Pet ownership in the Netherlands increased by nearly 2% in pandemic times

The research, led by trade association Dibevo and the Dutch Petfood Industry Association (NVG), also unveils that the main reason for pet parents to get a dog is because of coziness.

Most respondents highlighted that they decided to buy a dog due to the ‘unconditional friendship’ and to have a more ‘more active lifestyle’.

4 in 10 of respondents said that there is always a member of the household at home to take care of the dog, while 30% admitted that the animal usually stays alone at home. Family, friends or neighbors are chosen by 22% of Dutch pet parents to take care of their dog when they are away.

A big number of respondents (41%) said they got their most recent dog from a national breeder, followed by online purchasing (20%), family or friends (13%) and a breeder abroad (8%).

One-third of cat owners got the animal through family or friends. 20% adopted the cat from an animal shelter, the same amount that purchased it after seeing an online ad.

The survey, that takes place every year since 2002, unveils that pet stores are the main purchase channel for consumers that want to buy aquarium fish, rodents and ornamental/songbirds. Pond fish are most often purchased at a garden center.