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Stranger Than Fiction

The number of dogs named Boris has fallen since the coronavirus pandemic

Published:Wednesday | February 9, 2022 | 7:29 PMA Digital Integration & Marketing production, BANG Bizarre

There were 313 puppies named Boris in the UK in 2020, but this dropped to just 123 in 2012 - perhaps reflecting the change of feelings towards British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Research conducted by pet insurer Agria also revealed that COVID is still inspiring canine names — with Pfizer and Zeneca still barking about on this year's list.

Britain's favourite puppy names have remained consistent over the past five years, with Bella, Willow, Daisy and Lola holding the top spots for female pooches.

Teddy, Milo, Buddy and Reggie also remain at the top for male dogs.

Tom Vaughan, head of marketing at Agria, said: "It's fascinating to see the shift in pet names each year, and the impact popular culture and everyday life can have on the names we give to our family pets."

 

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