BRITAIN’S LOVE AFFAIR WITH DOGS REACHES A NEW HIGH
Source: Pet Business World News (Extract)
Posted: April 02, 2026
The United Kingdom has never been more dog-mad — and the numbers prove it.
A Nation of Dog Lovers
According to the latest annual Pet Population Survey by UK Pet Food, the number of dogs in Britain has reached a record 15.5 million — an increase of three million in just five years. Dog ownership has grown from 33% of households in 2021 to 41% today, making dogs a fixture in nearly half of all British homes.
The growth is being driven largely by younger generations. Among 25 to 34-year-olds, dog ownership has surged from 41% to 58%, while ownership among 16 to 24-year-olds has risen from 41% to 53% over the same period.
Pets at the Heart of Family Life
The broader picture is equally striking. The UK is now home to an estimated 36.5 million pets in total, with 62% of households — around 18 million homes — owning at least one. More than half of households with children own a dog, while 39% own a cat.
Cats remain the second most popular pet, with 13.1 million living in UK homes, up from 12.2 million five years ago. Indoor birds, domestic fowl, horses, rabbits, guinea pigs and snakes round out the most common pet types.
Where Are All the Dogs?
London leads the way with the highest proportion of dog-owning households at 49%, followed closely by Northern Ireland at 48%. The North East, North West and Scotland also feature among the highest concentrations of dog owners. London similarly tops the charts for cat ownership, with 41% of households sharing their home with a feline.
More Than Just Pets
Nicole Paley, Deputy CEO of UK Pet Food, says the findings reflect a deeper cultural shift in the way people relate to their animals.
“We are seeing younger people increasingly bringing dogs into their lives in a way that feels more integrated than ever before. For many, pets are part of how they live day to day — shaping routines, supporting wellbeing and offering companionship in a busy world. From morning walks to dinner dates and office trips, dogs are becoming part of the rhythm of everyday life.”
The Pet Population Survey is conducted annually by Kantar on behalf of UK Pet Food. The 2026 findings are based on 8,951 online interviews with UK adults, conducted in January 2026.
