Germany Pet Food Market Size and Share

Germany Pet Food Market (2025 - 2030)
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Germany Pet Food Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Germany pet food market stands at USD 7.75 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to reach USD 9.80 billion by 2030, registering a 4.79% CAGR during the period. This current size and growth trajectory reflect the country’s position as the largest national segment within European pet care. In 2024, expansion is fueled by high ownership of 34.4 million companion animals and strong household spending on premium nutrition, functional treats, and veterinary-endorsed diets [1]Source: Zentralverband Zoologischer Fachbetriebe, “German Pet Industry Statistics 2024,” ZZF.DE. Rising disposable income, demographic shifts toward single-person households, and the rapid uptake of digital purchase paths sustain demand momentum, while regulatory emphasis on clean-label ingredients reinforces consumer trust. Producers capitalize on premiumization, regenerative agriculture sourcing, and omnichannel reach, whereas discounters and private-label innovations intensify price competition. Cost volatility for poultry, grains, and specialty proteins introduces margin pressure, yet robust brand equity in premium formats enables selective price pass-through.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By pet food product type, food accounted for 68.3% of Germany pet food market share in 2024, while pet treats are poised to expand at a 7.6% CAGR to 2030.
  • By pet, cats led with 45.9% revenue share in 2024, while dogs are projected to advance at a 5.4% CAGR through 2030.
  • By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets controlled 39.1% of Germany pet food market size in 2024, whereas online platforms are forecast to grow at a 6.2% CAGR over the same horizon.
  • The German pet food market exhibits a fragmented structure, where global corporations and regional specialists maintain significant market positions. Major companies, including Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods), and Heristo Aktiengesellschaft, dominate the market with a share of 25.3% in 2024.

Segment Analysis

By Pet Food Product: Treats Drive Premium Category Expansion

The traditional pet food segment maintains a dominant 68.3% market share in 2024, showing steady but moderate growth. This segment's stability stems from consistent pet feeding requirements and the ongoing transition from home-cooked to commercial pet food products. The market benefits from Germany's growing pet population and increased pet humanization, as owners prioritize high-quality commercial food products for their pets' daily nutrition. Dry pet food, including kibbles and alternative formats, adapts through premiumization strategies that incorporate functional ingredients, grain-free formulations, and human-grade sourcing to maintain relevance against the growing trends of fresh and raw feeding. 

Pet treats are projected to demonstrate robust growth potential with a 7.6% CAGR through 2030. This growth is primarily driven by increased treat usage in dog training and reward systems. Product innovation, including dental treats, freeze-dried options, and functional varieties with health benefits, supports market expansion. Freeze-dried and jerky treats gain traction due to their use of human-grade ingredients and clean-label formulations, while dental treats benefit from veterinary recommendations. The segment's growth is further supported by rising awareness of positive reinforcement training methods and increasing demand for premium, natural treat options.

Germany Pet Food Market: Market Share by Pet Food Product
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By Pets: Dogs Accelerate Through Functional Nutrition Adoption

Cats maintain a larger 45.9% market share in 2024, reflecting distinct consumption patterns and owner investment behaviors across species. Cat nutrition is evolving toward specialized formulations that address indoor lifestyle challenges, urinary tract health, and age-related conditions, although growth rates lag behind canine expansion due to lower per-pet spending patterns and traditional feeding preferences. Germany has 15.9 million house cats in 2024, making them the most popular pets in the country. The high adoption of cats is mainly due to their greater adaptability to smaller living spaces than dogs and their ability to stay indoors without feeling cooped up. Favorable cultural attitudes toward cats further contribute to their high adoption rates in Germany.

Dogs represent the fastest-growing pet segment, with a 5.4% CAGR through 2030. Dog owners demonstrate higher per-pet spending on functional nutrition, treats, and supplements, driven by larger body sizes that require greater food volumes and active lifestyles that demand performance-oriented nutrition. The canine segment particularly benefits from veterinary endorsement of joint-health formulations, weight management diets, and breed-specific nutrition that commands premium pricing through targeted positioning. Subscription services and direct-to-consumer brands achieve higher penetration rates among dog owners who view personalized nutrition as essential for pet health and longevity.

By Distribution Channel: E-commerce Disrupts Traditional Retail Dominance

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are anticipated to maintain a dominant 39.1% market share in 2024, driven by advantages in convenience, selection breadth, and competitive pricing. These retail channels have established themselves as the primary destination for pet food purchases due to their extensive nationwide presence and convenience factor. Major retail chains, such as Edeka with over 11,000 stores, Auditing Association of Westkauf Cooperatives (REWE) with approximately 6,700 stores, and Lidl and Kaufland with nearly 4,000 combined stores, provide widespread accessibility across Germany. These channels particularly excel in offering a comprehensive range of pet food products, from standard daily nutrition to specialized dietary options, while maintaining competitive pricing through regular promotions and bulk purchase discounts.

Online channels are projected to accelerate at a 6.2% CAGR through 2030, driven by the growth of subscription services, bulk purchasing options, and the proliferation of direct-to-consumer brands. The channel shift particularly benefits premium and specialized products that require detailed product information and customer education, areas where online platforms excel through content marketing and customer reviews. Zooplus and Fressnapf lead omnichannel strategies that integrate online convenience with physical store expertise, while Amazon's marketplace expansion creates additional competitive pressure on traditional retailers.

Germany Pet Food Market: Market Share by Distribution Channel
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Geography Analysis

Germany represents Europe's largest pet care market, with unique characteristics that distinguish it from broader European trends, particularly in terms of regulatory stringency, consumer premiumization preferences, and distribution channel evolution. In 2024, the market benefits from high pet ownership rates of 44% among households, supported by cultural attitudes that treat pets as family members and demographic trends toward single-person households, resulting in concentrated pet spending. 

Regional variations within Germany reveal that urban centers, such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, drive the adoption of premium products and e-commerce penetration, while rural areas maintain traditional purchasing patterns through specialty stores and agricultural cooperatives. The country's economic stability and high disposable income levels support sustained growth in discretionary pet spending categories, particularly treats, supplements, and functional nutrition products.

German regulatory leadership through the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) often sets precedents for broader European harmonization, creating both opportunities and challenges for manufacturers operating across European markets. The country's environmental consciousness drives demand for sustainable packaging and ingredient sourcing, with 48% of consumers willing to pay premiums for environmentally responsible products. 

Competitive Landscape

The German pet food market exhibits a fragmented structure, where global corporations and regional specialists maintain significant market positions. Major companies like Mars, Incorporated, Nestle (Purina), Colgate-Palmolive Company (Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.), Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods), and Heristo Aktiengesellschaft dominate with a share of 25.3% in 2024 through their research capabilities, established brands, and international distribution networks. Regional players compete effectively by understanding local preferences and responding quickly to market changes. The market exhibits moderate fragmentation, with top players holding a substantial but not dominant share, allowing smaller, specialized manufacturers to succeed in specific niches.

The market continues to evolve through mergers and acquisitions, as larger companies expand their product portfolios and enter specialized market segments. Acquisitions focus on companies with strong positions in premium pet food, natural and organic offerings, and innovative product formulations. Global companies target regional players to strengthen their presence in the German market, creating a gradual trend of consolidation while maintaining competitive diversity.

Companies differentiate themselves through technological advancement, including AI-driven nutrition formulation, supply chain automation, and direct-to-consumer platforms that reduce retail markups while gathering customer data. New market entrants gain market share through sustainable practices, alternative protein sources, and subscription models, particularly among urban consumers focused on environmental responsibility and personalized pet care.

Germany Pet Food Industry Leaders

  1. Mars, Incorporated

  2. Nestle (Purina)

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

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

  5. Heristo aktiengesellschaft

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

  • April 2024: General Mills expanded its pet food portfolio by acquiring Edgard & Cooper, aligning with its Accelerate strategy. Edgard & Cooper, a prominent independent pet food company in Europe, generated retail sales exceeding EUR 100 million (USD 116.3 million) across 13 markets in 2023. The company serves the German market through omnichannel distribution, providing high-quality dog and cat food while maintaining a focus on sustainability.
  • 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.
  • 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 Germany 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 Premiumization and human-grade formulations
    • 5.5.2 Surge in single-person households
    • 5.5.3 Veterinary endorsement of functional diets
    • 5.5.4 Expansion of private-label super-premium lines
    • 5.5.5 In-store fresh frozen rollouts by German discounters
    • 5.5.6 DTC subscription services with AI-based meal plans
  • 5.6 Market Restraints
    • 5.6.1 Rising raw-meat and grain prices
    • 5.6.2 Stringent German feed additive regulations
    • 5.6.3 Vet-Led pushback on grain-free diet claims
    • 5.6.4 Consumer skepticism toward insect protein

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
    • 6.1.2.2 Milk Bioactives
    • 6.1.2.3 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    • 6.1.2.4 Probiotics
    • 6.1.2.5 Proteins and Peptides
    • 6.1.2.6 Vitamins and Minerals
    • 6.1.2.7 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 Derma Diets
    • 6.1.4.1.7 Obesity 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 Affinity Petcare S.A
    • 7.6.6 Schell & Kampeter, Inc. (Diamond Pet Foods)
    • 7.6.7 Heristo aktiengesellschaft
    • 7.6.8 Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. (Wellness Pet Company, Inc.)
    • 7.6.9 Alltech
    • 7.6.10 Virbac
    • 7.6.11 Mera Tiernahrung GmbH
    • 7.6.12 Farmina Pet Foods Holding Ltd. (Russo Family)
    • 7.6.13 Bosch Tiernahrung GmbH and Co. KG
    • 7.6.14 United Petfood Group
    • 7.6.15 Deuerer GmbH

8. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR PET FOOD CEOS

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Germany Pet Food Market Report Scope

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

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
Derma Diets
Obesity Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets
Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel
Convenience Stores
Online Channel
Specialty Stores
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Other Channels
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
Derma Diets
Obesity Diets
Other Veterinary Diets
Pets Cats
Dogs
Other Pets
Distribution Channel Convenience 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.
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
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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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