Ever wondered how many people around the world share their homes with furry, feathered, or finned friends? The global landscape of pet ownership reveals fascinating patterns about our relationship with companion animals, with more than half of the world's population choosing to become pet parents.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore current pet ownership statistics, regional trends, and the factors driving the continued growth of pet companionship worldwide. From traditional pets like dogs and cats to exotic animals, we'll uncover the numbers that tell the story of our evolving bond with animals.
Global Pet Ownership Statistics: A Snapshot
As of 2025, more than 50% of the global population owns at least one pet, with the total global pet population reaching approximately 1 billion animals. Dogs lead the pack as the most popular pets globally, present in roughly one-third of households, while cats claim second place, residing in about a quarter of homes worldwide.
The 2024 Global Pet Parent Study reveals that 56% of survey respondents own either a dog or cat, with nearly half (47%) being first-time pet owners. This significant proportion of new pet parents signals a growing trend in pet adoption and ownership across different demographics.
Regional Pet Ownership Trends
North America
The United States leads with impressive numbers, with 71% of households (94 million) owning pets. Americans share their homes with 68 million dogs and 49 million cats, demonstrating the nation's strong pet-keeping culture.
Europe
European pet ownership shows unique patterns, with 46% of households owning pets. Russia stands out with the world's highest cat ownership rate at 59%, while countries like the UK, Germany, and Spain demonstrate strong pet populations across both cats and dogs.
Asia-Pacific
The Asian region hosts a remarkable cat population of approximately 400 million, while China leads in dog ownership with 54.29 million canines. Japan and South Korea show steady growth in pet ownership, reflecting changing cultural attitudes toward companion animals.
Generational Trends in Pet Ownership
Millennials currently represent the largest segment of pet owners globally, showing a particular affinity for treating pets as family members. Gen Z is making its mark as well, leading in multi-pet households and social media influence regarding pet care and products.
Interestingly, men slightly edge out women in cat ownership (52% vs. 48%), challenging traditional gender-based assumptions about pet preferences.
Economic Impact and Industry Growth
The pet industry continues to expand, with U.S. spending reaching $152 billion in 2024. First-year pet ownership costs can exceed $1,000, with annual expenses averaging $1,533 per dog for essential care and supplies.
The digital transformation of pet care is evident, with 51% of pet owners now shopping online for pet products, indicating a shift in consumer behavior and market dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of households worldwide own a pet in 2025?
More than 50% of households worldwide own at least one pet, with the global pet population reaching approximately 1 billion animals.
Which countries have the highest rates of pet ownership and what are their pet demographics?
The United States leads with 71% of households owning pets, while Russia tops global cat ownership at 59%. Brazil dominates South America with 58.5% of the continent's pet population.
How does pet ownership vary between different generations like millennials and Gen Z?
Millennials represent the largest group of pet owners (30%), followed by Gen X and Baby Boomers (25% each), and Gen Z (20%). Gen Z leads in multi-pet households and social media influence.
What are the most popular types of pets globally and regionally?
Dogs are the most popular pets globally, present in one-third of households. Cats rank second, with regional variations - for example, cats are more popular in Russia, while dogs dominate in Latin America.
What economic factors influence the growth of pet ownership around the world?
Rising incomes, expanding middle classes, urbanization, and changing family structures are key drivers of pet ownership growth. The pet industry's expansion and increasing disposable income in emerging markets also contribute significantly.
The future of global pet ownership looks bright as more people recognize the joy and benefits of sharing their lives with animal companions. As society continues to evolve, the bond between humans and their pets grows stronger, reflected in both statistics and cultural trends worldwide.
