Almost half of households in Germany have a pet
A survey has revealed that almost half of households in Germany have a pet. But which animals are the favourite to have as pets in the federal republic?
A recent survey conducted by Skopos for the German Pet Supplies Industry Association (IVH) and the Central Association of the Pet Industry (ZZF) reveals that nearly half of Germany's households have at least one pet. In 2025, there were 33,4 million animals residing within German homes, according to the survey. The figure illustrates the significant role pets play in German society, serving as family members and social companions.
The survey found that 43 percent of German households have a pet, with families with children being the most pet-loving demographic, with 67 percent housing an animal companion. In contrast, only 28 percent of single people have a pet. According to ZZF president Norbert Holthenrich, these figures underscore the importance of pets as integral members of German families.
Cats are the most popular pet in Germany, with 15,7 million felines considered part of a household. Dogs come in a close second, with 10 million dogs living in German homes. Small animals, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and mice, are the third most common pet, with 4,4 million animals in German households. Birds, including parrots and canaries, follow with 3,3 million birds.
Finally, fish are the least common pet, with 2,1 million fish kept in German homes. Some households also have farm animals like chickens or quail.
Written by urgent.news from IamExpat Germany (All Germany News)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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