A shocking one in four dog owners spend two hours or less researching before they buy a dog, according to a new survey.

But with Crufts just around the corner, dog-lovers descending on the NEC Birmingham are being urged to ‘find their perfect match’ with the help of experts on hundreds of different types of four-legged friends.

Exactly 25 per cent of owners admit they take just an hour or two to come to a decision on their dog, with more than one in five (21 per cent) saying they regret not spending more time researching before selecting a breed.

And the eye-opening survey, commissioned by The Kennel Club, also revealed that almost a third (30 per cent) of owners believe their dog doesn’t suit their lifestyle, with more than one in 10 (14 per cent) also admitting they regret the breed they chose.

A dog’s personality and behaviour (51 per cent) ranks the highest when it comes to what’s considered important to owners when choosing a puppy, with the breed or crossbreed it was (45 per cent) a close second.

Price (38 per cent) is also a key consideration, with where the puppy was located (31 per cent), specific requirements – such as exercise, grooming and health – (29 per cent) and that they were cute (26 per cent) also emerging as important.

With Crufts just two days away, visitors to the world’s biggest and best dog event will have the chance to meet over 200 breeds at the trailblazing Discover Dogs exhibition.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the unique ‘meet and greet’ area provides visitors the opportunity to meet hundreds of four-legged friends, speak to experts in each breed about what they are like to live with and care for, and find out which breed might be best suited to their lifestyle.

Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club, said: “There are well over 200 breeds of dogs in the UK and each one is different - in shape, size, personality and needs. Would-be owners should learn as much as they can about breeds they’re interested in, both their good traits and possible downsides.

“A good first step to help you find your match is coming to Crufts, taking place at the NEC in Birmingham this week. The Discover Dogs area, with hundreds of breeds under one roof - from the most popular to vulnerable breeds, and a huge variety in between - and experts on hand, can help you decide if you are ready for a dog, and which breed could be your perfect fit.”

Crufts, run by The Kennel Club, is a unique celebration of happy, healthy dogs and of the loving relationship that they enjoy with their owners. Crufts is held from 7-10 March 2024 at the NEC Birmingham. Viewers can follow all the action and highlights on Channel 4, and for further information and tickets visit crufts.org.uk