Belgian Pet Care Market

U.S. companies offering fresh pet food, food supplements, medications, training, toys, lodging, and other pet-related services should explore the €3.5 billion Belgian pet care market. The number of Belgian households with pets has risen 10 percent since 2018. Today, approximately 1.3 billion Belgians own pets – or around 53 percent of households. 

Belgian pet owners are increasingly conscious of the health and well-being of their pets. As a result, they are buying premium and natural products, fresh pet food, and specialty pet care services.

Notable statistics include: 

•    Turnover of dog food is estimated at €731 million annually. Belgian dog owners spend an average of €549 annually per dog.
•    Approximately 40 percent of pet owners buy fresh pet food occasionally. 
•    Approximately 50 percent of dog owners and 25 percent of cat owners use trimming services.

This growing demand has led to the emergence of specialty pet food stores and online retailers that offer a wide range of high-quality pet food brands. Approximately 45 percent of Belgian pet owners are buying pet food products and related categories online, and 17 percent are buying food products online only.

To learn more about opportunities in the Belgian pet care market, contact Danny Dumon at the U.S. Commercial Service in Belgium.