Globally, the majority (57%) of consumers own pets, according to over 27,000 online consumers (ages 15 or older) whom GfK surveyed. Dogs are the most popular pet globally, owned by 33% of respondents, with cats coming in second, at 23%. Fish (12%), birds (6%), and other pet types (6%) all rank significantly lower.
Argentina, Mexico and Brazil have the highest rates of overall pet ownership among the 22 countries (82%, 81%, 76%), with dogs being the most popular pet in all three nations.
US men, women report similar levels
The research shows significant similarities in pet ownership metrics among US men and women. Only 28% of men and 31% of women report not owning any pets. In results that echo the global averages, men and women report almost identical levels of ownership for dogs (52%, men; 48%, women), cats (40%, men; 38%, women) and fish (12%, men; 10% women). The only significant differences lie in the categories of birds and “other” pets; US men are more likely to own birds (7%, versus 4% for women), while US women are more likely to own other types of pets (7%) than birds (4%).
Explore GfK’s global studies overview
About the study
GfK conducted an online survey with over 27,000 consumers aged 15 or older in 22 markets. Fieldwork was completed in June 2015 and data are weighted to reflect the demographic composition of the online population age 15+ in each market. The markets included are Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, UK and USA.
About GfK
GfK is the trusted source of relevant market and consumer information that enables its clients to make smarter decisions. More than 13,000 market research experts combine their passion with GfK’s long-standing data science experience. This allows GfK to deliver vital global insights matched with local market intelligence from more than 100 countries. By using innovative technologies and data sciences, GfK turns big data into smart data, enabling its clients to improve their competitive edge and enrich consumers’ experiences and choices.
For more information, please visit gfk.com/us or follow GfK on Twitter.
