Top 10 Most Popular Gun Dog Breeds in the UK (2025)

Gun dogs are a fascinating group of breeds historically bred to assist hunters in finding, flushing out, and retrieving prey. Today, many of these breeds have made a smooth transition from working partners to beloved family pets across the UK, admired for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.

In the UK, gun dogs remain popular both in rural working roles and as cherished companions. At Pets4Homes, which hosts more dog sale adverts than any other UK platform, we can share data-backed insights into the top gun dog breeds sought after by UK dog lovers in 2025.

This article reveals the ten most popular gun dog breeds in the UK today, exploring their unique characteristics, reasons for their enduring appeal, and estimated purchase costs, all based on the latest trends and marketplace data.

What Is a Gun Dog?

Gun dogs are breeds originally developed to assist hunters during shooting parties by using their skills to locate, point to, flush out, or retrieve game. These breeds include various types, such as pointers, retrievers, spaniels, and setters, each with unique aptitudes reflecting their working heritage.

Gun dogs are generally highly energetic, intelligent, and sociable. They thrive with regular exercise, mental challenges, and companionship. Many also have an affinity for water and love swimming.

The UK Kennel Club groups these breeds together based on their shared functional role, though individual breeds may differ significantly in personality, sized, and care requirements.

How Is Popularity Measured?

The popularity ranking presented here is based on recent UK advertisement data, reflecting the number of listings for gun dog puppies and adults for sale on Pets4Homes. While not exhaustive, this data offers an accurate snapshot of current breed demand and availability.

Prices mentioned reflect general market averages for 2024-2025 and serve as a guide. Responsible breeders with health testing and Kennel Club registration typically command prices at the higher end of the range.

Top 10 Most Popular Gun Dog Breeds in the UK in 2025

10. American Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel is a charming, medium-sized spaniel known for its affectionate personality and beautiful long coat. While less common than its English cousin, it retains strong appeal for families seeking an energetic and intelligent gun dog breed.

• The breed requires daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviours.
• Regular grooming is essential due to their thick, long coats that shed considerably.
• Average prices range around £750-£850 depending on pedigree status and breeder.
• American Cockers make excellent active family pets and are good with children.

9. German Wirehaired Pointer

This large, robust pointer breed combines striking wiry coat features with a spirited, intelligent nature. German Wirehaired Pointers demand significant exercise and mental tasks and appreciate having a purpose.

• They require experienced owners due to their intelligence and energy.
• Less grooming intensive than long-haired breeds and shed minimally.
• Average 2025 prices are approximately £600-£750.
• Good with children but need room to run and play.

8. Pointer

Known as English Pointer outside the UK, the pointer is a lean, graceful hunting dog famed for its pointing stance and endurance. It is a medium-sized, highly trainable breed, popular among families and hunters alike.

• Pointers need near-constant activity and mental engagement.
• Their short coat requires minimal grooming.
• Average prices typically lie between £600 and £800.
• They form strong bonds and are excellent companions for active families.

7. German Shorthaired Pointer

A popular medium-sized pointer breed in the UK, the German Shorthaired Pointer combines a sleek coat with a lively, eager-to-please temperament. Great for versatile dog owners who can provide ample exercise.

• Shedding is heavy, requiring regular cleaning though grooming demands are low.
• This breed thrives with dedicated mental and physical exercise regimes.
• Typical costs range from £700 to £850 for well-bred pups.
• They are highly social and flourish in active family environments.

6. Weimaraner

With a distinctive steely-grey coat, the Weimaraner is a large, athletic pointer breed known for its loyalty and intelligence. This breed needs strong leadership and plenty of exercise.

• They have high energy levels that require multiple hours of daily activity.
• Coat maintenance is minimal but regular exercise and mental stimulation are vital.
• Prices usually range from £850 to over £1,000 for pedigreed examples.
• Best suited for owners experienced with lively, intelligent breeds.

5. Hungarian Vizsla

The Hungarian Vizsla is a sleek, elegant pointer breed prized for its affectionate nature and athleticism. It has gained huge popularity in the UK in recent years.

• Known for forming strong bonds and being highly trainable, but requires consistent exercise and socialisation.
• Short coat means low grooming effort.
• Prices run from about £800 to over £1,000 for quality puppies.
• Suitable for families who enjoy an active canine companion.

4. Golden Retriever

One of the UK's most beloved breeds, the Golden Retriever is friendly, reliable, and highly trainable. Known for its role as a family pet and assistance dog, it has evergreen popularity.

• Medium to large size with a luxurious golden coat that needs regular grooming.
• This breed thrives on social interaction, exercise, and mental stimulation.
• Average purchase prices are around £1,000 to £1,500.
• Exceptional with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs.

3. English Springer Spaniel

With a rich history as a hunting and flushing gun dog, the English Springer Spaniel is energetic, intelligent, and affectionate. It suits active households that can provide plenty of exercise.

• Requires regular grooming particularly around ears and paws to maintain coat health.
• They are social dogs and benefit from early training and socialisation.
• Typical prices range from £800 to £1,200.
• Excellent family dogs with lively, friendly personalities.

2. Labrador Retriever

Dominating UK dog popularity charts, the Labrador Retriever is a friendly, gentle, and highly trainable breed. Their versatility extends to working roles and wonderful family companions.

• Moderate grooming needs but high exercise requirements.
• Known for their patient and friendly nature with children and adults alike.
• Prices commonly fall between £800 and £1,500.
• Excellent for first-time owners, therapy work, and obedience.

1. English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is the UK’s best-loved gun dog breed, cherished for its cheerful disposition and adaptability. It’s suited to a broad spectrum of households, from active families to individuals.

• The breed requires daily exercise and mental engagement to flourish.
• Coat grooming is needed regularly to prevent matting and maintain health.
• Prices tend to range from £700 to £1,200 depending on lineage.
• The breed is known for being affectionate, sociable, and great with children.

Why Are Gun Dog Breeds So Popular as Family Pets?

The enduring appeal of gun dog breeds in the UK comes down to their friendly temperaments, intelligence, and versatility. They are deeply loyal, trainable, and thrive in homes where they receive plentiful exercise and mental stimulation.

Many of these breeds excel not only as working dogs but also as therapy, assistance, and family companions, reflecting their balanced natures and adaptability.

Prospective owners should carefully consider a dog’s exercise needs and provide a consistent, loving home with regular grooming and health care to ensure a happy, healthy pet.

Responsible Buying and Ownership

When looking for a gun dog puppy or adult dog, it’s important to choose reputable breeders who conduct health screening and adhere to ethical breeding practices. This helps reduce hereditary illnesses and supports breed welfare.

Always research breeds thoroughly to ensure their needs fit your lifestyle. Maintain routine vet visits, provide mental and physical enrichment, and offer plenty of socialisation to promote your new dog’s wellbeing.

Choosing a gun dog breed is rewarding, offering years of companionship, activity, and heartfelt bonding for responsible owners.