The pet industry in Denmark

Denmark’s pet industry is shifting toward sustainability and innovation, with eco-conscious pet owners driving demand for environmentally friendly products. Despite a slight decline in the pet population, the market is adapting, offering new opportunities for businesses to meet changing preferences.

Pet population in Denmark

As of 2023, Denmark’s pet population comprised approximately 698,000 cats and 643,000 dogs. The number of newly registered pet dogs in Denmark has fluctuated, with about 19,300 new registrations in 2024.

In addition, the country’s pet reptile population stands at around 115,000, according to Statista. However, recent trends indicate a decline in the overall pet population, largely attributed to rising living costs and a return to pre-pandemic routines.

There has been a noticeable shift in the types of dog breeds chosen, with a preference for smaller breeds over larger ones and a reduction in the number of new dog registrations compared to previous years.

Size of the pet care market in Denmark

Denmark’s pet industry demonstrates steady growth across various segments. According to Statista, the pet food market is projected to generate $291.6 million (€280.60M) in revenue by 2025, with a per capita revenue of $48.90 (€47.01) and a projected compound annual growth rate of 3.24% (CAGR 2025-2029).

The market volume is expected to reach 104.1 million kilograms by 2029, growing 1.4% annually in 2026. The average per capita consumption is expected to be 16.5 kilograms in 2025.

Next Move Strategy Consulting reports that the Danish pet food ingredients market, valued at $388.4 million (€373.9M) in 2023, is projected to reach $815.6 million (€785.1M) by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.7%.

In volume, it is expected to increase from 46.2 kilotons in 2023 to 78.3 kilotons by 2030 (CAGR 7.4%). This growth is fueled by rising disposable incomes, enabling pet owners to invest in premium, high-quality pet food.

In 2023, Denmark’s pet services market generated $131.1 million (€126.2M) and is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 9.5%, reaching $247.4 million (€238.1M) by 2030. According to Grand View Research, Inc., boarding remains the largest revenue segment, while pet sitting is the fastest-growing service.

According to MarketResearch, despite challenges, such as a shrinking pet population and slower demand for pet products due to rising living costs and post-pandemic shifts, Denmark continues to lead as the fastest-growing pet services market in Europe, representing 0.7% of the global market in 2023.

Pet retailers in Denmark

Denmark’s pet retail market is dominated by key players catering to both online and in-store shoppers.

As reported by EcommerceDB, Zooplus.dk leads the sector as a dominant online pet supply platform.

Maxi Zoo follows closely behind with a well-established presence in both physical stores and e-commerce.

Coop.dk also stands out as a significant online retailer that offers a wide range of pet products.