Australia is one of the most dog-loving countries in the world. With an estimated 5.3 million pet dogs in 2025, nearly half of Australian households have at least one canine companion. Let’s dive into the latest statistics to see how Aussies care for their dogs. 

Top Dog Ownership Stats – (Editor’s Choice)

• 48% of Australian households own at least one dog
• There are approximately 5.3 million dogs in Australia in 2025
• Aussies spent $33.2 billion on pets in the past year – dogs make up a large share
• $17.1 billion was spent on pet food alone
• 3% of owners cook their dog's meals themselves
• More is spent on dog grooming than pet insurance

Who Owns Dogs in Australia?

Dog ownership surged during the pandemic and has continued to grow steadily. Here’s a breakdown of estimated dog ownership by state in 2025:

Who Looks After Our Dogs?

When Aussies can’t bring their pups along to cafes, parks, or shops, who takes over the leash? Most pet owners rely on family to help out:

• 60% of dog owners rely on family members to look after their pets
• 20% turn to friends or neighbours
• 15% use pet sitters or boarding services
• 5% leave them at home alone with enrichment toys or cameras

Conclusion

Dogs continue to be Australia’s most loved pets in 2025, with millions of families sharing their homes with a furry best friend. From booming pet spending to evolving care habits, it’s clear that the nation’s paws are planted firmly in the dog-lover camp.