Dog Food Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

The global dog food market was valued at USD 63.10 Billion in 2024. Rise in pet adoption among Gen Z and millennial households, who actively seek ethically sourced and nutrient-rich products, is influencing demand for sustainable dog food across online and offline retail channels. As a result, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.90% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to reach a value of USD 92.51 Billion by 2034.

Market growth is driven by a rising trend of pet humanisation and a shift towards clean-label, functional foods for dogs. According to the American Pet Products Association, the United States consumers spent over USD 65.8 billion on pet food and treats in 2024, reflecting a strong consumer inclination towards pet wellness. This trend is mirrored globally, with pet ownership rising in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, owing to growing middle-class populations and urban lifestyles.

Several governments are also rolling out regulatory frameworks that favour pet food safety and quality, boosting the dog food market development. For instance, the European Union’s Regulation (EC) No 767/2009 on the marketing and use of feed ensures consistent labelling and transparency across member states. Meanwhile, China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) has strengthened guidelines for animal food safety, indirectly supporting premium product development in the region.

In addition, the surge in demand for personalised nutrition for dogs has redefined the global dog food market dynamics. Brands are leveraging AI-driven platforms to offer breed-specific, age-based, and condition-focused meals, with players like Nom Nom and Ollie taking the charge. Dog food, which was once a shelf-based commodity, is now a subscription-first, direct-to-consumer (DTC) industry with immense B2B potential. Suppliers, logistics partners, and packaging firms are exploring new touchpoints in this evolving ecosystem.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

April 2025

In Tamil Nadu, Godrej Pet Care, a division of Godrej Consumer Products, introduced Godrej Ninja, a line of pet food. The company sells dog chow that has been scientifically developed to enhance immunity and digestive health. Over the next five years, Godrej Pet Care intends to invest Rs. 500 crores in the pet care industry. This commitment signals rising R&D-backed innovation and market formalisation in India’s pet food market, with immunity-focused formulations catering to health-conscious dog owners.

March 2025

At Global Pet Expo 2025 in Orlando, Florida, the United States, Natural Balance and Canidae presented over 100 new and reformulated pet food products. The Ethos Pet Brands-owned brands showcased advancements in multi-dog feeding options, customised nutrition, and whole-body health. This reflects the acceleration of personalised nutrition and whole-health trends, shaping premium and multi-dog household offerings in global markets.

February 2025

Using FeedKind Pet protein, a cultured protein produced without the use of any arable land or animal products, Calysta and Marsapet introduced the first complete dog meal. This underscores the growing momentum for sustainable, alternative protein sources in the premium pet food market.

February 2025

Meatly became the world's first company to sell grown meat for pet food. A limited-edition version of "Chick Bites," created in association with the plant-based dog food company THE PACK, was made available for purchase at Pets at Home Brentford in London. Meatly’s cultivated meat-based “Chick Bites” marks a pioneering step in eco-forward pet food, offering novel, ethical protein options that align with the values of environmentally aware pet parents.

Personalization in Canine Nutrition

Personalised dog food is an emerging trend in the dog food market. Emerging brands use pet data including DNA tests, activity levels, and allergies to formulate meals. Tailored diets are gaining B2B traction, with companies like Just Right by Purina working directly with vet clinics. Additionally, digital platforms like Barkly or Dogly are helping brands gather behavioural data for better product formulations. This level of customisation aligns well with the wellness trend across pet care, creating lucrative verticals for ingredient suppliers, packaging providers, and formulators alike.

Clean-Label and Transparency Movement

Consumers, especially millennial pet owners, demand full transparency. This trend has triggered a shift toward clean-label food products, free from artificial additives, GMOs, and synthetic preservatives, boosting the demand in the dog food market. Regulatory encouragement like United States FDA’s updated labelling guidelines for pet foods in 2024, is prompting brands to develop treats with natural ingredients. Additionally, players are now incorporating QR-coded traceability on packaging, allowing buyers to track the origin of ingredients.

Insect-Based Protein Innovation

With sustainability being a top priority, insect-based dog food is gaining momentum in the dog food industry. Companies like Yora and Protix are scaling up production of dog foods using black soldier fly larvae. These products are protein-rich, low-carbon alternatives to conventional meat sources. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has already approved insect protein in pet food. This trend offers opportunities for B2B players in alternative protein technology, scalable farming systems, and sustainable feedstock logistics.

Tech-Enabled Distribution Channels

Omnichannel strategies are being increasingly adopted by brands. Subscription models with AI-powered delivery cycles, driven by data analytics, are rising. E-commerce platforms like Chewy and Amazon have accelerated the dog food market revenue. However, they face disruption from niche DTC brands using predictive algorithms to automate refills. This trend opens up technology integration opportunities for logistics partners and SaaS platforms to support seamless, intelligent delivery systems.

Functional Ingredients in Therapeutic Formulas

The market is currently overlapping with veterinary nutrition and observes a rising demand for functional dog foods that help with obesity, joint issues, and anxiety. Brands like Hill’s Prescription Diet and Royal Canin are working closely with veterinary clinics to co-develop therapeutic lines. For B2B suppliers, this particular trend calls for innovation in bioactive compounds, pharma-grade formulation technology, and R&D collaborations with vet clinics.

Global Dog Food Industry Segmentation

The report titled “Global Dog Food Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product

• Dry Dog Food
• Dog Treats
• Wet Dog Food

Key Insight: Dry dog food dominates the industry due to stability and affordability, while dog treats are growing rapidly, offering a gateway into health supplements. Wet dog food caters to senior dogs needing hydration or easy digestion. Product innovation, ingredient transparency, and functional health benefits drive all the product categories. As consumer awareness expands, even conventional products are being reformulated for niche health outcomes. Brands are expected to diversify SKUs while maintaining clear labelling and sustainability concerns.

Market Breakup by Pricing

• Mass Products
• Premium Products

Key Insight: Mass-market products largely contribute to the dog food market value in terms of volume, while premium ones are rapidly emerging. The former banks on affordability and mass appeal, while the latter depends on differentiation and loyalty. Key motivators across both the pricing categories include transparency, customisation, and enhanced distribution networks.

Market Breakup by Ingredient

• Animal Derived
• Plant Derived

Key Insight: Animal-based ingredients significantly accelerate the dog food consumption owing to their taste and performance, while plant-derived inputs are carving their niche in functional, clean-label, and specialty diets. Mixed formulations are becoming more popular, especially for dogs with sensitivities. As sustainability and allergen concerns grow, ingredient transparency becomes central to consumer trust, pushing B2B suppliers to innovate on both nutritional and sourcing fronts.

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Online
• Others

Key Insight: Supermarkets & hypermarkets dominate the market due to trust, convenience, and bulk availability. Specialty stores offer tailored advice and premium brand assortments, attracting pet owners seeking expert recommendations. Online platforms are rapidly scaling due to tech-savvy pet parents and convenience shopping, becoming the go-to for DTC brands and stabilising the dog food demand forecast. Other channels, like veterinary clinics serve as niche but high-conversion outlets.

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Key Insight: North America holds dominance in the global industry via innovation, infrastructure, and regulation. Asia-Pacific region is thriving with volume growth and a premiumisation trend. The European market remains consistent, especially with its sustainability-driven food laws. Latin America and the Middle East are emerging as niche but high-margin territories. These markets are often underserved, which indicates growth opportunities for local brands. Globally, regulatory alignment, cross-border e-commerce, and rising pet care consciousness are the key focus areas drawing new B2B collaborations across regions.

Global Dog Food Market Share

By Product, Dry Dog Food Accounts for the Dominant Share of the Market

Dry dog food, commonly known as kibble, occupies a substantial share of the market due to its long shelf life, ease of storage, and cost-efficiency. Its popularity spans both mass and premium tiers. Innovations like cold-pressed kibble and freeze-dried formats are bringing a gourmet angle to this category. Brands are also using pressure-cooking to retain nutritional value. For B2B players, this opens new opportunities for offering processing equipment and preservative-free additive development. Moreover, retailers prefer dry formats for higher turnover and lower spoilage risk, making it an appealing product for both traditional and online sales ecosystems, propelling the scope for dog food market expansion.

The dog treats product category is rapidly traction in the market, owing to its role in training, bonding, and health supplement delivery. Functional treats infused with CBD, probiotics, or omega-3 are in high demand. Meanwhile, private label expansion in pet specialty chains is accelerating.

By Pricing, Mass Products Clock in the Larger Share of the Market

Mass-market dog foods capture the largest share of the market revenue, particularly through emerging markets as they are price-competitive and accessible. Their affordability coupled with widespread availability in supermarkets keeps the overall demand stable. Government initiatives like India's FSSAI, are focusing on nutritional adequacy standards even in budget offerings, ensuring quality is not compromised. Multinational players are offering affordable lines without artificial additives to meet evolving buyer expectations.

The premium price range observes stable dog food demand growth. Grain-free, single-protein, and organic options dominate this space. In 2024, a report from Pet Food Institute highlighted that over 41% of United States pet parents purchased premium dog food. These products often require novel ingredients like quinoa, venison, or superfoods. This price category draws investments in product R&D, artisanal production units, and sustainable packaging systems, offering B2B growth avenues.

By Ingredient, the Animal Derived Segment Secures the Larger Share of the Market

Animal-derived ingredients continue to add value to the global market, powered by their high bioavailability and palatability. Ingredients like chicken, lamb, and salmon offer complete protein profiles, essential for active and aging dogs. Global meat processing companies are forming exclusive supply partnerships with pet food firms to ensure quality consistency. USDA’s certification standards for meat sourcing in pet food provide a framework that ensures food safety.

As per the dog food market report, plant-derived ingredients are picking up pace, particularly in hypoallergenic dog foods. Pulses, sweet potatoes, flaxseeds, and algae are now being used to develop nutrient-dense, easily digestible formulas. Companies like Wild Earth are pioneering yeast- and koji-based protein alternatives. In 2023, the European Commission approved pea and broad beans protein for canine consumption. Companies can, hence, find growth opportunities in plant-based protein extraction, emulsion technology, and scaling fermentation processes tailored for companion animal nutrition.

By Distribution Channel, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Maintain their Dominance

The dominance of supermarkets and hypermarkets is powered by their convenience of one-stop shopping, where consumers can purchase their groceries, household items, and pet food in a single visit. This convenience appeals to busy shoppers who prefer to minimise the time and effort spent shopping by consolidating their purchases. Strategic tie-ups between pet food brands and large retail chains like Walmart, Tesco, and Carrefour allow brands to ensure visibility, promotions, and in-store sampling. Innovations like RFID-enabled inventory and pet food kiosks enhance the consumer experience. Additionally, these retail outlets often introduce private-label dog food lines, boosting competition and expanding choices for budget-conscious and mid-tier buyers.

The online channel is anticipated to gain rapid growth in the dog food market during the forecast period. E-commerce platforms provide access to a broader range of dog food products than might be available in local stores, including specialty and premium brands, imported products, and niche dietary options and this variety ensures that pet owners can find the exact products that meet their dogs' specific nutritional needs and preferences. Platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and Zooplus are redefining convenience by offering subscription models, personalised recommendations, and same-day delivery.

Global Dog Food Market Regional Analysis

By Region, North America Holds the Leading Position in the Industry

The North American market accounts for the largest revenue share. The United States, in particular, shows high dog food demand across all price tiers, driven by pet humanisation and advanced retail ecosystems. The 2024 Pet Food Manufacturing Association survey reported that 94 million United States households owned at least one pet, with a majority spending on premium, functional, or fresh food products. Regulatory support from the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine further ensures innovation and safety.

Asia Pacific witnesses rapid dog food market expansion due to rising disposable incomes, urbanisation, and changing cultural perceptions of pets. Countries like China, India, and South Korea are showing explosive growth in premium and mid-tier dog food products. Pet ownership in China reached 121.5 million in 2023, according to Daxue Consulting. Additionally, Japan and Australia contribute significantly through demand for functional and organic dog foods. Local manufacturers are increasingly partnering with Western brands to meet quality expectations.

Competitive Landscape

Dog food market players like Mars Petcare, Nestlé Purina, Hill’s Pet Nutrition (Colgate-Palmolive), and Diamond Pet Foods continue to dominate shelf space and veterinary partnerships. These conglomerates invest heavily in R&D and own multiple brands across the pricing spectrum. Meanwhile, startups like The Farmer’s Dog, Spot & Tango, and Sundays are leveraging DTC models with AI-driven personalisation. They often collaborate with tech firms, veterinarians, and logistics providers to build integrated ecosystems. Moreover, several FMCG companies are entering the market through strategic acquisitions or co-manufacturing deals.

Private label dog food companies are growing in specialty chains like Petco and PetSmart, offering affordable yet ingredient-conscious options. Fresh-frozen dog food, insect-based protein integration, AI-powered custom diets, DTC subscription growth, and biotech-driven plant-based recipes are some of the key trends driving the market. Players are also largely focusing on ingredient sourcing, processing innovation, and sustainable packaging.

Nestlé S.A.

Nestlé S.A., established in 1866 and headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, produces a diverse range of products including baby food, bottled water, cereals, chocolate & confectionery, coffee, dairy products, drinks, health science products, ice cream, and pet products.

Mars, Incorporated

Mars, Incorporated, founded in 1911 in Virginia, United States, offers Pedigree, Royal Canin, and Cesar. The firm integrates digital health, personalised meal kits, and DNA-based nutrition into its portfolio, along with strong B2B veterinary and retail partnerships.

Schell & Kampeter, Inc.

Founded in 1970, Schell & Kampeter, Inc. operates as Diamond Pet Foods. The company serves mid-tier and premium buyers through independent retailers, leveraging co-manufacturing alliances and new production facilities to meet United States and Latin America’s growing demand.

Wellness Pet Company, Inc.

Based in Massachusetts, United States, and established in 1926, Wellness Pet Company, Inc. offers holistic recipes under Wellness and Old Mother Hubbard brands. The company emphasises functional nutrition, freeze-dried treats, and carbon-neutral production across B2B specialty and export markets.

Other key players in the market are Colgate-Palmolive Company, General Mills, Inc., Champion Petfoods USA Inc., RUSSO MANGIMI SP, H&H Group, Open Farm Inc., Annamaet Pet Foods Inc., Pets Global Inc., Primal Pet Group, Inc., Stella & Chewy’s, LLC, Fromm Family Foods, LLC, Affinity Petcare S.A, Canidae, LLC, Petfood Saladillo S.A., and PremieRpet, among others.

Key Highlights of the Global Dog Food Market Report:

• Comprehensive evaluation of evolving consumer spending patterns and brand loyalty trends through 2034.
• Insights into functional dog food innovations including gut-health formulas, breed-specific diets, and insect protein blends.
• In-depth competitive landscape featuring major FMCG players, premium pet food brands, and regionally dominant private labels.
• Regional analysis highlighting fast-growing pet ownership hubs in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Eastern Europe.
• Investment-focused outlook guided by direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales data, premiumisation trends, and urbanisation-driven demand shifts.

Why Rely on Expert Market Research?

• Dedicated pet care analysts with cross-category insights into food, treats, supplements, and veterinary distribution.
• Bespoke reporting formats tailored for ingredient suppliers, contract manufacturers, and emerging DTC players.
• Primary research rooted in pet ownership surveys, supply chain interviews, and retailer stocking behaviours.
• Data-backed insights on pricing, innovation timelines, and consumer engagement strategies that inform profitable decisions.