Edinburgh is a city full of different types of dogs, with more residents choosing certain breeds over others.
You may also find some of the most expensive dog breeds in the world listed below. The list below reveals the nine favourite pups of Scotland and Edinburgh locals in 2025.
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of Edinburgh’s most popular breeds. It has a small stature, an affectionate personality, and its size and nature make it a great dog for those in apartments. You don’t need a large house with land to keep a French Bulldog happy. Plus, their friendliness and lack of high-energy needs ensure they are good dogs for living in residential, built-up areas.
2. Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is an idyllic blend of the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. It’s included because of its genial temperament and hypoallergenic fur. This endears it to families and those with allergies, which is common among residents in Edinburgh.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are a classic Edinburgh dog choice. They are known for being intelligent and warm, making them the perfect companions for families and lone rangers. Labradors are a breed that can adapt to living in almost any environment, from country fields to city flats.
4. Cocker Spaniel
Edinburgh residents own English and American Cocker Spaniels. They have a great personality and low to moderate needs for socializing and exercise. This makes them an affectionate breed that can also find its way into the hearts and homes of apartment-dwellers.
5. Scottish Terrier
Known as the Scottie, the Scottish Terrier is well-established in the city. This breed is confident and self-reliant, which has led to it becoming something of a symbol of Scotland in its own right.
6. Border Collie
While they are often associated with the countryside, Border Collies can often be seen on Edinburgh’s streets, providing their energetic owners with their ideal walking partner. They are known for their incredible intelligence and high energy levels, and ideally, they should be walked off-lead in rural areas as much as possible to deplete their seemingly infinite reserves of energy.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are a delight to their owners. These gentle, affectionate dogs are ideally suited for apartment living in Edinburgh, as they don’t require a lot of exercise and form a very close attachment to their owner. Being walked is like a social outing. They are small in size, sporting luxurious, long, flowing double coats.
8. Dachshund
The look of the Dachshund’s long-bodied, short-legged body makes it one of the first dogs to come to mind for most dog lovers. These brave, playful, and friendly little dogs are attached to their owners with a lot of affection. They’re made for about every type of living situation. The size and weight of your dog are the best things to consider. Although not as tiny as Shih Tzus, Dachshunds are very friendly and love to be petted.
9. Beagle
Beagles are among the most loving dog breeds. They were born to love and seek attention. They are not too big, and they enjoy being walked the whole day. Beagles are big-hearted and big-boned, and lots of people are allergic to them because of their size.
The plethora of dog breeds to be found in Edinburgh reflects the city’s mixture of urban influence and nature. If you are looking for a dog to join your family or just want to admire the many dogs you pass each day, Edinburgh offers a wide variety to choose from!
