Canada Pet Food Market Size and Share

Canada Pet Food Market Summary
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Canada Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Canada pet food market is expected to grow from USD 5.38 billion in 2025 to USD 5.67 billion in 2026 and is forecast to reach USD 7.41 billion by 2031 at 5.47% CAGR over 2026-2031. Premium kibble reformulations, functional nutrition, and omnichannel retail models are the primary catalysts behind this steady escalation. Premium price elasticity has widened as owners align pet diets with their own health goals, elevating the role of regionally sourced proteins, probiotics, and nutrient-dense inclusions. Specialty retail consolidation and direct-to-consumer models enable manufacturers to showcase differentiated propositions while defending margins in the face of volatile raw-material inputs. At the same time, the 2025 overhaul of the Canadian Feeds Regulations is forcing every label holder to strengthen traceability and preventive controls, effectively weeding out under-capitalized competitors and reinforcing trust in established brands. Altogether, these factors underpin a structural shift from volume to value that should continue to redefine competitive advantage within the Canada pet food market.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By pet food product category, food segment retained 64.55% of Canada's pet food market share in 2025, while pet nutraceuticals and supplements are projected to log the fastest 9.05% CAGR through 2031.
  • By pets, dogs accounted for 37.25% of the Canada pet food market size in 2025 and are forecast to grow at a 6.66% CAGR to 2031.
  • By distribution channel, specialty stores accounted for 32.15% of the Canada pet food revenue in 2025, whereas online platforms are projected to grow at a 7.18% CAGR through 2031.
  • The Canadian pet food market exhibits a moderate consolidated structure dominated by global multinational corporations with diverse product portfolios spanning multiple pet care categories. Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), General Mills Inc., and Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods) are major players, accounting for a 53.10% share in 2025.

Note: Market size and forecast figures in this report are generated using Mordor Intelligence’s proprietary estimation framework, updated with the latest available data and insights as of January 2026.

Segment Analysis

By Pet Food Product: Nutraceuticals Drive Premium Shift

The food segment dominates the Canadian pet food market, accounting for approximately 64.55% of the total market value in 2025. This substantial market share can be attributed to the segment's role as a staple purchase for pet owners, regardless of their pets' breed, size, or age. The segment encompasses both dry and wet pet food products, with dry pet food being particularly popular due to its affordability and longer shelf life. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the increasing consumer demand for high-quality pet foods that support their pets' health and wellness, along with the growing trend of premium and specialized food products that cater to specific dietary requirements and preferences of different pets.

Pet Nutraceuticals and Supplements capture the fastest growth at 9.05% CAGR through 2031, this impressive growth rate is driven by increasing awareness among pet owners about the benefits of vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids in supporting their pets' overall health. The segment's expansion is further fueled by the growing focus on preventive healthcare and the rising demand for specialized nutritional supplements that address specific health concerns in pets. The trend towards pet humanization has also contributed significantly to this growth, as pet owners increasingly seek products that can enhance their pets' immunity, digestive health, and overall well-being.

Canada Pet Food Market: Market Share by Pet Food Product, 2025
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By Pets: Dogs Dominate Across Categories

Dogs command 37.25% market share in 2025 while maintaining the fastest 2026-2031 growth at 6.66% CAGR, reflecting both population growth and increased spending per animal. This dual advantage positions dog-focused brands for sustained expansion across all product categories. Cats represent a stable but slower-growing segment where specialized nutrition requirements create opportunities for targeted formulations. 

Despite having a lower population compared to cats, dogs generate higher revenue due to their larger food consumption and the availability of a wider variety of dog food options from various brands. The segment's strong performance is supported by the rising trend of pet humanization, where owners increasingly treat their dogs as family members and are willing to invest in high-quality nutrition. The segment has also benefited from the expansion of specialized product offerings, including grain-free options, breed-specific formulations, and veterinary diets. 

By Distribution Channel: Online Gains Despite Specialty Strength

Specialty Stores maintain a 32.15% market share in 2025 through educational merchandising and premium brand curation that mass retailers cannot replicate. These stores have gained significant traction among pet owners due to their extensive product selection and specialized expertise in pet nutrition. The success of specialty stores can be attributed to their ability to offer premium and specialized pet food products, along with knowledgeable staff who can provide personalized recommendations based on specific pet needs. These stores particularly excel in the distribution of veterinary diets and premium pet food products, making them a preferred choice for pet owners seeking high-quality nutrition for their pets. 

Online channels accelerate fastest growing at 7.18% CAGR through 2031, this growth is being driven by the increasing preference for convenient shopping options and the wide variety of products available through digital platforms. E-commerce platforms are revolutionizing the dog food industry retail landscape by offering subscription services and personalized pet food options delivered directly to customers' doorsteps. Major online retailers are enhancing their service offerings with features such as auto-replenishment programs, detailed product information, and customer reviews, making it easier for pet owners to make informed purchasing decisions. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising adoption of mobile shopping apps and the integration of artificial intelligence to provide personalized product recommendations based on pet profiles and previous purchase history. 

Canada Pet Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel, 2025
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Geography Analysis

Canada's pet food market demonstrates regional concentration patterns that reflect urban demographics, disposable income distribution, and retail infrastructure development. Ontario and Quebec are one of the major states for pet food, driven by population density and higher per-capita pet ownership rates in urban centers like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. These markets lead premium product adoption and functional ingredient acceptance, creating test markets for innovation before national rollouts. Western provinces, including Alberta and British Columbia, show strong growth in specialty retail penetration, supported by Champion Petfoods' Alberta manufacturing presence and regional brand loyalty. Atlantic provinces represent smaller but stable markets where traditional retail channels maintain stronger positions due to limited specialty store penetration.

Provincial regulatory variations create compliance complexities for national manufacturers while supporting local producers with specialized knowledge of regional requirements. Quebec's French-language labeling requirements and cultural preferences for local sourcing benefit regional manufacturers like Canino and other Montreal-based startups. Regional income disparities influence product mix preferences, with premium and super-premium categories concentrated in urban centers while rural markets maintain stronger demand for value-oriented formulations. 

This geographic segmentation enables manufacturers to optimize product portfolios and pricing strategies based on regional purchasing power and competitive dynamics. The concentration of veterinary services in urban areas supports prescription diet growth through telehealth platforms that extend specialist access to rural pet owners, creating new distribution models that bypass traditional geographic limitations.

Competitive Landscape

The Canadian pet food market exhibits a moderate consolidated structure dominated by global multinational corporations with diverse product portfolios spanning multiple pet care categories. Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), General Mills Inc., and Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods) are major players accounting for a share of 53.6% in 2024 that leverage their extensive research and development capabilities, established distribution networks, and strong brand recognition to maintain their market positions. The market has seen active participation from both conglomerates with diversified business interests and specialist Canadian pet food manufacturers, though the former hold significantly larger market shares due to their superior resources and broader reach.

These pet food companies in Canada have consistently focused on product innovation, launching new pet food varieties that cater to the specific dietary needs and preferences of different pets. The market has witnessed significant operational agility, with companies adapting their distribution networks to include both traditional retail channels and emerging e-commerce platforms. Strategic moves have primarily centered around acquisitions and partnerships to expand product portfolios and strengthen market positions. Companies have also invested in manufacturing facility expansions to meet the growing demand and ensure efficient supply chain operations across the country. 

The market has experienced considerable merger and acquisition activity, with larger companies acquiring smaller, specialized pet food manufacturers to expand their product offerings and capture emerging market segments. This consolidation trend has been particularly evident in the premium and natural pet food segments, where established players have sought to strengthen their presence through strategic acquisitions. Local players, while present in the market, face intense competition from global giants but maintain their relevance through specialized offerings and strong regional distribution networks.

Canada Pet Food Industry Leaders

  1. Mars, Incorporated

  2. Nestle (Purina)

  3. Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)

  4. General Mills Inc.

  5. Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Canada Pet Food Market
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Recent Industry Developments

  • February 2025: In Canada, Calysta and Marsapet have launched the first complete dog food featuring FeedKind Pet protein, a cultured protein fermented without using any arable land or animal ingredients. Produced under its Marsavet line and targeted at animal health, MicroBell dry kibble is a vegan, grain-free, and gluten-free pet food with all the necessary amino acids to keep dogs healthy
  • July 2023: Hill's Pet Nutrition introduced its new MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified pollock and insect protein products for pets with sensitive stomachs and skin lines. They contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
  • May 2023: Nestle Purina launched new cat treats under the Friskies "Friskies Playfuls - treats" brand. These treats are round in shape and are available in chicken and liver and salmon and shrimp flavors for adult cats.

Table of Contents for Canada Pet Food Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study
  • 1.3 Research Methodology

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Pet Population
    • 4.1.1 Cats
    • 4.1.2 Dogs
    • 4.1.3 Other Pets
  • 4.2 Pet Expenditure
  • 4.3 Consumer Trends

5. SUPPLY AND PRODUCTION DYNAMICS

  • 5.1 Trade Analysis
  • 5.2 Ingredient Trends
  • 5.3 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
  • 5.4 Regulatory Framework
  • 5.5 Market Drivers
    • 5.5.1 Rising premiumization of kibble formats
    • 5.5.2 Humanization trend fueling functional ingredients
    • 5.5.3 Growth of specialty retail chains across urban Canada
    • 5.5.4 Surge in direct-to-consumer fresh-frozen meal startups
    • 5.5.5 Provincial incentives for novel protein processing plants
    • 5.5.6 Veterinary telehealth upselling prescription diets
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Volatile meat and grain input costs
    • 5.6.2 Stringent Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) labeling revisions
    • 5.6.3 Consumer confusion on raw vs. fresh-frozen safety
    • 5.6.4 Competition from homemade diet TikTok communities

6. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE AND VOLUME)

  • 6.1 Pet Food Product
    • 6.1.1 Food
    • 6.1.1.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.1.1.1 Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1 By Sub Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.1 Kibbles
    • 6.1.1.1.1.1.2 Other Dry Pet Food
    • 6.1.1.1.2 Wet Pet Food
    • 6.1.2 Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements
    • 6.1.2.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.2.1.1 Milk Bioactives
    • 6.1.2.1.2 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    • 6.1.2.1.3 Milk Bioactives
    • 6.1.2.1.4 Probiotics
    • 6.1.2.1.5 Proteins and Peptides
    • 6.1.2.1.6 Vitamins and Minerals
    • 6.1.2.1.7 Other Nutraceuticals
    • 6.1.3 Pet Treats
    • 6.1.3.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.3.1.1 Crunchy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.2 Dental Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.3 Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.4 Soft & Chewy Treats
    • 6.1.3.1.5 Other Treats
    • 6.1.4 Pet Veterinary Diets
    • 6.1.4.1 By Sub Product
    • 6.1.4.1.1 Diabetes
    • 6.1.4.1.2 Digestive Sensitivity
    • 6.1.4.1.3 Oral Care Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.4 Renal
    • 6.1.4.1.5 Urinary tract disease
    • 6.1.4.1.6 Obesity Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.7 Derma Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.8 Other Veterinary Diets
  • 6.2 Pets
    • 6.2.1 Cats
    • 6.2.2 Dogs
    • 6.2.3 Other Pets
  • 6.3 Distribution Channel
    • 6.3.1 Convenience Stores
    • 6.3.2 Online Channel
    • 6.3.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.3.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.3.5 Other Channels

7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 7.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Brand Positioning Matrix
  • 7.4 Market Claim Analysis
  • 7.5 Company Landscape
  • 7.6 Company Profiles (includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and Analysis of Recent Developments).
    • 7.6.1 Mars, Incorporated
    • 7.6.2 Nestle (Purina)
    • 7.6.3 Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.)
    • 7.6.4 General Mills Inc.
    • 7.6.5 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
    • 7.6.6 ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company)
    • 7.6.7 PLB International Inc.
    • 7.6.8 Sunshine Mills Inc.
    • 7.6.9 Virbac SA
    • 7.6.10 Simmons Pet Food
    • 7.6.11 Spectrum Brands Inc. (United Pet Group)
    • 7.6.12 The J. M. Smucker Company
    • 7.6.13 Petcurean Pet Nutrition Inc.
    • 7.6.14 Freshpet Inc.
    • 7.6.15 Calysta, Inc.

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

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Canada Pet Food Market Report Scope

Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Cats, Dogs are covered as segments by Pets. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.

Pet Food Product
FoodBy Sub ProductDry Pet FoodBy Sub Dry Pet FoodKibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/SupplementsBy Sub ProductMilk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Milk Bioactives
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet TreatsBy Sub ProductCrunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft & Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary DietsBy Sub ProductDiabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets
Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Pet Food ProductFoodBy Sub ProductDry Pet FoodBy Sub Dry Pet FoodKibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/SupplementsBy Sub ProductMilk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Milk Bioactives
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet TreatsBy Sub ProductCrunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft & Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary DietsBy Sub ProductDiabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
PetsCats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution ChannelConvenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
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Market Definition

  • FUNCTIONS - Pet foods are usually intended to provide complete and balanced nutrition to the pet but are primarily used as functional products. The scope includes the food and supplements consumed by pets including veterinary diets. Supplements/nutraceuticals that are directly supplied to pets are considered within the scope.
  • RESELLERS - Companies engaged in reselling of pet food without value addition have been excluded from the market scope, in order to avoid double counting.
  • END CONSUMERS - Pet owners are considered to be the end-consumers in the market studied.
  • DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS - Supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, convenience stores, online channels and other channels are considered within the scope. The stores which are exclusively providing pet related basic and custom products are considered within the scope of specialty stores.
KeywordDefinition
Pet FoodThe scope of pet food includes the food that is eatable by pets including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements.
FoodFood is animal feed intended for consumption by pets. It is formulated to provide essential nutrients and meet the dietary needs of various types of pets, including dogs, cats, and other animals. These are generally segmented into dry and wet pet foods.
Dry Pet FoodDry pet foods may be extruded/baked (kibbles) or flaked. They have a lower moisture content, typically around 12-20%.
Wet Pet FoodWet pet food, also known as canned pet food or moist pet food, generally has a higher moisture content compared to dry pet food, often ranging from 70-80%.
KibblesKibbles are dry, processed pet food in small, bite-sized pieces or pellets. They are specifically formulated to provide balanced nutrition for various domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, and other animals.
TreatsPet Treats are special food items or rewards given to pets, to show affection, and encourage good behavior. They are especially used during training. Pet treats are made from various combinations of meat or meat-derived materials with other ingredients.
Dental TreatsPet dental treats are specialized treats that are formulated to promote good oral hygiene in pets.​
Crunchy TreatsIt is a type of pet treat that has a firm and crispy texture which can be a good source of nutrition for pets.​
Soft and chewy treatsSoft and Chewy pet treats are a type of pet food product that is formulated to be easy to chewy and digest. They are usually made from soft and pliable ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or vegetables, that have been blended and formed into bite-sized pieces or strips.​
Freeze-dried & Jerky TreatsFreeze-dried and jerky treats are snacks given to pets, that are prepared through a special preservation process, without damaging the nutritional content, resulting in long-lasting, nutrient-rich treats.
Urinary Tract Disease DietsThese are commercial diets that are specifically formulated to promote urinary health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems.​
Renal DietsThese are specialized pet foods formulated to support the health of pets with kidney disease or renal insufficiency.​
Digestive Sensitivity DietsDigestive-sensitive diets are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pets with digestive issues such as food intolerances, allergies, and sensitivities. These diets are designed to be easily digestible and to reduce the symptoms of digestive problems in pets. ​
Oral Care DietsOral care diets for pets are specially formulated diets produced to promote oral health and hygiene in pets.​
Grain-Free Pet FoodPet food that does not contain common grains like wheat, corn, or soy. Grain-free diets are often preferred by pet owners seeking alternative options or if their pets have specific dietary sensitivities.
Premium Pet FoodHigh-quality pet food formulated with superior ingredients often offers additional nutritional benefits compared to standard pet food.
Natural Pet FoodPet food made from natural ingredients, with minimal processing and without artificial preservatives.
Organic Pet FoodPet food is produced using organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
ExtrusionA manufacturing process used to produce dry pet food, where ingredients are cooked, mixed, and shaped under high pressure and temperature.
Other PetsOther pets include birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, and reptiles.
PalatabilityThe taste, texture, and aroma of pet food influence its appeal and acceptance by pets.
Complete and Balanced Pet FoodPet food that provides all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions to meet the nutritional needs of pets without additional supplementation.
PreservativesThese are the substances that are added to pet food to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage.
NutraceuticalsFood products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often contain bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects.
ProbioticsLive beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting digestive health and immune function in pets.
AntioxidantsCompounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cellular health and supporting the immune system in pets.
Shelf-LifeThe duration of which pet food remains safe and nutritionally viable for consumption after its production date.
Prescription dietSpecialized pet food formulated to address specific medical conditions under veterinary supervision.
AllergenA substance that can cause allergic reactions in some pets, leading to food allergies or sensitivities.
Canned foodWet pet food that is packed in cans and contains higher moisture content than dry food.
Limited ingredient diet (LID)Pet food formulated with a reduced number of ingredients to minimize potential allergens.
Guaranteed AnalysisThe minimum or maximum levels of certain nutrients present in pet food.
Weight managementPet food designed to help pets maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts.
Other NutraceuticalsIt includes prebiotics, antioxidants, digestive fiber, enzymes, essential oils and herbs.
Other Veterinary DietsIt includes weight management diets, skin and coat health, cardiac care, and joint care.
Other TreatsIt includes rawhides, mineral blocks, lickables, and catnips.
Other Dry FoodsIt includes cereal flakes, mixers, meal toppers, freeze-dried foods, and air-dried foods.
Other AnimalsIt includes birds, fish, reptiles, and small animals (rabbits, ferrets, hamsters).
Other Distribution ChannelsIt includes veterinary clinics, local unregulated stores, and feed and farm stores.
Proteins and PeptidesProteins are large molecules composed of basic units called amino acids which help in the growth and development of pets. Peptides are the short string of 2 to 50 amino acids.
Omega-3 fatty acidsOmega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of Pets
VitaminsVitamins are the essential organic compounds that are essential for vital physiological functioning.
MineralsMinerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in pets.
CKDChronic Kidney Disease
DHADocosahexaenoic Acid
EPAEicosapentaenoic Acid
ALAAlpha-linolenic Acid
BHAButylated Hydroxyanisol
BHTButylated Hydroxytoluene
FLUTDFeline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
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Research Methodology

Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.

  • Step-1: IDENTIFY KEY VARIABLES: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
  • Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the forecast years are in nominal terms. Inflation is not a part of the pricing, and the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period.
  • Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
  • Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms
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