As the new addition to Kate and William’s household is announced, research by enhanced insurance cover specialists, Select from Direct Line, reveals that although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel turned out to be the public’s preferred royal breed, the Cocker Spaniel came in at a close second. Corgis may have been synonymous with British Royalty…

As the new addition to Kate and William’s household is announced, research by enhanced insurance cover specialists, Select from Direct Line, reveals that although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel turned out to be the public’s preferred royal breed, the Cocker Spaniel came in at a close second.

Corgis may have been synonymous with British Royalty for almost seven decades, but the British public does not share the Queen’s love of the breed, according to the Select research. Just 35 per cent of people think the Corgi would be an appropriate dog to represent the British Monarchy when William ascends to the throne alongside Kate.

Given public apathy towards the Corgi, Select from Direct Line engaged Stan Rawlinson, one of the UK’s leading dog behaviourists, to develop a shortlist of canines with the breeding, style and temperament to complement William and Kate.  The public were then asked to vote which breed of dog would be most appropriate to represent our monarchy when William and Kate become King and Queen.

Top five breeds of dog voted by the public as a suitable companion for the royal couple are:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
2. Cocker Spaniel 
3. Labrador Retriever
4. Border Collie
5. Daschund

Topping the nation’s list was the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (19 per cent).  Named after a past King of England this breed has been linked with English royalty since the 1500s. Nicknamed “The Comforter Spaniel” this lap dog needs plenty of affection, making it a good companion for Kate while William is away on RAF duties. It is also brilliant with children, perfect should the couple want to start a family in the coming years.

One in six (18 per cent) voted the Cocker Spaniel the perfect dog to accompany Kate Middleton on Royal duties.  The Cocker Spaniel is the second most popular dog in the UK according to the Kennel Club, making it very much a ‘puppy for the people.’

The third dog in line to take up the mantle as Royal mascot was the Labrador retriever, receiving 15 per cent of the public vote. Labradors are very affectionate, even with extended families, so are well suited to coping with the crowds that follow the Royal couple to any engagement.  A very sporting, athletic breed, they also fit with Kate’s love of the outdoors.

Nick Brabham, head of Select from Direct Line, said: “The public have embraced William and Kate as a breath of fresh air for the monarchy and wanted them to choose a new breed of dog to represent the nation on the world stage.  There is no doubt, the hound will certainly be one of the most privileged pets in Britain, roaming vast estates and being flown around the country.  Obviously, not all pets will enjoy such extravagant lifestyles, but with Select, they will receive a first-class experience should any accident or incident arise.”

Stan Rawlinson says: “The public’s choice was inspired. Spaniels were born to be with Royalty. Happy in either a palace or a flat, these wonderful pets are great with children, adults and other dogs. I would have probably voted this breed into first place.”

Languishing at the bottom of the list is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, with just two per cent of the nation’s votes. Despite being one of the only dogs the Kennel Club recommends for a family with small children, it appears that the Staff’s past reputation for aggression means many feel it doesn’t quite fit with the public’s vision of a Royal canine