DOGS have been our best friends for thousands of years. Nine million of us - almost a quarter of all households in the UK - share our homes with them.

Based on the results of a recent survey of 1,000 dog owners across the nation, this one-off programme reveals our most popular breeds, what makes us fall head over heels for a particular type of dog, and discovers how our favourites have changed over the years. Following on from other popular canine-related ITV shows like Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs, The Secret Life of Dogs, Flockstars and even Britain's Got Talent – which has had two doggy champions in recent years – this countdown of the top ten breeds meets some of Britain’s most outstanding pooches, and finds out which breed emerges as top dog.

In no particular order, TV Times rates ten of the four-legged friends that are mostly likely to appear in tonight's show:

Cocker Spaniel. This small, bouncy dog is known for its unbridled enthusiasm and happiness and has appeared in the top ten lists for the past 100 years.

Golden Retriever. A newcomer compared to some, but known for its loyalty. Its thick coat means that a vacuum cleaner is in constant use.

German Shepherd. An established breed in the late 19th Century, the animal formerly bred to herd sheep and then a part of Germany's World World One army, became the Alsatian for a while before changing back in 1977.

Springer Spaniel. Another hugely cheerful and energetic dog, the bread has a long working history and has an uncanny ability to flush out game. A powerful sense of small has led to search and rescue work.

Yorkshire Terrier. Just nine inches tall, it was originally bred to catch rats in Yorkshire's woollen mills. Ever the diva, the Yorkie now loves being pampered and often rules the roost.

Labrador. Thought to have originated in Newfoundland, the Labrador earned its reputation as a loyal gun dog with an ability to collect game from field and water. It instinctively runs straight to water while on a walk, so a towel is usually helpful.

Jack Russell. A little dog with a big heart. Named after a 19th Century parson, the Rev John Russell, the breed has moved from hunting to become a playful, cheeky companion that can jump five times its height.

Border Collie. After a long history of working on the Scottish and English borders, this skilled herder is now the most popular sheepdog in the UK. Incredibly intelligent and able to learn commands.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Staffie's get a hard time because it gives the impression of being aggressive and has a history of being used for blood sports. But once trained this is a loyal friend for life.

Mixed Breeds. Cockapoos, Puggles and Schnoodles have moved into our homes and are the new breeds that are exciting the dog-buying market.

Secrets of Online Shopping: Supershoppers Special (Channel 4, 8pm)

BRITISH consumers lead the way when it comes to internet shopping, but are we really getting the best deals? Andi Osho and Anna Richardson go behind the scenes of the internet retail revolution, assessing how shopping websites tempt people to buy more and how much online delivery really costs. From Amazon to Asda, and John Lewis to Just Eat, the Supershoppers reveal some surprising results and, through a series of shopping diaries, internet addicts share their insights and tips into the world of online shopping.

Celebrity MasterChef (BBC1, 8pm)

THE culinary contest continues with EastEnders actress Laila Morse, former rugby union international Neil Back, broadcaster Richard Coles, and singers Amelle Berrabah and Simon Webbe. They begin by creating dishes using ingredients from a Mystery Box, before taking on the challenge of cooking in a restaurant kitchen in two groups. Finally, the celebrities return to MasterChef HQ, where each contestant prepares a two-course meal of their own design in one hour, before judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace decide who will be going home.

Viv Hardwick