Canada Pet Food Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034
Market Outlook
According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the Canada pet food market size reached around USD 5.71 billion in 2024. Aided by the rising demand for natural, organic, and health-focused products, along with the growing popularity of premium and specialised diets for pets, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.40% between 2025 and 2034 to attain nearly USD 8.8 billion by 2034.
The Canada pet food market growth is being driven by the increasing pet ownership rates and the rising awareness of pet nutrition among consumers. As more Canadians consider their pets as family members, the demand for high-quality and nutritionally balanced pet food has surged. Pet owners are increasingly opting for premium pet food products that cater to specific dietary needs, including grain-free, organic, and high-protein formulations. The growing preference for natural and minimally processed ingredients is also shaping the market, with many brands focusing on clean-label products that exclude artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers. This trend aligns with the broader consumer shift towards healthier and more sustainable food choices, extending to the diets of their pets.
The expansion of e-commerce platforms has further contributed to the Canada pet food market expansion. Online retailers and subscription-based pet food delivery services have made it more convenient for pet owners to access a wide range of pet food products. The increasing penetration of digital shopping channels, coupled with promotional offers, personalised recommendations, and home delivery options, has boosted online sales of pet food. Additionally, the availability of speciality pet food brands through direct-to-consumer models has enabled pet owners to explore customised meal plans tailored to their pets’ specific health requirements. The rise of digital engagement through social media and pet-focused online communities has also influenced purchasing decisions, with pet owners relying on reviews and recommendations before selecting pet food products.
As per the Canada pet food market analysis, functional and speciality pet food segments are gaining traction as pet owners seek tailored solutions to address various health concerns such as weight management, digestive health, joint care, and skin conditions. The increasing prevalence of pet allergies and sensitivities has led to a growing demand for hypoallergenic and limited-ingredient diets that eliminate common allergens like wheat, soy, and dairy. Additionally, the rise in veterinary recommendations for therapeutic diets has encouraged the adoption of prescription-based pet food options. With a greater emphasis on preventive healthcare, pet owners are proactively investing in functional foods enriched with probiotics, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants to enhance their pets' overall well-being.
The shift towards sustainable and ethically sourced pet food is also shaping the Canada pet food market dynamics. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of pet food production and are seeking brands that prioritise sustainable sourcing, humane animal welfare practices, and eco-friendly packaging. Plant-based and alternative protein sources, such as insect-based and lab-grown proteins, are emerging as viable options for pet food formulations, addressing concerns related to overfishing and livestock farming emissions. As the demand for sustainable pet food continues to rise, manufacturers are innovating with new ingredients and production methods to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining the nutritional integrity of their products.
The increasing humanisation of pets leading to the popularity of gourmet and indulgent pet food options, including fresh, raw, and freeze-dried diets that mimic human-grade meals is boosting the Canada pet food market revenue. Pet owners are showing a preference for meal plans that offer a variety of flavours, textures, and ingredients, reflecting their own dietary preferences. The trend of pet meal customization has also led to the growth of fresh pet food services that prepare and deliver refrigerated meals tailored to pets’ specific needs. This demand for fresh and minimally processed pet food options has encouraged manufacturers to invest in refrigeration and cold-chain logistics to ensure product freshness and quality.
Despite the positive market outlook, the Canada pet food market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory compliance. The rising costs of meat and grain-based ingredients have led to price increases in pet food products, impacting consumer purchasing behaviour. Additionally, regulatory standards related to pet food labelling, ingredient sourcing, and safety testing require manufacturers to maintain high-quality standards while ensuring transparency in product formulations. The increasing scrutiny over pet food recalls and contamination risks has also placed greater responsibility on brands to implement stringent quality control measures.
The Canada pet food market is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the forecast period, driven by evolving consumer preferences, advancements in pet nutrition, and the expansion of digital retail channels. The focus on premiumisation, sustainability, and functional benefits will remain key factors shaping market developments. As pet owners become more informed and engaged in their pets' dietary choices, the demand for high-quality, specialised, and ethically produced pet food is likely to increase. Innovation in ingredient sourcing, processing technologies, and personalised pet nutrition solutions will play a crucial role in sustaining market expansion and meeting the diverse needs of modern pet owners in Canada.
Market Segmentation
The market can be divided based on pet type, form, ingredient type, pricing type, distribution channel, and region.
Market Breakup by Pet Type
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