Dog lovers take their lead from Kate

HER outfits send shoppers into a tailspin as they rush to imitate her style – and now, royal-watchers are also looking to copy the Duchess of Cambridge’s choice of dog.

Interest in cocker spaniels has increased since Kate welcomed puppy Lupo into the home she shares with the duke, the Kennel Club said yesterday.

The couple got the dog through a family connection and his name remained a secret until the duchess revealed it on a visit to a school last month.

Searches for cocker spaniels on the Kennel Club’s Find a Puppy service increased by almost 50 per cent in January and February, compared with November and December last year.

However, the club, which offers owners information and advice on dog welfare, health, training and breeding, warned people not to be influenced by the royal choice of dog when selecting a breed for their family pet.

It instead recommended learning about the animal’s characteristics and care required before choosing.

Kennel Club secretary Caroline Kisko said: “Kate and William have chosen a working line from the cocker spaniel breed, which needs lots of attention and activity and so may not be suitable for all people.”