- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:40 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Top 10 Countries With Most Pets In 2025: Japan is making headlines as it officially reported that the country had more pets than children. According to recent reports, there are approximately 15.9 million pet dogs and cats in Japan, while the number of children under the age of 15 is fewer than 13.7 million. This change is a result of the nation's ageing population and falling birth rate. As more senior citizens live alone or in couples and fewer young families, many are turning to pets for emotional support and company. In many Japanese homes, dogs and cats are regarded as members of the family and are frequently lavished with high-end food, grooming, and even health insurance.
Though this trend is not limited to Japan. During and after the pandemic, more people adopted pets, increasing the number of pet owners worldwide. Among the nations with the largest pet ownership rates are the United States, Brazil, China, Russia and India. Globally, the relationship between people and animals is growing closer, and pets are becoming more important to family life and mental health.
In this article, we will look at the top 10 countries with the most pet ownership in 2025, including total pet population and reasons why pets are so popular in these nations. From urban apartments to countryside homes, pets are becoming an essential part of people's lives across the globe.
| Rank | Country | Total Pet Population by 2024 (Include Dogs, Cats and others) |
| 1. | United States | 163.5 million |
| 2. | China | 163.5 million |
| 3. | Russia | 74.8 million |
| 4. | Philippines | 61 million pets |
| 5. | India | 42 million pets |
| 6. | United Kingdom | 35 million pets |
| 7. | Germany | 33.9 million |
| 8. | Spain | 20.45 million |
| 9. | Argentina | 19 million |
| 10. | Japan | 15.9 million |
Source of Data: GlobalPETS, Statista, Forbes and mentioned below
Which Country has How Many Pets In 2025?
1. United States
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Top 10 countries with the most pets (Image: Canva)
With 86.9 million homes owning pets in 2024, particularly dogs and cats, the United States is at the top of the list with a total of 163.5 million pets, including all kinds of pets, according to Forbes. Because they are viewed as members of the family, Americans adore pets. Pets provide companionship, loyalty, and emotional support to families with smaller numbers and hectic schedules. Animal care is made simple in the United States by a robust pet care sector.
2. China
Pet ownership has skyrocketed in China, particularly in cities. According to GlobalPETS, there were 124.1 million pets in China overall in 2024. Pets are becoming emotional companions as the middle class expands and more people choose to live alone or put off getting married. With pet influencers and trends promoting pet adoption, social media also has a significant impact. Dogs and cats are most popular in Chinese cities.
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3. Russia
Pets are adored in Russia because of their devotion and defence. Many homes, particularly in rural areas, keep dogs as companions and protectors. In 2023, 74.8 million people in Russia owned pets, with cats accounting for 49.2 million of those, compared to dogs' 25.5 million. During difficult social and weather conditions, Russians view pets as stress relievers.
4. Philippines
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Top 10 countries with the most pets (Image: Canva)
It is estimated that there were 61 million pets in the Philippines in 2024, with approximately 18 million dogs and 43 million other pets. Both cats and dogs are adored family members. For emotional and security reasons, many households adopt pets. Filipinos frequently view pets as playmates and protectors, particularly in households with young children. Pet care is also made simpler by the open areas and warm weather.
5. India
India is seeing a sharp increase in pet ownership. More urban families are adopting cats and dogs as part of their contemporary way of life. In 2024, the country had 42 million pets, rising from 26 million in 2019. Pets provide company, particularly to working professionals and nuclear families. Growing knowledge about pet grooming, adoption, and health is also making animal care simpler.
6. United Kingdom
Pets are regarded as family in the United Kingdom. The PDSA Animal Well-Being Report estimates that there will be about 35 million pets in 2024, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and even guinea pigs. Taking care of pets brings comfort and happiness to many British people, who have a deep-rooted love for animals. Pets also help older adults and single people feel less lonely.
7. Germany
Germany's strong animal welfare laws support the country's love of pets. In 2024, there were 33.9 million pets overall, as per GlobalPETS, including dogs, cats, small mammals, and decorative birds. Because of their companionship and capacity to enhance mental health, people adore dogs and cats. Many Germans would rather have pets than kids, and they frequently take their dogs to restaurants, parks, and public transportation.
8. Spain
Top 10 countries with the most pets (Image: Canva)
Spanish people have a deep emotional connection to their pets, particularly dogs. Spain is predicted to have more than 20.45 million pets by 2024, according to the National Association of Pet Food Manufacturers (ANFAAC). Although a wide range of animals are included in this number, the most common companions are dogs and cats. Pets provide routine and affection to many people who live alone or in small families. Better rights and care for animals have resulted from the Spanish government's declaration that pets are sentient beings. In Spain, public areas that allow dogs are widespread.
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9. Argentina
In Latin America, Argentina has one of the highest rates of pet ownership. Over 19 million people in Argentina are expected to own pets overall in 2024. Particularly adored, dogs are frequently spotted strolling alongside their owners in parks and on the streets. Family life is made happier and cosier by pets, who are regarded as devoted companions. Adoption and responsible pet ownership are encouraged in the culture.
10. Japan
Japan now officially has more pets than children, highlighting its unique demographic shift. According to a recent Grand View Research report, Japan officially recorded 15.91 million pets and 13.7 million children under the age of 15. As the number of elderly people rises and the number of children declines, pets offer companionship, routine, and comfort. Pets are welcome in Japanese apartments, and pet cafés and daycare facilities are also available.