Wyoming had the highest pet ownership rate in the United States, with ** percent of households owning a pet in 2025. West Virginia came in second place with a ** percent pet ownership rate. In comparison, Colorado's pet ownership rate that year was ** percent.

During a survey conducted in 2024, it was revealed that millennials represented the biggest share of pet owners in the United States (** percent), followed in second place by Generation X (** percent). Baby Boomer's came in third, representing some ** percent of pet owners. Pet ownership in the United States Despite some fluctuations, household penetration rates for pet ownership in the United States have generally increased over the years, going from ** percent in 1988 to approximately ** percent in 2023. With millennials constituting the largest group of pet owners in the United States, they also constituted the generational group that planned to spend the most on their pets during the holidays in 2020, with an average spending of ** U.S. dollars, compared to only ** U.S. dollars of average planned spending on pets for Baby Boomers. Pet expenditure in the U.S. Pet food and treats constituted the highest selling category for pet products in the United States, with total food and treats sales reaching **** billion U.S. dollars in 2022. Vet care and product sales were the second biggest pet market category that year, generating around **** billion U.S. dollars in sales. Generally, average annual pet expenditure was higher for dog owners than for cat owners across all pet market categories in 2020.

Introduction

Pet Ownership Statistics: Pet ownership has become very common around the world in 2024. Many people enjoy having pets like dogs, cats, birds, or fish as part of their family. Pets offer companionship, reduce stress, and can make people feel happier. For some, pets provide emotional support or help with daily tasks, especially for people with special needs.

People owning a pet also come with responsibilities, like providing food, regular checkups at the vet, and proper care. Pet owners need to be prepared for the time, money, and attention they need to live healthy and happy lives.

This statistic shows the share of pet owners in the population of selected countries all over the world as of 2016. During the survey, ** percent of respondents in Argentina stated they own a dog, while ** percent said they own a cat.

This statistic shows the average share of pet ownership worldwide as of 2023, by pet type. Across all surveyed countries, ************* are the most popular pet type around the world.

********* percent of households in the United States owned one or more pets in 2023/2024. Household penetration rates for pet-ownership have increased by ** percent since the beginning of the survey period in 1988. What kinds of pets do Americans prefer? There were estimated to be around ** million dog-owning households in the United States according to a recent survey, making dogs the most popular kind of pets in American homes. Cats and freshwater fish ranked in second and third places, respectively. Horses and saltwater fish were the least popular types of animals to keep, with around *** million households owning each type of pet. How much do Americans spend on their pets? Total pet industry expenditure reached around ***** billion U.S. dollars in 2022, an increase from the previous year. As well as regular expenses such as food and vet costs, households were estimated to spend around *** billion U.S. dollars on Valentine's Day gifts for their pets in 2023.

An estimated ** million households in the United States owned at least one dog according to a 2024/25 pet owners survey, making them the most widely owned type of pet across the U.S. at this time. Cats and freshwater fish ranked in second and third places, with around ** million and ** million households owning such pets, respectively. Freshwater vs. salt water fish Freshwater fish spend most or all their lives in fresh water. Fresh water’s main difference to salt water is the level of salinity. Freshwater fish have a range of physiological adaptations to enable them to live in such conditions. As the statistic makes clear, Americans keep a large number of freshwater aquatic species at home as pets. American pet owners In 2023, around ** percent of all households in the United States owned a pet. This is a decrease from 2020, but still around a ** percent increase from 1988. It is no surprise that as more and more households own pets, pet industry expenditure has also witnessed steady growth. Expenditure reached over *** billion U.S. dollars in 2022, almost a sixfold increase from 1998. The majority of pet product sales are still made in brick-and-mortar stores, despite the rise and evolution of e-commerce in the United States.

Introduction

Pet Insurance Statistics: Pet insurance is a type of insurance coverage designed to help pet owners manage the costs associated with veterinary care for their pets.

It provides financial protection in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries to pets. Just like health insurance for humans, pet insurance policies come with various coverage options, deductibles, and premium rates.

Context...

Ever wondered the what and where of dog ownership? So have we!

Content...

Have a look at a sample set of South Australian and Victorian animal registration data. Data is publicly available from the data.gov.au website under a creative commons licence. Information includes: breed, location, desexed and colour. Datasets are for the 2015, 2016 & 2017 periods (depending on availability). SA information has been consolidated in ~82,500 lines of data!

Acknowledgements...

A big thank you to the SA and Victorian shires for having such great datasets!

Inspiration...

We love dogs and really want to understand the distribution of pets across SA and Victoria. We will leave it up to you the insights you want to create!

Dogs and cats have become the most important and successful pets through long-term domestication. People keep them for various reasons, such as their functional roles or for physical or psychological support. However, why humans are so attached to dogs and cats remains unclear. A comprehensive understanding of the current state of human preferences for dogs and cats and the potential influential factors behind it is required. Here, we investigate this question using two independent online datasets and anonymous questionnaires in China. We find that current human preferences for dog and cat videos are relatively higher than for most other interests, with video plays ranking among the top three out of fifteen interests. We also find genetic variations, gender, age, and economic development levels notably influence human preferences for dogs and cats. Specifically, dog and cat ownership are significantly associated with parents’ pet ownership of dogs and cats (Spearman’s rank correlation c...

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.

All dog owners residing in NYC are required by law to license their dogs. The data is sourced from the DOHMH Dog Licensing System, where owners can apply for and renew dog licenses.

Each record represents a unique dog license that was active during the year, but not necessarily a unique record per dog, since a license that is renewed during the year results in a separate record of an active license period. Each record stands as a unique license period for the dog over the course of the yearlong time frame.

This dataset is useful for municipal governments, veterinarians, and researchers who are interested in pet ownership patterns, compliance with local licensing laws, and demographic analysis of pet ownership. It can also aid in public health monitoring, such as tracking rabies vaccinations, which are often required for licensing.

Data scientists and analysts can perform various types of analytics such as:

• Descriptive Statistics: Analyze the distribution of dog breeds, the average age of dogs, and the licensing compliance rates across different zip codes.
• Geospatial Analysis: Map the data to see geographic patterns in pet ownership, breed popularity, or areas with lower licensing compliance, which can help in targeted public health and safety campaigns.
• Time Series Analysis: If longitudinal data is available, trends over time in pet registrations, renewals, and compliance could be evaluated.
• Predictive Modeling: Model the likelihood of license renewal or the factors influencing it, using logistic regression or other suitable predictive models.
• Cluster Analysis: Identify clusters of similar zip codes based on dog population characteristics, which can help in resource allocation for animal control agencies.

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Pet Sitting Market Size 2024-2028

The pet sitting market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.57 billion at a CAGR of 9.87% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. First, the rising trend of pet humanization has led to increased pet ownership and spending on pets. Pet types encompass a wide range, from small mammals and birds to freshwater fish, smart pet livestock, and exotic pets. As pet owners prioritize their pets' wellbeing, they seek professional pet sitting services for care visits during their absence. Service types include regular check-ins, feeding, administering medication, and playtime. Compliance with stringent regulations and certifications is essential for pet sitting businesses to ensure the highest level of care and safety for pets. These factors collectively contribute to the market's growth and ongoing demand for professional services.

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The pet sitting market is thriving as more pet owners seek reliable care for their furry companions. With the return-to-work trend, many retired people and students are turning to pet sitting services to accommodate their busy lifestyles. This growing demand has led to increased spending of consumers on quality pet care. In particular, the pet care cost associated with hiring a service provider can vary, but it ensures pets are well cared for while owners travel or work. Furthermore, societal shifts in pet acceptance have made pets a central part of many households, leading to a rise in the need for professional care. Ultimately, the pet sitting market reflects the evolving relationship between humans and their animal companions, providing peace of mind for pet owners.

Market Segmentation

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

Type

  Dogs
  Cats


Service

  Care visits
  Drop-in visits


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Type Insights

The dogs segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market experiences significant growth due to the increasing popularity of dogs as pets and the resulting demand for pet care services. Dogs, the most commonly owned pets worldwide, are sought after for their ability to alleviate feelings of loneliness, reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, and promote physical activity and cardiovascular health. Additionally, dogs serve as valuable companions for children and the elderly, instilling responsibility, kindness, and empathy.

Additionally, pet owners require pet sitting services, including daycare visits and dog walking, when they are unable to be at home. Animal-borne disorders, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, can necessitate the need for pet sitting services, further driving market growth. The rise of e-commerce platforms has also made it easier for pet owners to access a wide range of pet grooming products and services online, contributing to market expansion. Furthermore, legislation and regulations governing pet care and pet sitting services may vary by region, segmenting the market by pet type and location.

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The dogs segment was valued at USD 1.31 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

North America is estimated to contribute 41% 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 market, a significant sector within the pet care industry, experiences substantial growth, particularly in North America. With the US, Canada, and Mexico leading the way, this region hosts the largest number of pets and pet-sitting services worldwide. Factors such as the affordability of these services and the availability of experienced, full-time providers contribute significantly to the market's expansion in North America.

Additionally, increasing awareness among pet owners regarding various pet sitting options, including daycare visits and dog walking, further fuels market growth. Animal-borne disorders like abdominal pain and diarrhea necessitate the need for professional pet care services, leading to increased demand for pet sitting. Legislation mandating proper care for pets during their owners' absences also supports the market's growth.

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of

Hungary had the highest share of dog-owning households in the European Union, with almost half of the population owning at least one dog in 2023. Other countries, like Poland and Romania, had a little more than a third of households with at least one pet dog. Pet ownership in Europe Germany had the highest pet dog population in Europe, with more than ten million dogs in 2022. In comparison, Romania had approximately 4.2 million dogs in that same year. However, pet dog ownership was more prevalent among Romanian households, where 43 percent of households owned at least one dog in 2022, compared to only 21 percent of German households who were dog owners in that same year. In the last decade, both the number of pet cats and pet dogs increased significantly in Europe. Pet food trade Due to a growing pet population in the European continent, the pet industry flourished, and pet food trade is one indicator of that growth. The import value of cat and dog food more than tripled in the last decade, increasing from 480 million U.S. dollars in 2011 to over 1.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2021. European exports of pet food followed a similar trend, reflecting a general expansion in pet food industry and trade in Europe.

Dog Sitting Service Market Outlook

The global dog sitting service market size is projected to grow from USD 4.5 billion in 2023 to an impressive USD 10.2 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.1% over the forecast period. This growth is largely driven by the increasing pet ownership rates and the rising disposable incomes, which allow pet owners to spend more on premium pet care services.

One of the primary growth factors for the dog sitting service market is the escalating number of pet owners globally. According to recent statistics, the number of households with pets has significantly increased in the past decade, with dogs being the most popular choice. This surge is particularly notable in urban areas where people often face constraints concerning time and space, making professional dog sitting services a necessity rather than a luxury. Furthermore, the humanization of pets trend has led owners to seek top-notch care for their furry friends, further propelling the demand for professional dog sitting services.

Another crucial factor contributing to the market's growth is the busy lifestyles of modern pet owners. With longer working hours, frequent business trips, and vacations, many pet owners are unable to provide consistent care for their dogs. This lifestyle shift has created a burgeoning market for dog sitting services, which offer convenience and peace of mind to pet owners. Additionally, the increasing awareness regarding the mental and physical well-being of pets has encouraged owners to opt for professional care services when they are unavailable, boosting the market's growth.

Technological advancements and the proliferation of mobile applications have also played a pivotal role in the market's expansion. The rise of online booking platforms has made it easier for pet owners to find and book reliable dog sitting services. These platforms often feature detailed profiles, reviews, and ratings of sitters, helping owners make informed decisions. This digital transformation has not only streamlined the booking process but has also expanded the market's reach, attracting tech-savvy pet owners who prefer the convenience of online services.

Regionally, North America is expected to dominate the dog sitting service market, followed by Europe and the Asia Pacific. In North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, the high pet ownership rates combined with the growing trend of pet humanization are significant drivers of market growth. Europe is also witnessing a steady increase in demand for dog sitting services, driven by similar trends. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate due to rising disposable incomes and increasing awareness about pet care services in emerging economies like China and India.

Pet Daycare services have emerged as a vital component of the pet care industry, offering a structured environment for dogs to engage in social activities and receive professional supervision. These facilities cater to the needs of working professionals who seek reliable care for their pets during the day. Pet Daycare centers provide a range of activities designed to stimulate both the mind and body of the dogs, ensuring they remain active and engaged. The growing awareness of the benefits of socialization and exercise for dogs has led to an increase in demand for Pet Daycare services. As more pet owners recognize the importance of these services in maintaining their pets' overall well-being, the market for Pet Daycare is expected to expand significantly.

Service Type Analysis

The dog sitting service market can be segmented based on service type, including in-home dog sitting, pet daycare, overnight boarding, dog walking, and other specialized services. In-home dog sitting services, where a sitter takes care of the pet in the owner's home, are highly popular due to the comfort and familiarity it provides to the dog. This service type is particularly favored by pet owners who wish to maintain their dogÂ’s routine and environment, minimizing stress for the pet. In-home sitting also offers a personalized care approach, often including additional services like feeding, playtime, and administering medications.

Pet daycare services are another significant segment within the market. These facilities provide a safe and engaging environment for dogs during the day while their owners are at w

This dataset is a modelled dataset, describing the mean dog ownership characteristics per household at a postcode district level(e.g. YO41). This dataset gives the mean household owership rate for each district, and was generated as part of the delivery of commissioned research. The data contained within this dataset are modelled figures, based on national estimates for pet population, and available information on Veterinary activity across GB. The data are accurate as of 01/01/2015. The data provided are summarised to the postcode district level. Further information on this research is available in a research publication by James Aegerter, David Fouracre & Graham C. Smith, discussing the structure and density of pet cat and dog populations across Great Britain. Attribution statement: ©Crown Copyright, APHA 2016

Pet Tech Market Outlook

The pet tech market has been gaining significant traction globally, with a market size valued at approximately USD 5 billion in 2023 and projected to reach USD 18 billion by 2032, driven by a robust CAGR of 15%. The exponential growth of this market is primarily fueled by a surge in pet ownership and the increasing inclination of pet owners towards premium and technologically advanced products for their pets. This trend is further amplified by the adoption of IoT devices, which offer innovative solutions for pet care, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for both pets and their owners.

One of the key growth drivers of the pet tech market is the rising awareness and concern for pet health and well-being. In today's world, pets are considered integral members of the family, and their health is of paramount importance to their owners. This has led to an increased demand for products that can monitor and analyze pet health in real-time. Smart collars and pet health monitoring devices have thus become increasingly popular, allowing pet owners to track their pet's physical activities, sleep patterns, and even vital signs. The real-time data provided by these devices enables prompt interventions and consultations with veterinarians, ensuring better health outcomes for pets.

Another significant factor contributing to the growth of the pet tech market is the shift towards automation and convenience in pet care. As lifestyles become busier, pet owners are seeking products that can simplify the routine aspects of pet care, such as feeding, grooming, and monitoring. Automatic feeders and self-cleaning litter boxes are examples of such innovations that cater to the need for convenience. These products not only save time but also ensure that pets are cared for even in the absence of their owners. The inclination towards automation is likely to boost product development and innovation, consequently propelling market growth.

Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning within pet tech products is creating new avenues for market expansion. These technologies are being used to develop products that can learn and adapt to the behavior and preferences of individual pets, offering personalized experiences. For instance, AI-enabled pet cameras can now recognize and differentiate between various behaviors exhibited by pets, alerting owners to any unusual activities. Such advancements are not only enhancing the functionality of pet tech products but also elevating the overall pet ownership experience.

The advent of Home Pet Camera systems has revolutionized the way pet owners interact with their furry companions. These devices provide a sense of security and connection, allowing owners to check in on their pets throughout the day. With features such as two-way audio and motion detection, home pet cameras enable real-time communication and monitoring, ensuring that pets are safe and comfortable even when their owners are away. This technology not only alleviates the anxiety of leaving pets alone but also helps in identifying any unusual behavior that might require attention. As the demand for such interactive solutions grows, the market for home pet cameras is expected to expand significantly, offering pet owners peace of mind and enhancing the overall pet care experience.

Regionally, North America continues to dominate the pet tech market, driven by a high pet ownership rate and substantial disposable income levels that allow for expenditure on premium pet products. However, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth, with countries like China and India at the forefront due to increasing urbanization and a growing middle-class population willing to invest in pet care. European markets also show promising growth prospects as pet owners in this region increasingly prefer technologically advanced products. Each region presents distinct opportunities and challenges, influenced by cultural, economic, and regulatory factors, shaping the dynamics of the pet tech market.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the pet tech market is diverse, encompassing a range of innovative products designed to enhance pet care and management. Smart collars, for instance, have emerged as a revolutionary tool in pet health and safety management. These devices are equipped with GPS tracking, health monitoring, and even behavioral analysis capabilities, allo

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has affected many industries in significant ways, including the pet industry. During a survey carried out in February 2022, ** percent of respondents in the United States reported acquiring a new pet. This is an increase of **** percent compared to December 2020, when ** percent of respondents reported getting a new pet. Pet ownership during the pandemic With nationwide lockdowns forcing people to spend most of their time confined at home, approximately ** percent of Americans from all generations surveyed in 2020 reported spending more time with their pets as a result of social distancing regulations. Additionally, the pandemic had its impact on the economic situation of millions of people who may have struggled with precarious work or part-time employment that was discontinued due to lockdowns, which made many pet owners concerned about the affordability of pet food and products. In fact, younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials in the United States were more likely than Baby Boomers to be worried about pet expenses during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Pet industry in the United States Pet industry expenditure in the United States has witnessed remarkable growth over the years and was forecast to reach nearly *** billion U.S. dollars in 2021, up from less than half that figure only ten years prior when it was approximately ** billion U.S. dollars in 2011. Among the most prominent players in the U.S. pet industry are pet food companies Mars Petcare Inc. and Nestlé Purina Petcare, generating ** billion and ** billion U.S. dollars in revenues, respectively.

Impounded cats and dogs are animals sheltered at the Animal Service Centre because they were running at large in their communities, a violation under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw. A cat or dog running at large creates safety issues for the public and for the animal. For more information please visit: http://www.calgary.ca/CSPS/ABS/Pages/Animal-Services/Impounded-cats-dogs.aspx

This statistic shows the share of pet owners in the United States in 2017, broken down by ethnicity. According to the report, ** percent of Caucasians own a pet in the United States.