Sometimes, studies and research are clearly done with the idea of furthering the knowledge of mankind. But just as every builder can't create Buckingham Palace, so too everyone with access to a computer and a copy of Excel can't be expected to unlock the secrets of the universe.
So it was with tongue firmly in cheek, we imagine, that pet insurance comparison website moneybeach.co.uk put together its report to decide which types of dog are the most beautiful to the human eye. They used as their basis the Golden Ratio, a well-respected theory in art and design which dates back to the Classical world, and which draws heavily on patterns observed in Nature.
A picture of each dog breed — 100 were considered in all — was then rated to see how closely its features adhered to the ratio.
The results are... well, surprising. Seeing the rottweiler in 8th place, seven places above the cavapoo.
But let's face it: the whole thing is utter nonsense, and simply a bit of fun, presumably designed to get rival owners' chins wagging as fast as their pets' tails.
And in any case, looks aren't everything — if you're looking to get a dog, it needs to fit in with your lifestyle rather than your desire for attractive dog-and-owner selfies. Our article on how to choose the perfect dog can help you decide what would work best for you and your family.
With that caveat taken care of, here are the top 20 cutest dog breeds according to the report:
1. Dalmatian
Adherence to golden ratio: 67.03%
2. Irish Water Spaniel
66.26%
3. Wire Fox Terrier
65.53%
4. Labrador
64.67%
5. Basset Hound
64.43%
6. Samoyed
64.33%
7. Jack Russell
63.86%
8. Rottweiler
63.65%
9. St. Bernard
62.94%
10. Golden Retriever
62.52%
11. Newfoundland
62.07%
12. Pug
61.44%
13. Schnauzer
59.01%
14. Leonberger
58.99%
15. Cavapoo
58.79%
16. Springador
58.69%
17. Siberian Husky
58.48%
18. Bernese Mountain Dog
56.76%
19. Old English Bulldog
56.30%
20. Bloodhound
56.05%
What does your dog say about you?
Rupert Uloth explores the myth that people choose dogs in their own image by talking to some of our more
How to choose the perfect dog to fit your lifestyle, family and home
Those who grew up with dogs probably already know which breed they want to own, and have done for years.
Credit: Getty Images/EyeEm
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