Global Dog Food Market: Information by Ingredient Type (Insect-Derived, Animal-Derived, Plant-Derived, Cereal and Cereal Derivatives), Pet Food Product (Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, Pet Veterinary Diets), Type (Dry Dog Food, and Wet Dog Food), Pricing Type (Premium Products and Mass Products), Distribution Channel (Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets), and Region—Forecast till 2032

Market Overview

The global dog food market size was valued at USD 42 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 65 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 5% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The increasing ownership of pets and the growing trend of treating pets as human-like are the primary reasons driving the market.

Dog food is a type of nourishment specifically formulated for dogs and other canine family members. Dogs are classified as omnivores but have a strong affinity for eating meat. They are obligate carnivores, similar to cats, as they do not possess the ten genes necessary for digesting starch and glucose nor the ability to generate amylase. This enzyme aids in the breakdown of carbohydrates into simple sugars. Nevertheless, they possess the incisive, pointed dentition and shorter digestive systems typical of predatory animals, making them more adapted to consuming meat rather than plant matter. Dogs acquired the capacity to live with humans in agricultural societies due to their ability to exist on human waste and excrement. The canines' ability to efficiently digest carbohydrates may be a significant differentiating factor between dogs and wolves. Dogs have undergone extensive evolutionary changes over millennia, enabling them to survive and thrive on diverse diets consisting of meat and non-meat waste and leftovers from human activities.

Furthermore, the dog food business is expanding due to increased awareness of pet health and a greater focus on the entire well-being of pets. Effective marketing campaigns and creative packaging solutions additionally drive the increase. Factors such as rising pet health and wellness concerns, rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes, the widespread use of e-commerce platforms, and more expenditures on high-quality dog food options are driving the market forward.

Highlights

• Animal-derived generate the highest revenue share based on ingredient type. 
• Food generates the highest revenue share based on pet food products. 
• Dry dog food generates the highest revenue share based on type. 
• Mass product stores account for the largest market share by pricing type. 
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets account for the largest market share by distribution channel.

Market Dynamics

Global Dog Food Market Drivers

Increasing Demand for Vegan and Organic Brands 

The global market for dog meals is projected to encounter several potential prospects due to the increasing demand for chemical-free and organic dog foods. Organic dog food offers advantages such as decreased susceptibility to hazardous pesticides and improved digestive processes. Moreover, these variations might not elicit any allergic response. Recently, there has been a consistent rise in the prevalence of organic dog food companies. The European dog food manufacturer, The Rockster, declared its expansion into the US market in July 2023.

Similarly, the Rockster provides the world's initial bio-organic and superfood items designed for dogs. Phillips Pet Food & Supplies will be its primary distributor in the United States. The Rockstar's debut establishes it as the sole brand in the United States that provides bio-organic pet food. Freshpet (FRPT) introduced its inaugural vegetarian dog food, Spring & Sprout, in September 2021. The product is anticipated to deliver the advantages of entirely plant-derived protein and eggs sourced from cage-free environments. Additionally, it is supplemented with vegetables and fruits to enhance its nutritional value.

Rising Awareness about Animal Food

The sales size of the dog food market will be further influenced by the growing awareness of the significance of meeting the correct dietary needs of animals. In the past, many dogs used to eat standard human food. However, as people become more conscious about what they consume, more individuals now understand that dogs have different nutritional needs than humans.

Additionally, PetSmart Charities, a prominent animal welfare organization in the United States, declared the inaugural Pet Hunger Awareness Day™ to take place on September 26th, 2023. Through this action, the organization seeks to raise awareness of pet hunger, including the plight of stray animals. In August 2022, Petcurean, a prominent producer of premium pet food brands, introduced a social awareness program called Giving Away to Give Back. The program aims to enhance donation rates in Non-Profit Organizations (NGOs).

Global Dog Food Market Restraint

Increasing Instances of Pet Allergies

The industry is facing a significant obstacle due to the rising prevalence of pet allergies among pet owners. The industry has been dramatically affected by the consumer trend of prioritizing pet health and well-being, fueled by the increasing number of pet adoptions and the tendency to treat pets as family members. Approximately 39% of the worldwide labor force comprises working women who are pet owners. These individuals seek nutritional dog food with unique ingredients and many functions. The ingredients include vital amino acids, probiotics, antioxidants, and raw materials such as meat, meat byproducts, cereals, grains, specialized proteins, and fruits. Strict compliance with dietary restrictions is necessary to address pet health issues like digestion and performance. As a result, prepared pet food has become popular, focusing on organic choices and flavors that appeal to a dog's predatory instincts.

Consequently, the correlation between the economic crisis and household expenditure has impacted pet food pricing, resulting in a shift towards prioritizing crucial components such as animal protein meals, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and commodities. For optimal health, dogs, especially carnivorous ones, need a diet high in meat and low in carbohydrates and carbs. The market provides diverse goods, from necessities to luxurious choices, to accommodate different budgets and interests. People with disorders such as asthma are discouraged from owning pets, which will limit the number of pets being adopted or sold in the predicted time frame.

Global Dog Food Market Opportunity

Increasing Dog Adoption Rate 

The global market for dog foods is expected to expand due to the rising number of individuals adopting dogs worldwide. Among all animal adoption instances globally, most pets, particularly dogs, fall under the canine classification. Worldwide, dogs are the primary pets that dominate the pet food industry because of their significant consumption of commercial pet food and their large population. Dogs accounted for 48.7% of the global pet food market in 2022. The share grew 67.2% from 2017 to 2022, driven mainly by the increasing number of dogs and the surging demand for high-quality products. The dog population experienced a growth rate of 13.5% from 2017 to 2022. The food segment holds the most market share in the dog food industry, with a valuation of USD 54.7 billion in 2022.

In addition, the prevailing cultural expectation is a significant catalyst for the rise in dog adoption, as dogs have long been integrated into households owing to their innate protective instincts. Some species of these animals exhibit heightened aggression and function as vigilant canines, whereas others serve primarily as companions. Some breeds that fall toward the former category include Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and others. With the increasing popularity of pet adoption, there has been a growing desire for highly effective dog food products.

Regional Analysis

The global dog food market analysis is conducted across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global dog food market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% over the forecast period. The North American market for dry and wet dog food is increasing due to its ease of preparation. Canada and the US are significant participants, with Canada being the primary importer, followed by the Bahamas and Honduras. Based on the 2019-2020 national pet owners survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), most households in the United States (about 84.9 million families) own a pet, with dogs being the most commonly owned type of pet.

Over the past few years, the country has allocated more funds towards dogs. The increasing demand for nutritious and wholesome pet food directly results from pet owners' escalating health anxieties. Wild Earth Inc., a startup based in the United States, pioneered the first range of high-protein, plant-based dog food in the industry. With the rise of dog shelters in the area, there has been a corresponding increase in the demand for dog food.

Europe is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 5.8% over the forecast period. The European Pet Food Industry (FEDIAF) states that premium and super-premium pet food have a significant market share. Manufacturers meet consumer demands by providing pet food items that cater to human nutritional choices, such as organic, grain-free, and vegan options. Cultural attitudes towards pets and pet ownership vary throughout different locations. 

Asia-Pacific holds a significant market share. The humanization of pets in Asia has led to a substantial rise in demand for high-quality and customized pet food options. Furthermore, the Asia Pacific region is home to a substantial and increasing population, including a burgeoning middle class with a higher discretionary income level. As a result, the area has significant potential for expansion, making it an attractive market for global enterprises.

Segmental Analysis

The global dog food market is segmented based on ingredient type, pet food product, type, pricing type, and distribution channel. 

Based on ingredient type, the global market is divided into Insect-Derived, Animal-Derived, Plant-Derived, Cereal and Cereal Derivatives, and Others. 

The animal-derived segment dominated the segment in 2023. Animal-derived components, such as meat, chicken, and fish, are essential for creating balanced and healthy dog food since they closely match dogs' natural dietary preferences and nutritional needs. In addition, components produced from animals provide a plentiful supply of necessary amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support a dog's general health and welfare.

Moreover, the belief that animal-derived components are of high quality and genuine corresponds to the current trend of pet owners desiring to give their dogs nutrition that closely mimics the diets of their ancestors. The demand for products containing significant amounts of animal-derived material is driven by a preference for components that evoke a connection to nature and primitive instincts.

The cereal and cereal derivatives segment is the fastest growing due to the increasing number of individuals allocating resources towards feeding stray animals and donating to non-governmental organizations (NGOs). India has a population of around 60 million stray dogs, and multiple organizations collaborate to supply food to these animals.

Based on pet food products, the market is segmented into Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, and Pet Veterinary Diets.

The food segment dominated the segment in 2023. This is because pet food is an essential and regular purchase for most pet owners, regardless of the size or age of their pets.

The treats accounted segment is the fastest growing. Dogs exhibit a preference for treats in comparison to other animals. These snacks have several functions, such as being used for training, promoting tooth hygiene, and serving as rewards. 

The pet veterinary diets segment is the second largest. Pet veterinary diets target and treat specific pet health concerns, such as urinary tract illnesses, renal failure, and digestive sensitivities. Pets may also receive them as a prophylactic measure to prevent the development of specific health conditions. 

The market is segmented based on type into Dry Dog Food and Wet Dog Food.

The dry dog food segment dominated in 2023. The global market witnessed substantial expansion, primarily fueled by customer preference for pet health and nutrition. Highly nutritious dry dog food, with ample amounts of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, became widely recognized. Vendors' sales were enhanced by their emphasis on appealing packaging and product advancements, exemplified by Scout and Zoe's introduction of Super Fly. Manufacturers use mergers, acquisitions, and product development tactics to broaden their consumer base. The market expansion was driven by the adoption of pets and the increasing trend of humanizing pets.

The wet dog food segment is the fastest growing. Dogs, particularly those who are selective eaters, elderly, or have dental problems that hinder chewing hard kibble, generally find wet dog food more tasty and preferable. Additionally, it offers hydration, which might be advantageous for canines with particular health issues.

The market is segmented into Premium and Mass Products based on the pricing type. 

The mass-products segment dominated the market in 2023. Mass-product items are priced intentionally to attract diverse consumers, making them easily affordable and appealing to pet owners with varying economic levels. This cost aligns with the varied worldwide demographics of dog owners and guarantees a broader customer base. In addition, mass-produced goods often take advantage of economies of scale in their manufacturing methods, allowing firms to keep prices competitive while producing large quantities. This enables enterprises to access the large consumer market without sacrificing quality or nutritional content. It gives them a favored option for cost-conscious consumers who want affordable yet dependable pet choices. 

The premium products segment is the fastest growing. Premium goods substantially impact the worldwide dog food market as they meet the increasing desire of pet owners for top-notch, nourishing choices. These products frequently include natural ingredients, specialist formulae, and distinctive packaging, which attract buyers who want to give the best for their pets. This drives market growth and encourages innovation.

Based on the distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online stores, and others. 

Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominated the segment in 2023. Supermarkets and hypermarkets provide the convenience of comprehensive shopping, allowing people to buy groceries, household necessities, and pet food all in one trip. The ease of merging purchases is a significant attraction for busy shoppers who aim to minimize the time and effort spent shopping. These merchants usually provide various dog food brands and goods, from economical to high-end choices. This assortment guarantees that customers may discover products that align with their particular preferences, financial constraints, and their pet's nutritional requirements.

The online segment is the fastest growing. E-commerce platforms offer a more comprehensive selection of dog food products than local stores, encompassing specialty and high-quality brands, imported items, and niche dietary options. This extensive variety guarantees that pet owners can easily find the precise products that cater to their dogs' specific nutritional requirements and preferences.

Recent Developments

• January 2024– PawCo Foods introduced its latest plant-based dog food offerings on January 4th, 2023. PawCo, established by a former employee of ImpossibleFoods and backed by a committed group of scientists and board-certified animal nutritionists, introduced GreenMeat™, the initial entirely plant-based meat explicitly designed for pet food. Currently, they are broadening their selection of products.
• March 2024 – Protix, a company that supplies black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) insect protein to the pet and human food sectors, conducted a study demonstrating the beneficial effects of BSFL on dogs' oral health, namely in reducing halitosis or bad breath.