exuberant, while Staffordshire bull terrier fans are trustworthy and the most affectionate.
Jack Russell owners, such as King Charles and the Queen Consort, are the most loyal and faithful, with 88 per cent of them displaying these traits.
Those with cocker spaniels, like the Prince and Princess of Wales, top the list for being the most curious, creative and family-orientated.
There are links between some of the UK’s most popular breeds and the dominant personality traits shown by their owners, says a study from The Kennel Club (stock image)
Jack Russell owners, such as King Charles and the Queen Consort, are the most loyal and faithful, with 88 per cent of them displaying these traits
Pooch owners who ranked the most highly on traits relating to agreeableness and extroversion, and came out on top overall across the Big Five, had Pomeranians, like Paris Hilton (pictured left). Golden Retrievers are known to be happy in temperament, and their owners, liked Sophie Turner and Joe Jonas (pictured right), ranked as the happiest and most positive compared to owners of other breeds
For the research, more than 1,500 current and past owners of 16 popular breeds were ranked against personality statements.
These revealed their levels of the Big Five personality traits: extroversion, openness, agreeableness, emotional stability and conscientiousness.
The researchers then could see which owners ranked most highly for certain personality traits when compared to those who own other breeds.
Owners of springer spaniels were found to be the most traditional, and were often reserved and punctual.
The results also showed that those who ranked highest within the ‘openness’ personality trait tended to have whippets.
This is because whippet owners reported that they enjoy new experiences, taking risks and have lots of hobbies.
Owners deemed the most emotionally stable, by stating they were positive and happy, had golden retrievers.
Miniature schnauzers were favoured by those who were conscientious, and liked being organised and sticking to the rules.
Pooch owners who ranked the most highly on traits relating to agreeableness and extroversion, and came out on top overall across the Big Five, had Pomeranians.
Staffordshire bull terriers have affectionate personalities, much like their owners who ranked as the most affectionate in teh study (stock image)
The research also revealed that there were similarities between owners and their breed of choice – indicating people unconsciously select dogs that reflect their own personalities.
Golden Retrievers are known to be happy in temperament, and their owners ranked as the happiest and most positive compared to owners of other breeds.
Staffordshire bull terriers also have affectionate personalities, much like their owners who ranked as the most affectionate.
Jack Russell Terriers are described as a friendly breed, and 84 per cent of their owners recognised this characteristic in themselves.
Those with cocker spaniels, like the Prince and Princess of Wales, pictured with dog Orla, top the list for being the most curious and family-orientated
But although dog-lovers may select breeds they feel an affinity with, they do not always choose pets suited to their lifestyle.
Nearly two-thirds, 63 per cent, said they chose their four-legged friend based on looks or following their heart rather than their head.
Half of these owners then admitted that they could not offer their pets everything they need.
However, for those who said they spent a long time researching and understanding their breed before buying, 88 per cent claim their dog is the perfect match for their personality and lifestyle.
Bill Lambert, for The Kennel Club, said: ‘It appears that we can often tell a lot about a person from the type of dog that they own.
‘Each breed has distinct characteristics, traits and care needs, which helps would-be owners understand more about whether they might be a good fit for them.
‘It is striking to see how many people unconsciously select dog breeds with personalities that match their own character, showing that birds of a feather really do flock together.’
The findings come ahead of the Discover Dogs event at ExCeL London next weekend, where prospective owners will be able to get to know up to 200 breeds.
How man has changed his best friend: Experts reveal what dogs USED to look
Shocking images have revealed what dogs used to look like, amid warnings that breeds like pugs and French bulldogs are being cruelly overbred for fashion.
From German Shepherds to Basset Hounds, many breeds have changed dramatically following years of selective breeding.
Boxers have been bred to have shorter faces with a larger mouth, while dachshunds’ backs and necks have stretched out and their legs have shrunk to a point that makes it difficult for them to manoeuvre over obstacles a few inches off of the ground.
Meanwhile, pugs have been bred to have squashed noses and big eyes, which puts them at high risk for a range of health conditions, including breathing, eye and skin disorders, according to a new study.
‘The extreme characteristics many owners find so appealing, such as squashed faces, big eyes and curly tails, are seriously compromising pugs’ health and welfare and often result in a lifetime of suffering,’ explained Justine Shotton, British Veterinary Association (BVA) President.
‘While these extreme, unhealthy characteristics remain, we will continue to strongly recommend potential owners do not buy brachycephalic breeds such as pugs.’
Pugs have been bred to have squashed noses and big eyes, while boxers have shorter faces with a larger mouth, and bull terriers have mutated to have a warped skull and thicker abdomen
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