Europe Dog Food Market Size and Share

Europe Dog Food Market (2025 - 2030)
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.

Europe Dog Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Europe dog food market size is valued at USD 24.57 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 33.76 billion by 2030, expanding at a 6.56% CAGR over the period. Demand growth reflects a steady rise in single-person households, premiumization of canine diets, and an e-commerce ecosystem that reduces access frictions for niche formulations. Humanization of pets strengthens emotional spending, which shields the Europe dog food market from inflation pressures and sustains willingness to trade up to high-meat, functional recipes. Leading brand owners scale wet-food capacity to capture value shifts, while alternative-protein innovators secure early-mover advantages as environmental scrutiny intensifies. Cross-border regulatory alignment under European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) continues to streamline ingredient approvals, enabling faster rollouts of novel nutraceuticals and insect proteins that differentiate the Europe dog food market across price tiers.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By Pet Food Product, Food accounted for 63.3% of the Europe dog food market share in 2024, while Pet Nutraceuticals and Supplements are projected to advance at an 8.7% CAGR through 2030. 
  • By Distribution Channel, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets led with 43.2% revenue share in 2024, the Online Channel is set to expand at an 8.5% CAGR to 2030. 
  • By Country, the United Kingdom held 21.8% of the Europe dog food market size in 2024, whereas the Netherlands is poised for the fastest 6.9% CAGR between 2025 and 2030. 
  • Mars Incorporated, Nestlé Purina, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Affinity Petcare SA, and ADM together commanded 37.4% of the Europe dog food market share in 2024. 

Segment Analysis

By Pet Food Product: Nutraceuticals Drive Premium Positioning

Food accounted for 63.3% of the European dog food market share in 2024. This substantial market share is driven by the regular feeding requirements of dogs and the increasing adoption of commercial pet food for dogs. The segment encompasses both dry and wet pet food options, with dry food being particularly popular due to its convenience, longer shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. Pet owners in Europe are increasingly focusing on premium and specialized food products that offer complete nutrition while addressing the specific dietary needs of their dogs. France's notable consumer interest in alternative diets, with 38% of surveyed dog owners feeding non-conventional formulations, including raw, homemade, or organic options that command significant price premiums over traditional kibble in 2024 [3]Source: European Food Safety Authority, “Assessment of the Feed Additive Neohesperidine Dihydrochalcone,” efsa.europa.eu . The segment's growth is further supported by the expanding range of product offerings, including grain-free options, natural ingredients, and breed-specific formulations that cater to various dog sizes and life stages.

Pet Nutraceuticals and Supplements are projected to advance at an 8.7% CAGR through 2030. This remarkable growth is primarily attributed to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and health issues in dogs, coupled with growing awareness among pet owners about preventive healthcare. The segment offers specialized diets targeting various health conditions, including diabetes, digestive sensitivity, renal problems, and urinary tract diseases. Pet owners' increasing willingness to invest in specialized nutrition solutions, along with veterinarians' recommendations for condition-specific diets, is driving the segment's expansion. The market is witnessing continuous innovation in formulations that combine therapeutic benefits with palatability, making these specialized diets more appealing to both pets and their owners.

Europe Dog Food Market: Market Share by Pet Food Product
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Get Detailed Market Forecasts at the Most Granular Levels
Download PDF

By Distribution Channel: E-commerce Disrupts Traditional Retail

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets led with a 43.2% market size in 2024. This channel's prominence can be attributed to several key factors, including the extensive range of dog feed products available, from premium brands to economical options, allowing pet owners to compare and choose products that best suit their needs and budgets. These retail outlets offer the convenience of purchasing pet food alongside regular groceries, making them a preferred choice for busy pet owners. Additionally, supermarkets/hypermarkets frequently provide attractive discounts and loyalty programs, making pet food more affordable for regular buyers. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the strong presence of major retail chains across Europe and their ability to maintain consistent stock levels of popular canine food brands.

Online Channel is set to expand at an 8.5% CAGR to 2030, driven by subscription services, convenience factors, and the ability to offer niche products that traditional retailers cannot economically stock due to shelf space constraints. Online channels have become increasingly significant, offering convenience and a wide product selection, particularly appealing to younger pet owners and urban consumers. E-commerce success requires significant investments in fulfillment infrastructure, customer acquisition, and data analytics capabilities that favor larger players or specialized pure-play companies over traditional manufacturers lacking digital expertise. 

Europe Dog Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Get Detailed Market Forecasts at the Most Granular Levels
Download PDF

Geography Analysis

The UK maintains 21.8% market share in 2024 despite Brexit-related trade complexities, benefiting from high pet ownership rates and strong online channel adoption that facilitates access to premium and specialized products. Western European markets demonstrate mature consumption patterns with high penetration rates and premiumization trends, while Eastern European countries exhibit rapid growth potential driven by increasing pet ownership and economic development. Germany has sophisticated consumer preferences for organic and natural formulations, supported by a strong veterinary infrastructure and high disposable incomes that enable premium positioning strategies.

The Netherlands achieves a 6.9% CAGR through 2030 by leading sustainability innovation and regulatory adoption of novel ingredients, creating a testing ground for products that subsequently expand across European markets. Dutch consumers demonstrate a high willingness to pay premium prices for environmentally responsible products, with companies like Butternut Box achieving B Corp certification and expanding subscription meal services across multiple European markets from their Netherlands base. Nordic countries, including Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, represent high-value markets with sophisticated consumers and strong regulatory frameworks that support premium positioning and functional nutrition claims. 

Eastern European markets including Poland, Czech Republic, and Hungary demonstrate rapid growth potential as economic development drives pet ownership increases and premiumization trends, though price sensitivity remains higher compared to Western European counterparts. Poland's pet food market benefits from strong export manufacturing capabilities and increasing domestic consumption, while Czech Republic and Hungary show growing interest in premium and natural formulations as disposable incomes rise. These markets create opportunities for value-positioned premium products that offer functional benefits at accessible price points, bridging the gap between traditional mass-market formulations and ultra-premium Western European products.

Competitive Landscape

The European dog food market exhibits a moderately consolidated hold 37.4% market share in 2024, structure dominated by multinational corporations with diverse pet care portfolios. These global players Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Affinity Petcare S.A , and ADM are leverage their extensive research capabilities, established brand portfolios, and robust distribution networks to maintain their market positions. Local specialists maintain their presence through niche product offerings and strong regional distribution relationships, particularly in specific European countries where they have historical presence and brand recognition. The market demonstrates a balanced mix of both global conglomerates and regional specialists, with the former holding significant market share through their established brands and extensive product ranges.

The market has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, primarily driven by large companies seeking to expand their product portfolios and geographical presence. Global players are particularly interested in acquiring companies with strong positions in natural and premium pet food segments, as well as those with innovative product formulations or specialized manufacturing capabilities. These acquisitions are often followed by significant investments in manufacturing capacity expansion and product development, indicating a long-term commitment to market growth and innovation. Notably, Purina's market share has been a focal point in recent strategic discussions.

Europe Dog Food Industry Leaders

  1. ADM

  2. Affinity Petcare SA

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

  4. Mars Incorporated

  5. Nestle (Purina)

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Europe Dog Food Market
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.
Need More Details on Market Players and Competitors?
Download PDF

Recent Industry Developments

  • 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: Virbac acquired its distributor (GS Partners) in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which became Virbac's 35th subsidiary. This new subsidiary allows Virbac to expand its presence more in these countries.
  • March 2023: Mars Incorporated launched new Pedigree Multivitamins, a trio of soft chews formulated to help pets with their immunity, digestion, and joints. It has been developed with the Waltham Petcare Science Institute team, vets, and pet nutritionists.

Table of Contents for Europe Dog 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
  • 4.2 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 Premiumization of dog diets
    • 5.5.2 Humanization of pets and rise of single-person households
    • 5.5.3 Growth in e-commerce fulfillment infrastructure
    • 5.5.4 Sustainability certifications driving brand preference
    • 5.5.5 Expansion of D2C subscription meal plans
    • 5.5.6 Veterinary endorsement of nutraceutical-fortified kibble
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Commodity protein price volatility
    • 5.6.2 Stricter European Union novel-ingredient approvals timeline
    • 5.6.3 Growing scrutiny on ultra-processed foods for pets
    • 5.6.4 Reuse-and-recycle packaging mandates raising cost

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 Probiotics
    • 6.1.2.1.4 Proteins and Peptides
    • 6.1.2.1.5 Vitamins and Minerals
    • 6.1.2.1.6 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 Distribution Channel
    • 6.2.1 Convenience Stores
    • 6.2.2 Online Channel
    • 6.2.3 Specialty Stores
    • 6.2.4 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.2.5 Other Channels
  • 6.3 Country
    • 6.3.1 France
    • 6.3.2 Germany
    • 6.3.3 Italy
    • 6.3.4 Netherlands
    • 6.3.5 Poland
    • 6.3.6 Russia
    • 6.3.7 Spain
    • 6.3.8 United Kingdom
    • 6.3.9 Rest of Europe

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 Affinity Petcare S.A
    • 7.6.5 ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company)
    • 7.6.6 Schell and Kampeter Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
    • 7.6.7 Virbac S.A.
    • 7.6.8 United Petfood
    • 7.6.9 Spectrum Brands (Tetra)
    • 7.6.10 Monge & C SpA
    • 7.6.11 Partner in Pet Food
    • 7.6.12 DogChef
    • 7.6.13 Butternut Box
    • 7.6.14 Deuerer
    • 7.6.15 Farmina

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

You Can Purchase Parts Of This Report. Check Out Prices For Specific Sections
Get Price Break-up Now

Europe Dog Food Market Report Scope

Food, Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements, Pet Treats, Pet Veterinary Diets are covered as segments by Pet Food Product. Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are covered as segments by Distribution Channel. France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom are covered as segments by Country.

Pet Food Product
Food By Sub Product Dry Pet Food By Sub Dry Pet Food Kibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements By Sub Product Milk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet Treats By Sub Product Crunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft & Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary Diets By Sub Product Diabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Country
France
Germany
Italy
Netherlands
Poland
Russia
Spain
United Kingdom
Rest of Europe
Pet Food Product Food By Sub Product Dry Pet Food By Sub Dry Pet Food Kibbles
Other Dry Pet Food
Wet Pet Food
Pet Nutraceuticals/Supplements By Sub Product Milk Bioactives
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Probiotics
Proteins and Peptides
Vitamins and Minerals
Other Nutraceuticals
Pet Treats By Sub Product Crunchy Treats
Dental Treats
Freeze-dried and Jerky Treats
Soft & Chewy Treats
Other Treats
Pet Veterinary Diets By Sub Product Diabetes
Digestive Sensitivity
Oral Care Diets
Renal
Urinary tract disease
Obesity Diets
Derma Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Distribution Channel Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
Country France
Germany
Italy
Netherlands
Poland
Russia
Spain
United Kingdom
Rest of Europe
Need A Different Region or Segment?
Customize Now

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.
Keyword Definition
Pet Food The scope of pet food includes the food that is eatable by pets including food, treats, veterinary diets, and nutraceuticals/supplements.
Food Food 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 Food Dry pet foods may be extruded/baked (kibbles) or flaked. They have a lower moisture content, typically around 12-20%.
Wet Pet Food Wet 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%.
Kibbles Kibbles 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.
Treats Pet 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 Treats Pet dental treats are specialized treats that are formulated to promote good oral hygiene in pets.​
Crunchy Treats It 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 treats Soft 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 Treats Freeze-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 Diets These are commercial diets that are specifically formulated to promote urinary health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems.​
Renal Diets These are specialized pet foods formulated to support the health of pets with kidney disease or renal insufficiency.​
Digestive Sensitivity Diets Digestive-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 Diets Oral care diets for pets are specially formulated diets produced to promote oral health and hygiene in pets.​
Grain-Free Pet Food Pet 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 Food High-quality pet food formulated with superior ingredients often offers additional nutritional benefits compared to standard pet food.
Natural Pet Food Pet food made from natural ingredients, with minimal processing and without artificial preservatives.
Organic Pet Food Pet food is produced using organic ingredients, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Extrusion A manufacturing process used to produce dry pet food, where ingredients are cooked, mixed, and shaped under high pressure and temperature.
Other Pets Other pets include birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, and reptiles.
Palatability The taste, texture, and aroma of pet food influence its appeal and acceptance by pets.
Complete and Balanced Pet Food Pet food that provides all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions to meet the nutritional needs of pets without additional supplementation.
Preservatives These are the substances that are added to pet food to extend its shelf life and prevent spoilage.
Nutraceuticals Food products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often contain bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic effects.
Probiotics Live beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora, supporting digestive health and immune function in pets.
Antioxidants Compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cellular health and supporting the immune system in pets.
Shelf-Life The duration of which pet food remains safe and nutritionally viable for consumption after its production date.
Prescription diet Specialized pet food formulated to address specific medical conditions under veterinary supervision.
Allergen A substance that can cause allergic reactions in some pets, leading to food allergies or sensitivities.
Canned food Wet 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 Analysis The minimum or maximum levels of certain nutrients present in pet food.
Weight management Pet food designed to help pets maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts.
Other Nutraceuticals It includes prebiotics, antioxidants, digestive fiber, enzymes, essential oils and herbs.
Other Veterinary Diets It includes weight management diets, skin and coat health, cardiac care, and joint care.
Other Treats It includes rawhides, mineral blocks, lickables, and catnips.
Other Dry Foods It includes cereal flakes, mixers, meal toppers, freeze-dried foods, and air-dried foods.
Other Animals It includes birds, fish, reptiles, and small animals (rabbits, ferrets, hamsters).
Other Distribution Channels It includes veterinary clinics, local unregulated stores, and feed and farm stores.
Proteins and Peptides Proteins 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 acids Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of Pets
Vitamins Vitamins are the essential organic compounds that are essential for vital physiological functioning.
Minerals Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in pets.
CKD Chronic Kidney Disease
DHA Docosahexaenoic Acid
EPA Eicosapentaenoic Acid
ALA Alpha-linolenic Acid
BHA Butylated Hydroxyanisol
BHT Butylated Hydroxytoluene
FLUTD Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Need More Details on Market Definition?
Ask a Question

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
research-methodology
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.
Get More Details On Research Methodology
Download PDF