The share of households owning a pet in the United Kingdom remained relatively stable between 2012 and 2018, hovering around an estimated percentage of 47 to 45 percent. However, pet ownership levels peaked to an unprecedented high of 62 percent in 2022, likely as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and increased time spent at home. In 2023, this figure shrank to 57 percent.

Pet ownership in the UK With more than half of UK households owning at least one pet in 2021/22, dogs and cats were the most common household pets in that year, with an estimated 13 million dogs and 12 million cats living in homes. As of 2020, the United Kingdom was the second highest-ranking European country in terms of its dog population, preceded only by Germany.

Consumer spending on pets in the UK As the pet population in the United Kingdom increased in size, so did consumer spending on pet food and pet-related products and services. Spending on pets and related products reached almost eight billion British pounds in 2020, a notable increase from a mere 2.9 billion British pounds in 2005. Among the most expensive pet-related expenditures are veterinary and pet services, which constituted almost four billion British pounds in 2020.

According to an online survey conducted in 2024, it was estimated that 13.5 million dogs and 12.5 million cats were living in UK homes in that year. In addition, the pet population in the United Kingdom also included around 1.3 million indoor birds and 1 million rabbits. Expenditure on pets in the UK In 2021, consumers spent over 9.6 billion British pounds on pets and related products in the United Kingdom, almost double the pet expenditure levels ten years prior, when pet owners in the UK spent a total of 5.13 billion British pounds in 2011. Since dogs and cats were the most common pet animals in UK homes, dog food and cat food were also the most valuable segment in the pet market in the UK. For instance, the UK dry dog food market was valued at 576 million British pounds. Pets at Home Pets at Home is a British pet supplies retailer operating more than 452 stores in the United Kingdom. It is one of the leading pet retailers in Europe, with an annual turnover of 948 million euros in 2019. Pets at Home revenue amounted to more than 1.14 billion British pounds in 2021. Over the last decade, the British pet retailer witnessed its revenues increase every year from a figure of approximately 517 million British pounds generated in 2011.

According to a survey carried out in the summer of 2021, ********* of respondents in the United Kingdom stated that money is no object when it comes to their pet. Some **** percent shared that they are budget-conscious.

The population of dogs kept as pets in the United Kingdom (UK) was estimated at **** million in 2024, which is an increase of around *** million from the previous year. Dog ownership in the UK As the population of dogs grew in the United Kingdom over the last decade, so did the share of dog-owning households in the UK. Between 2019/20 and 2021/22, the share of UK households owning a pet dog jumped from ** percent to around ** percent. This sudden increase could be attributed to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting government-imposed quarantines that forced people to stay at home. UK households own pet dogs from various breeds. However, Labrador Retrievers were by far the most popular dog breed in the UK, with around ****** registrations in 2020. French Bulldogs were also equally popular with ****** registrations in that year. How much does it cost to own a dog in the UK? Consumer spending on pets and related products went up significantly in the United Kingdom between 2005 and 2020, with expenditure levels peaking at **** billion British pounds in 2020. The annual cost of keeping a pet dog in the UK amounted to an estimated ***** GBP as of 2022. Broken down by expense type, boarding for two weeks cost approximately *** GBP per year and is the costliest part of owning a pet dog, followed by pet insurance estimated at around *** GBP annually.

According to a survey of UK pet owners carried out in March 2022, around ** percent of dog owners stated that owning a pet made them mentally healthier. Figures were lower for cat and rabbit owners, at around ** and ** percent, respectively.

According to a survey carried out in the summer of 2021, almost ** percent of surveyed cat and dog owners in the United Kingdom stated that their pet is best described as a family member. Some *** percent of cat owners and *** percent of dog owners perceived their animals as just a pet.

According to the most recent pet population survey in 2024, approximately ** percent of responding households in the United Kingdom (UK) owned at least one dog. Between 2010 and 2020, the percentage of households who own at least one dog remained between ** and ** percent. In 2021, the survey changed its format from face-to-face to online, meaning that data should not be directly compared with previous years. Pet dogs in the United Kingdom A downward trend is also reflected in the number of pet dogs owned in the UK, which was approximately ** million in 2023. This constitutes a decrease of *** million compared to 2022. The majority of British dog owners get their pets from a breeder of one specific breed. Approximately ** percent get their dog from a rescue or rehoming center/shelter based in the UK. Most popular dog breeds in the United Kingdom The most frequently registered dog breeds in the UK are Labrador Retrievers and French Bulldogs. Since 2011, the number of registered French Bulldogs has increased from approximately ***** to over ******. The number of Labrador Retrievers remained relatively stable between 2011 and 2020. Both breeds saw a notable increase in registrations during the pandemic year of 2021. For example, the number of Labrador Retrievers increased from around ****** in 2020 to over ****** in 2021.

The market has ballooned in recent years, driven by premiumisation amid surging demand for products made with high-quality natural ingredients and spurred on by inflationary price hikes since 2021-22. The rise of pet parenting, where pets are treated as part of the family, has fuelled the penetration of premium pet foods, with consumers becoming more concerned about the benefits of providing a nutritious diet for their pets and willing to purchase premium products that are marketed with organic and healthy ingredients. This has mitigated the effects of a potentially challenging operating environment amid falling disposable incomes and unwelcome pet population trends. Industry revenue is expected to increase at a compound annual rate of 1.5% over the five years through 2024-25 to reach £2.9 billion. Online pet food orders have grown as owners' concerns about the health of their pets have risen. This has supported growth in industry revenue and enterprise numbers, with many small companies entering the industry to take advantage of market niches. Industry revenue is anticipated to climb by 0.8% in 2024-25, boosted by a rise in the number of pet cats and dogs in the UK. Industry revenue is projected to swell at a compound annual rate of 2.3% over the five years through 2029-30 to reach £3.2 billion. As major manufacturers and private labels increasingly penetrate niche markets, price competition in premium segments of the market will intensify. Producers are set to continue seeking new avenues for expansion by introducing niche products, with lucrative growth opportunities likely to remain in the personalised pet food manufacturing market. Additionally, improving economic conditions are anticipated to support continued growth in pet ownership, driving industry growth.

According to a 2024 survey, dogs were the most commonly owned pet in UK households. The share of households reporting dog ownership stood at 36 percent. The second most common house pet among UK households were cats, with around 26 percent of respondents stating their ownership. Pet ownership in the UK In the past year, pet ownership levels in the UK decreased by five percent when compared to 2022. This decrease could be explained by the change in owner's routines since pandemic restrictions have lifted. The share of UK households owning a dog or cat also decreased in comparison to previous years. Happiness, companionship, and man’s best friend A 2020 survey asked dog owners to state their reasons for owning a dog and all linked their ownership to either improving their happiness and/or providing companionship. Happiness was the most common response, with 51 percent stating ‘because they make me happy’. Whereas 47 percent stated their dogs provided ‘love/affection’ and 35 percent stated their dogs provided ‘companionship’. It seems the old saying “man’s best friend” still holds true to this day.

The UK cat population was estimated at 12.5 million in 2024, marking a decrease of around one million from the year. 2024 reached the highest recorded figure since the survey began. It is important to note that the survey changed from face-to-face to online in 2021, making it difficult to compare years. Across the UK the share of households owning at least one cat is going strong, if a little behind those who choose the company of canines.  Cats make people happy   Dogs may reign supreme in the nation, but cats are still a popular choice for pets in the UK, and for the sweetest reasons too. It is safe to say that UK cat owners have strong emotional ties with their furry friends, with majority of people viewing cats not just as pets but as reliable sources for love, affection, and happiness.    EU loves cats more than UK   When compared with the rest of the EU, the United Kingdom fares relatively behind in pet ownership. In 2019, the share of UK households with at least one pet cat placed the country in the lower ranks. In contrast, Central European countries such as Romania, Latvia, and Hungary had the highest share of households with cats.

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Companion Animal Healthcare Market Size 2024-2028

The companion animal healthcare market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.84 billion at a CAGR of 10.03% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. The rising trend of pet ownership in North America continues to drive market expansion. Moreover, increasing awareness about the importance of pet insurance and the need for comprehensive healthcare coverage is another major growth driver. Additionally, stringent regulatory approval processes for veterinary drugs ensure the production of safe and effective treatments, further boosting market growth. These trends are expected to continue shaping the market In the coming years.

What will be the Size of the Companion Animal Healthcare Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a range of products and services aimed at promoting the health and well-being of pets. Pharmaceutical businesses play a significant role in this market, providing animal vaccines for various diseases, including Nipah infection and zoonotic illnesses, as well as treatments for food-borne illnesses. The market is experiencing dynamic growth due to increasing pet ownership, rising awareness of animal health, and advancements in veterinary healthcare, such as diagnostics, vaccines, and preventive care. The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, health apps, and other digital solutions for animal care. Cruelty to animals is a growing concern, leading to increased demand for ethical animal health products.Feed additives and preventive measures are also essential components of the market, as they help maintain animal health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions. Overall, the market is a thriving industry that prioritizes the health and well-being of pets while addressing the evolving needs of pet owners.

How is this Companion Animal Healthcare Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The companion animal healthcare industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. ProductPharmaceuticalsDiagnosticsGeographyNorth AmericaCanadaUSEuropeGermanyUKAsiaChinaRest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The pharmaceuticals segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several factors. Pharmaceuticals represent the largest segment, driven by increasing pet ownership, the rise in zoonotic diseases, and the growing demand for pet insurance. Zoonotic diseases, such as rabies, blastomycosis, and salmonellosis, pose a threat to both animals and humans. Animals can act as early warning systems for potential human infections, making their health a critical concern. Animal health products, including vaccines and diagnostics, are essential for preventing and treating diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and health apps for preventive care and treatment of diseases. Regulatory requirements, veterinary healthcare advancements, and sustainable practices are shaping the market landscape.Geographical trends, consumer disposable incomes, and regulatory frameworks are key factors influencing market growth. The future outlook is positive, with opportunities in urbanization, emerging economies, and advanced medical technologies. Animal welfare and personalized medicine are also gaining importance. The market is segmented by animal type, product, and end user, with Europe having a significant presence. Challenges include regulatory hurdles, income levels, and pet care costs. Despite these challenges, the market is expected to grow, driven by advanced healthcare solutions and user-friendly testing kits for chronic condition monitoring.

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The Pharmaceuticals segment was valued at USD 10.21 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 45% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American the market is experiencing notable expansion, driven by the increasing pet ownership trend In the United States and Canada. Factors fueling market growth include a well-established animal health industry base, high adoption rates of companion animals, rising incidences of zoonotic diseases and food-b

According to a survey of UK pet owners carried out in May 2021, around nine percent of dog owners stated that their pet gained weight during the coronavirus pandemic. The same share of rabbit owners claimed that their pet had gained weight.

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Pet Accessories Market Size 2025-2029

The pet accessories market size is forecast to increase by USD 15.87 billion at a CAGR of 6.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. The increasing number of pet owners and their heightened spending on pets are major driving forces. Additionally, the advent of smart pet accessories, such as GPS tracking collars and automated feeders, is adding value to the market. Another trend influencing the market is the growing awareness of pet allergies among human beings, leading to a demand for hypoallergenic type. These factors are expected to fuel market growth in the coming years. The market presents numerous opportunities for businesses, particularly those offering innovative and technologically advanced products. However, challenges such as intense competition and the need for continuous product innovation remain. Overall, the market is poised for strong growth, driven by the love and care pet owners have for their furry companions.

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The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing number of pet adoptions and the rising prioritization of pet wellbeing. According to recent studies, pet adoption rates have been on the rise, leading to an increase in pet expenditure on accessories such as collars, leashes, harnesses, beds, toys, grooming supplies, vitamins, organic food, and more. This trend is driven by pet owners' desire to provide their pets with a healthy lifestyle and ensure their wellbeing, which includes hygienic, odor-free, dander-reducing, and hair loss prevention accessories. New product varieties continue to emerge in response to these needs, including pet grooming accessories and pet grooming services. The focus on pet health and longevity is a key driver of market growth, with pet owners seeking to maintain their pets' hygiene and overall health.

How is this Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Animal Type

  Dogs
  Cats
  Others


Product

  Pet toys
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


End-user

  Pet owners
  Veterinary clinics
  Pet grooming salons


Price Range

  Budget
  Mid-Range
  Premium


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Animal Type Insights

The dogs segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is driven by the increasing number of pet adoptions, particularly of dogs and cats. With a growing number of households owning pets, the demand for such as beds, toys, collars, leashes, harnesses, grooming supplies, vitamins, organic food, automatic pet feeders, and smart accessories is on the rise. The pet wellbeing trend is a significant factor contributing to this growth, as pet owners prioritize their pets' health and comfort. New product varieties, including eco-friendly and smart accessories, cater to the evolving needs and preferences of pet owners. The business is expected to expand further as more people humanize their pets, leading to a larger consumer base and opportunities for preventive products and pet health care.

Further, the use of recycled fabrics and plant-based materials also aligns with current consumer trends towards sustainability. The market is segmented into mass and luxury segments, catering to the varying needs and budgets of pet owners. The e-commerce industry's growth and the increasing availability of online pet brands make it easier for pet owners to access these products from the comfort of their homes, regardless of their living conditions, be it studio apartments or high-rise buildings.

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The dogs segment was valued at USD 14.39 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 48% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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In North America, the market thrives due to the high pet adoption rate and the trend of pet humanization. With a significant portion of the population consisting of elderly individuals seeking companionship and nuclear families with dual incomes, pet ownersh

Owning a dog cost an estimated 1,934 British pounds a year in the UK as of 2025. Two weeks of boarding was estimated to cost 450 British pounds per year, making up the largest share of total dog expenditure. Expenditure on pets The annual expenditure on pets in the UK has generally been increasing since 2005. As of 2021, expenditure exceeded 9.66 billion British pounds, marking an increase of about 175 percent during this time period. Consumers between 30 and 49 years of age spend the most weekly compared to other age groups, spending an average of 8.5 British pounds per week on pet food and other pet products. Rise in dog registrations in the UK Dog population in the UK surged in 2021. Since 2010, the dog population has been at about 8.6 million, on average. In 2021, however, the population grew by over 40 percent, reaching about 12 million dogs. The top dog breeds in the UK are Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, and Cocker Spaniels according to dog registrations that year.

This dataset includes animal population aggregated data under the framework of Directive 2003/99/EC.

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Pet Wearable Market Size 2024-2028

The pet wearable market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.67 billion at a CAGR of 18.57% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the expanding pet industry and the increasing trend towards e-Commerce and online sales. This market is characterized by a large and diverse consumer base, with pet owners seeking innovative solutions to monitor and care for their animal health and wellbeing. However, the market is not without challenges. The presence of unorganized players and the availability of counterfeit products pose significant threats to market growth and profitability.
To capitalize on this market opportunity, companies must focus on product innovation, quality assurance, and effective distribution strategies. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the growing demand for pet wearables, businesses can position themselves for long-term success in this dynamic and evolving market.

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The market is experiencing significant growth as technology advances and pet owners seek innovative ways to care for their furry companions. This sector encompasses various offerings, including pet-specific software, wearable marketing, and subscription services. Key trends include data security, sustainable materials, and remote veterinary consultation. Battery life, emergency response, and predictive analytics are essential features for pet safety. Wearable comfort and privacy concerns are also important considerations. Remote monitoring, personalized pet care, and data visualization are driving the market, with machine learning and veterinary data sharing enabling more effective pet care. Community features, wearable design trends, and behavioral analysis are shaping the industry.
Influencer marketing and pet social media are channels for branding and marketing wearables. Pet wellness, wearable software development, and wearable branding are essential aspects of this market. Smart tags, wearable customization, and rental programs cater to diverse pet owner needs. Wearable aesthetics, pet fashion, ethical production, wearable charging, and social media integration are crucial elements of the wearable design landscape. Preventive care, pet safety alerts, pet insurance integration, microchip integration, and artificial intelligence are integral to the market's regulatory compliance and overall growth.

How is this Pet Wearable Industry segmented?

The pet wearable industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Product

  Smart collar
  Smart camera
  Smart harness and vest


Application

  Identification and tracking
  Monitoring and control
  Medical diagnosis and treatment
  Facilitation/safety and security


Technology Type

  RFID
  GPS
  Sensors
  Health Monitoring
  Location Tracking
  Behavior Analysis


Animal Type

  Dog
  Cat
  Other


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The smart collar segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Smart collars, integrated with GPS tracking technology, have gained significant traction in the pet care industry. These advanced pet accessories offer pet owners peace of mind by enabling real-time location monitoring, ensuring quick retrieval in case of loss or escape. The user-friendly design and convenience of smart collars have broadened their appeal to various demographics. Pet healthcare and insurance companies are increasingly integrating these devices into their offerings, expanding distribution channels and enhancing customer satisfaction. Fitness tracking features, remote control capabilities, mobile apps, and behavioral insights are some additional benefits that contribute to the competitive advantage of smart collars. Wearable sensors, biometric data, and cloud platforms facilitate health monitoring and data analytics, providing valuable insights for pet owners.

The pet technology market is witnessing a in the adoption of connected devices, with smart collars, feeders, and homes becoming integral components of the modern pet lifestyle. The integration of IoT and wearable technology in pet care is revolutionizing pet safety and training, offering interactive toys, wearable design, and luxury options. Pricing strategies, comfort and fit, pet grooming, consumer behavior, and veterinary care are among the key considerations for pet owners when

This statistic shows the estimated percentage of households owning indoor birds in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2010/11 to 2021/22. According to the most recent pet population survey, approximately *** percent of households in the UK owned an indoor bird.

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Animal Health Diagnostics Market Size 2025-2029

The animal health diagnostics market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.10 billion, at a CAGR of 9.1% between 2024 and 2029. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing trend of pet humanization and the growing preference for advanced health monitoring systems.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 46% share in 2023.
The market is expected to grow significantly in Europe region as well over the forecast period.
Based on Type, the companion segment led the market and was valued at USD 1.84 billion of the global revenue in 2023.
Based on End-user, the Veterinary hospitals segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023.

Market Size & Forecast

2024 Market Size: USD 3.83 Billion
Future Opportunities: USD 2.10 Billion
CAGR (2024-2029): 9.1%
North America: Largest market in 2023

The market continues to evolve, driven by advancements in technology and the growing demand for accurate and efficient diagnostic solutions. Machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence are increasingly being integrated into diagnostic tools, enabling faster and more precise results. Point-of-care diagnostics, such as immunochromatographic assays and lateral flow assays, are gaining popularity in veterinary clinics and animal hospitals due to their convenience and ease of use. Data analytics plays a crucial role in the animal health diagnostics industry, with big data and biomarker analysis providing valuable insights into disease patterns and trends. In-vitro diagnostics, including molecular diagnostics and serological testing, are essential for disease prevention and surveillance in both livestock production and companion animals.

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Antigen detection and antibody detection are key applications of animal health diagnostics, with microbiology testing and parasitology testing being critical areas of focus. Digital pathology and next-generation sequencing are also gaining traction, offering more accurate and comprehensive diagnostic solutions. The veterinary diagnostics market is witnessing significant growth, with biotechnology companies investing heavily in research and development to bring innovative solutions to market. Precision medicine and personalized treatment plans are becoming increasingly important, requiring advanced diagnostic tools and data analytics capabilities. Remote diagnostics and laboratory diagnostics are also becoming more prevalent, enabling veterinarians and researchers to access diagnostic information from anywhere in the world.

Animal welfare remains a top priority, with diagnostic tools playing a critical role in ensuring the health and wellbeing of animals. The ongoing unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns in the animal health diagnostics industry underscore the importance of staying informed and adaptable to the latest trends and technologies. The livestock segment of type is the second largest segment and was valued at USD 1.71 billion in 2023.

As pets are viewed as family members in many households, there is a heightened focus on their wellbeing, leading to increased demand for diagnostic services and technologies. Furthermore, the rising cost of animal healthcare is fueling this market, as pet owners are willing to invest in preventive care and early disease detection to minimize veterinary expenses in the long run. However, challenges persist in the form of stringent regulatory requirements and the high cost of advanced diagnostic equipment, which may limit market penetration for some players.

To capitalize on opportunities and navigate these challenges effectively, companies must stay abreast of regulatory changes and explore cost-effective solutions for diagnostic technologies. By doing so, they can cater to the evolving needs of pet owners and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

How is this Animal Health Diagnostics Industry segmented?

The animal health diagnostics industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Companion
  Livestock


End-user

  Veterinary hospitals
  Veterinary clinics
  Point-of-care testing facilities


Technology

  Immunodiagnostics
  Molecular Diagnostics
  Hematology
  Clinical Biochemistry
  Diagnostic Imaging
  Urinalysis
  Others


Product

  Instruments
  Consumables
  Software & Services


Disease Type

  Infectious Diseases
  Non-Infectious Diseases
  Hereditary/Congenital Diseases
  General Ailments
  Structural/Functional Diseases


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Franc

Some ** percent of cat owners surveyed between March and April in 2022 in the UK stated that they were worried that they would not be able to afford a large vet bill. This is an increase from *** percent in 2021. The share of cat owners who have considered giving up their cat increased to ***** percent in 2022.

The value of the dog food market in the United Kingdom (UK) reached around two billion British pounds in 2024, making it the most lucrative market segment. Cat food followed in second place with a market value of 1.53 billion British pounds. The pet food market in the UK The growth rate of the pet food market in the UK stood at around nine percent annually in recent years. The growth rate of the pet food market slightly edges the growth rates of other pet market segments, such as those of veterinary and retail. The value of dog and cat food imports to the UK amounts to nearly 1.4 billion U.S. dollars annually. The majority of the UK’s dog and cat food imports come from France and Germany. Moreover, the UK also exports about 370 million U.S. dollars’ worth of dog and cat food annually. In general, countries from the European Union remain the UK’s main trading partners for both imports and exports of dog and cat food.

Dog population in the UK

The number of dogs kept as pets in the UK stood at approximately 12 million. The pet dog population has increased by almost 40 percent within the last decade. Close to one-third of households in the UK own at least one dog. A noticeable jump in dog ownership rates was seen in the year 2021 when the share of household-owning dogs increased by ten percent as compared to the previous year. It is important to note that the survey changed from face-to-face from online at this time. This sudden growth in dog owners could also be related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The most common ways to purchase a dog in the UK are through breeders and private sellers. About 20 percent of dog owners receive their pet from a rescue or rehoming center/shelter.