Canadian Pet Market Survey, 4th Edition Report

Report Overview

Despite elevated costs and economic uncertainty, Canadian pet owners continue to spend on health-focused, locally made, and premium products that reflect their deep emotional connections to their pets.

Key Themes Covered in this Report:

• Inflation in Pet Food and Pet Products
• Consumer focus on value and pet health
• Uncertain impact of tariffs moving forward

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Packaged Facts’ Canadian Pet Market Survey, 4^th Edition provides a comprehensive assessment of the evolving Canadian pet industry, highlighting the key forces reshaping pet ownership, purchasing behavior, and industry growth. Based on a bilingual September 2025 survey of 1,000 Canadian pet owners, the report reveals how economic pressures, lifestyle changes, and technological adoption are redefining Canada’s pet care landscape. Key trends examined include:

Inflation and Value-Driven Spending

While inflationary pressures have begun to subside, elevated prices remain a primary concern of pet ownership. Nearly half of Canadian pet owners report spending more on pets in 2025 than in 2024, despite tightening household budgets. Value-seeking behavior has intensified—manifesting in greater openness to store brands and price promotions—yet consumers continue to prioritize quality and nutrition. This balance between value and premiumization underscores a maturing market where owners remain committed to their pets even under financial strain.

“Made in Canada” and Local Sourcing

One of the most significant trends is the surge in demand for Canadian-made products, reflecting both economic nationalism and consumer trust in domestic production standards. Local sourcing, shorter supply chains, and transparency have become competitive differentiators, particularly as tariff concerns remain front-of-mind.

Health, Wellness, and Functional Pet Nutrition

Pet health continues to drive innovation and spending. Owners increasingly treat pet food as a wellness product, emphasizing natural, functional, and minimally processed formulations. Interest in alternative proteins, probiotics, and fresh or human-grade pet foods has surged. At the same time, awareness of pet anxiety and stress—exacerbated by post-pandemic lifestyle shifts—has driven growth in calming, behavioral, and supplemental products.

Ethical, Sustainable, and Value-Aligned Consumption

Sustainability and corporate responsibility have moved to the forefront of purchasing decisions. Pet owners expect brands to align with their personal ethics—supporting animal welfare, responsible ingredient sourcing, and environmental stewardship. Canadian companies are responding through initiatives focused on carbon footprint reduction, recyclable packaging, and humane treatment of animals used in pet food supply chains.

Digital Transformation of Pet Care

The rise of online shopping, subscription services, and pet tech devices reflects a broader digital shift in pet care and retail. E-commerce continues to outpace brick-and-mortar growth, with Amazon and pet specialty chains expanding their digital ecosystems. Pet owners increasingly use online channels not just for purchases, but also for information, tele-veterinary consultations, and connected devices that monitor pet health and behavior.

Evolving Veterinary and Pet Service Models

Veterinary care remains essential but is under financial pressure. Many owners express concern about affordability, while showing strong interest in virtual vet services and wellness plans that improve access and convenience. Non-medical pet services such as grooming, daycare, and training face economic challenges but remain in demand among higher-income and younger demographics.

Shifts in Pet Ownership

Younger Canadians—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are driving changes in pet ownership patterns, spending priorities, and expectations of brands. Ownership rates for dogs and cats remain strong nationwide, with regional variations reflecting income, urbanization, and lifestyle factors. The report details how household demographics, pet size, and acquisition trends are reshaping the long-term structure of the Canadian pet market.

Canadian Pet Market Survey, 4th Edition Report Details

Leading Companies Driving Trends in the Canadian Pet Market Survey, 4th Edition Industry