UK has the largest dog population in Europe, Mars Petcare finds

The UK has the largest dog population, with 13.02m dogs, as one in three UK households own a dog, according to Mars Petcare.

Alongside this, the UK has one of the largest cat populations with 11.71m felines, with one in four households owning a cat.

One in three owners don’t change the food they originally feed their pet throughout their lifetime.

This demonstrates the importance for retailers and brands alike to target the growing number of first-time pet owners, many of whom prioritise sustainable products.

Almost 40% of pet owners consider their pets the most important part of their lives, with 45% of Gen Z and 40% of Millennials expressing this bond.

Globally out of the 56% of pet parents surveyed who own a dog or cat, nearly half (47%) are first-time owners.

Adelina Bizoi, category and market activation director at Mars Petcare, said: “The evolving bond between pets and their owners signifies a shift in behaviour that the industry must react to. We know the strong relationship between owners and their furry friends means that petcare continues to be one of the last categories that pet parents will look to decrease spending on[10], making sure they provide offerings that are beneficial to their pets’ health even during tough times economically.

“Retailers have a significant opportunity to tap into the growing demand for premium petcare by offering a diverse range of innovative products. High-quality, nutrient-rich options such as supplements and superfood treats appeal to wellness-focused owners prioritising their pets’ digestion, immunity, and joint health.”

She added: “Retailers can also tap into the rise of first-time pet parents and demand for sustainable products by offering starter kits and sustainability-driven initiatives. Starter kits, especially those tailored for first-time pet parents, can simplify pet ownership and create loyalty from the outset.”