In a fascinating shift that highlights changing lifestyles and priorities, pets now outnumber kids in Canada by nearly 4 to 1.
According to Made in CA which analyzed pet ownership statistics across the country, 77 per cent of households currently own at least one type of pet, with roughly 28.5 million pets in Canada compared to 7.3 million children under the age of 18 in 2025.
However, the real pet ownership numbers are likely to be even higher, as many people may not report having a pet especially if they are unlicensed.
The site also notes that 39% of Canadian households have a dog, while 37% have a cat. 13% of households in Canada have both cats and dogs. In Toronto alone, there are 25,000 licensed cats and 55,000 licensed dogs, which is a vast underestimation of the total number of cats and dogs kept as pets.
This trend is being driven by several factors, most notably the rising cost of living. Raising children in Canada has become increasingly expensive, from housing and childcare to food and education.
In contrast, while pet ownership does require an investment of time and money, many people find it a more financially manageable and still a fulfilling alternative. This has led to more young adults and couples delaying or forgoing parenthood in favor of pet companionship.
According to a survey from last June 2024, 61 per cent of Gen Z respondents said they would choose pets over children.
Statistics Canada reported that it costs around $293,000 to raise a child from birth to age 17, which amounts to an average of $17,235 per year. In contrast, owning a dog costs between $1,418 to $4,485 per year, and averages around $2,800 annually for a cat, according to Rover.
Urbanization is also playing a key role in the pet boom. With more Canadians living in high-rise condos and small city apartments, many find that pets fit more comfortably into their living situations than large families would.
Canadian businesses are also adapting to the trend, and we are seeing more and more pet-friendly amenities in housing, travel, and retail spaces. Toronto has a ton of dog-friendly patios, parks, hotels, and even a dog social club, complete with a cafe and co-working space!
While the shift doesn’t mean that traditional families are disappearing, it does signal an evolution in lifestyle preferences. Visit the Made in CA study here to read more!