Lexi Webster
Australians love their pets. The country has one of the highest pet ownership rates globally, with more than 25 million pets. Dogs are the most popular pet, with almost two in five households owning a dog, while cats are the next most popular, with nearly three out of ten households owning one. Interestingly, 25.6% of Australians own both a cat and a dog. Dog lovers choose dogs because they are more loyal, fun, responsive, and friendly, while cat owners prefer cats because they are quieter, easier to keep in small spaces, cleaner, less smelly, and more independent.
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What You'll Learn
Dogs are the most popular pet in Australia
Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world, with approximately 69% of households owning pets. Dogs are the most popular pets in Australia, with almost half of Australian households owning a dog. In fact, dogs are the most common pets in Australia, with 48% of all pets being dogs. This equates to over 6 million dogs in total.
The popularity of dogs in Australia is reflected in the higher expenditure on dogs compared to other pets. Dog owners spent an estimated average of $3218 per dog in 2022, while cat owners spent an average of $1715 per cat. Dogs also lead the way in total expenditure by pet type, with $7 billion spent on dogs compared to $4 billion on cats.
There are several reasons why dogs are so popular in Australia. Firstly, dogs are often considered to be man's best friend, offering companionship, affection, and comfort. This is especially true in Australia, where the majority of pet owners are young couples and couples with dependent children. Dogs are also well-suited to the Australian lifestyle, as the country has a high proportion of detached houses that provide ample space for dogs to live and play. Additionally, those who grew up with pets during childhood are more likely to own pets as adults, and with Australia's high pet ownership rates, it is likely that many Australians grew up with dogs.
The popularity of dogs in Australia is further evidenced by the increasing trend of viewing dogs as part of the family. In 2016, 65% of households with dogs considered their dogs to be family members, reflecting the strong bond between Australians and their canine companions. Overall, it is clear that dogs hold a special place in the hearts of Australians, making them the most popular pet choice in the country.
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Cats are the second most popular pet
While dogs are the most popular pet in Australia, with around 48% of pet owners having a dog, cats are a close second. The high rate of cat ownership in Australia is reflected in the significant expenditure on cat-related products and services. In 2016, expenditure on cats was close to $4 billion. More recently, in 2022, cat owners spent an estimated average of $1715 per animal each year.
The preference for cats as pets in Australia can be attributed to various factors. One reason may be that cats are well-suited to smaller living spaces. In contrast to dogs, which often require more space, cats are more commonly owned by people living in flats or apartments. This is particularly evident in older age groups, where there is a higher proportion of cat owners compared to dog owners. Older individuals may be less inclined to maintain an active dog and thus opt for a cat as a lower-maintenance companion.
Additionally, cats are often chosen as pets due to their perceived independence and self-sufficiency. They are known for their ability to entertain themselves and spend significant time alone, making them appealing to owners who have busy schedules or are away from home during the day. Cats are also generally considered to be lower maintenance than dogs in terms of grooming and exercise requirements, which may be a factor in their popularity.
Furthermore, cats have unique personalities and can form strong bonds with their owners. They offer companionship, affection, and comfort, which are among the top reported reasons for owning a pet in Australia. Many cat owners consider their felines as part of the family, showcasing the deep emotional connection that can exist between humans and their feline companions.
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Australians spend more on dogs than cats
Australians have a strong affinity for their pets, with one of the highest pet ownership rates globally. There are more than 25 million pets in Australia, with 62% of households owning a pet. Of these, 38% are dog owners, 29% own cats, and 25.6% own both a cat and a dog. Australians are willing to spend a significant amount of money on their pets, with an average of $115 spent per month. This expenditure often takes priority over other lifestyle items, and many would go to great lengths to save their pets if they fell ill.
Dog owners constitute a larger proportion of the Australian pet-owning population, and they also tend to spend more on their pets. This higher expenditure is reflected in various aspects of dog ownership. For example, dog owners may incur higher costs for food, accessories, care, training, and even specialised items such as dog perfume from luxury brands. The daily walk is an essential part of dog ownership, which can lead to additional expenses such as dog-walking services or dog-friendly transportation. Furthermore, dog owners may invest in training and socialisation activities, such as dog sports or obedience classes, to enhance their bond with their canine companions.
The social aspect of dog ownership also contributes to higher spending. Dog parks provide opportunities for dog owners to socialise and form connections with other dog enthusiasts. This social dimension can extend beyond the dog park, fostering new friendships and a sense of community among dog owners. The desire to provide the best for their dogs may prompt owners to spend more on premium food, toys, and other indulgences. Additionally, dogs' responsiveness, loyalty, and friendliness make them popular choices for Australians, further driving up spending on dog-related products and services.
In contrast, cat owners form a smaller proportion of pet owners in Australia. Cat lovers tend to prioritise different spending areas. Cats are often chosen by those living in smaller spaces due to their quieter nature, ease of maintenance, cleanliness, and independence. As such, cat owners may invest in cat-friendly furniture or enclosures that cater to their cats' vertical exploration and scratching needs. Cat owners may also spend on specialised cat food, litter, and grooming, particularly for long-haired breeds. Additionally, cat owners may opt for cat-sitting services when travelling, ensuring their feline friends receive dedicated care in their absence.
Overall, while Australians spend more on dogs than cats, this is influenced by the higher number of dog owners and the associated costs of dog ownership. However, cat owners also contribute significantly to the pet industry, and the unique needs and preferences of cats guide their spending choices. The strong emotional bond Australians have with their pets, regardless of species, is a key factor in their willingness to invest in their furry companions' well-being and happiness.
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Older Australians are more likely to own cats
Dogs are the most popular pets in Australia, with almost two in five households owning a dog. Cats are the second most popular, with nearly three out of ten households owning one. However, older Australians are more likely to own cats.
According to a study by the University of Melbourne, people aged 65 and over account for 22.5% of non-pet owners and only 11.1% of pet owners. The older age groups have a higher proportion of cat owners compared to dog owners. Dr Botha suggests that this may be because older people are less likely to want to maintain an active dog as a pet.
Among Australians with pets, dogs are the most popular, followed by cats, fish, birds, horses, and 17% have some other type of pet, such as reptiles and small mammals. Overall, close to two-thirds of Australians have at least one pet, with almost 62% owning either a cat or a dog.
The ratio of pets to humans in Australia is around 101:100, meaning there are more animal companions than human companions. Australians consider their pets to be part of the family and spend a significant amount of money on them. On average, they spend $115 on their pets per month, with 25.3% admitting to spending between 10 and 30% of their total income on their pets.
Pet ownership in Australia increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 69% of households owning a pet in 2022. Nearly 30% of survey respondents got their oldest or only pet for their mental health, and pet ownership has been shown to improve the quality of life for older Australians, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and slow down symptoms of dementia.
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Dogs are more popular in families with children
Dogs are the most popular pets in Australia, with 48% of households owning dogs, compared to 33% owning cats. In fact, there are more animal companions in Australia than humans, with a ratio of 101 pets to 100 people.
Dogs are particularly popular in families with children. Almost half of dog-owning households in Australia are couples with dependent children. Dogs are often considered to be a man's best friend, and they are certainly beloved companions to many children. They provide comfort, affection, and companionship, and can teach children about responsibility and caring for another being.
When choosing a dog for a family with children, it is important to consider the breed's temperament and energy levels. Some breeds are more patient and less likely to snap at children who may unintentionally irritate them. Medium-sized dogs can be a good choice as they are often more robust and active than small dogs, yet easier to manage than large dogs. Breeds such as Border Terriers and Australian Bulldogs are known for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and good behaviour around children.
Additionally, smaller dogs may be more suitable for families with limited space, such as those living in apartments. Breeds like the Maltese Shih Tzu, also known as Cavoodles, are compact, affectionate, and playful, making them a popular choice for families. They are also low-shedding, which is beneficial for families with allergies.
For families with older children or more space, larger dogs can provide a gentle and affectionate presence in the home. Breeds such as Giant Schnauzers and Golden Retrievers are loyal, playful, and good-natured, making them excellent choices for families.
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Frequently asked questions
Australians own more dogs than cats. Approximately 48% of Australian households own dogs, while around 33% own cats.
There are an estimated 28.7 million pets in Australia, with almost two-thirds of households owning at least one pet. Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world.
Dogs and cats are the most popular pets in Australia, with fish, birds, and reptiles also being common choices.
