With nearly 1,900 registered dogs, Forest Lake has been named Brisbane’s third most popular suburb for pet ownership in new data that also crowned the Labrador as the city’s favourite breed.
The registration figures, released for the last financial year, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s neighbourhoods and the pets that make them feel like home.
What Makes a Dog Hotspot?
The numbers show that some suburbs are clear favourites for Brisbane’s 106,026 registered dogs. Topping the list is Bracken Ridge in the city’s north, with 2,124 registered pups. It was followed closely by The Gap with 1,971 dogs, while Forest Lake proved its status as a premier destination for pet owners, claiming third place with an impressive 1,877 registered dogs. Suburbs like Wynnum and Ashgrove also ranked in the top ten, suggesting that access to parks, community spaces, and a family-friendly atmosphere are key factors for Brisbane’s dog lovers.
These figures paint a picture of communities built for companionship, where a walk in the park is as much for the four-legged residents as it is for their human neighbours.
The City’s Breed of Choice
Across all Brisbane suburbs, the data shows a clear preference for classic, family-friendly breeds. The Labrador Retriever remains the city’s undisputed favourite, with 9,017 registered dogs. This choice reflects a city that values an active, outdoor lifestyle perfectly suited to the Labrador’s temperament.
Also popular are the gentle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, with 7,250 registrations, and the intelligent Border Collie, with 6,752. While poodle-crosses remain a common sight, the official numbers show that Brisbane’s residents lean towards these timeless purebred companions. Other breeds in the top ten include the Golden Retriever, Australian Kelpie, and the small but spirited Dachshund.
A Tale of Two Naming Trends
When it comes to names, Brisbane owners blend the traditional with the trendy. The classic name Charlie fetched the top spot with 1,211 registrations, proving some names never go out of style. Other perennial favourites like Bella (1,034) and Coco (920) also filled out the top three.
However, the data also highlights the massive cultural footprint of the beloved Brisbane-made cartoon, Bluey. More than 400 families paid tribute to the show, naming their dogs Chilli (190), Bandit (102), Bluey (65), or Bingo (55). This trend sits alongside a wonderfully creative streak, with some of the city’s most unique names including Jabba the Mutt, Starvin Marvin McLovin, and Ziggy Stardust the Third.
Keeping Our Furry Neighbours Safe
Beyond the fun of names and breeds, council officials stressed the importance of the registration data. City standards committee chair, Councillor Sarah Hutton, said that registering and microchipping pets is vital for keeping them safe. She explained that the registration fees directly fund community programs and facilities that benefit both pets and their owners, helping to make Brisbane an even better place for our furry friends to live.
Published Date 08-September-2025
