We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
If you are looking for a dog that will happily play with adults, children and other dogs for hours on end, there are particular breeds that are well-known for never tiring of games.
Here are the 13 most playful breeds of dog.
9. Jack Russell Terrier
One of the highest-energy dog breeds, the Jack Russell Terrier has never met a game that it doesn't love. Anything that involves jumping, running and swimming will keep them happy. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Portuguese Water Dog
If you are looking for a playing companion for somebody with allergies, the Portuguese Water Dog ticks all the boxes. With a hypoallergenic coat they are unlikely to make you sneeze, but are full of energy and enjoy capering with all ages. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Border Collie
Being the world's most intelligent dog means that the Border Collie's brain is constantly active and looking for something to do. Plenty of play is essential to the wellbeing of this inquisitive breed. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, as the name makes clear, is another dog bred to herd livestock. This task is pretty much a big game so, unless you have a flock of sheep in your back garden, their dayjob will be replaced by hours of play. | Canva/Getty Images