Analysis: Pet populations in the Netherlands decline post-pandemic

Households in the Netherlands own fewer dogs and cats in 2025 than in 2021, according to data commissioned by the Dutch Pet Trade Association (Dibevo) and the Dutch Pet Association (NVG).

Based on a survey of 4,000 Dutch people, the group estimated that the Netherlands is home to 1.7 million dogs and 3 million cats. 

Past numbers reported by Dibevo show a decline – in 2021, those numbers were 1.8 million and 3.2 million, respectively. The dog population in particular declined between 2023 and 2025. 

Between 2021 and 2025, the dog and cat populations in the Netherlands decreased by 5.6% and 6.3% respectively. Aquarium fish (-10.5%) and songbird (-6.3%) populations have also seemingly lessened in recent years. 

Cats on the lead

More than 2 out of 10 (23%) households in the country have one or more cats, followed by 16% that own a dog. 

While there are twice as many aquarium fish in Dutch homes as there are cats – 6 million vs. 3 million in 2025 – many aquarium-owning households have multiple fish. This means that just 4% of Dutch households own aquarium fish. 

A similar dynamic exists for songbirds. 1.5 million birds are split between 3% of households.

The Dibevo-NVG report also measured the populations of less common pets. Dutch homes have 4.5 million pond fish, 300,000 rabbits, 300,000 rodents and 150,000 reptiles.

Breeders for dogs, friends for cats

As many as 42% of Dutch dog owners obtained their pets from a breeder, making it the most popular source in 2025.

Nearly 2 out of 10 (19%) found their pets through online platforms like Marktplaats and Facebook, followed by 14% that got their dogs from family or friends. Meanwhile, the share of dogs coming from shelters has dropped significantly over recent years, from 14% in 2022 to just 6% in 2025.

Cat owners mostly get their pets from acquaintances or shelters, with the sources serving 32% and 24% of owners, respectively. Approximately 20% of cats are purchased from online advertisements, the report states.

Pet stores and expenditure 

Pet specialists remain a key destination for pet owners, with 73% purchasing staple food, 58% buying snacks and 59% picking up supplies at these establishments. 

According to the Dibevo-NVG survey, respondents chose specialized shops primarily for their wide product range and staff expertise.

On average, Dutch pet owners spend €68 ($80) per month on their pets, with €53 ($62.34) allocated to food and €15 ($ 17.64) to supplies. Dog owners spent the most on food, with the average monthly cost of feeding their pet being €76 ($89.38).

In comparison, a recent study by the Spanish Pet Industry Association (AEDPAC) revealed that Spanish pet parents spent an average of €66 ($77.62) per month on pet food. Portuguese pet owners spend €53 ($62.33) per month.