New Zealand's unbreakable bond with pets: Insights from the latest Companion Animals NZ Report

Media release: 3 MArch 2025

New Zealand’s relationship with its companion animals remains as strong as ever, according to the latest findings from Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ).

The ‘2024 NZ Pet Data Report’ reveals that nearly two-thirds (63%) of New Zealand households share their home with a pet, a figure that highlights the deep bond New Zealanders continue to have with their animals.

Cats remain the most popular pet, with 40% of households owning a feline companion, while 31% of homes include a dog. Additionally, more than half (60%) of people who don't currently own a pet would like to have one.

Key insights from the 2024 Report:

• Pet ownership trends

  • Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households (63%) own pets, a figure which has seen no significant change in the past decade.

  • Cats remain the most popular pet (40%) with an estimated 1.26 million cats in NZ, followed closely by an estimated 830,000 dogs. The data suggests that the number of dog households has decreased slightly from 34% in 2020 to 31% in 2024.

  • Other pets, such as horses and rabbits, also contribute to New Zealand’s diverse pet population.

• Demographics and ownership patterns: Pet ownership varies by age and region.

  • Past the age of 65, companion animal ownership declines compared to all other age groups. Cats are particularly popular among people aged 45-64.

  • Households with children are more likely to have companion animals (66% to 71%, depending on the age of the children) compared to those with no children (60%). Households with older kids drive this pattern and are more likely to have dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, small mammals and fowl.

  • Auckland households are less likely to share their home with a companion animal than other regions.

• Reasons for having a pet:

  • Companionship remains the primary reason people choose to adopt pets, with love and affection central to the relationship particularly for cats, dogs, rabbits and birds.

  • Other key drivers of pet ownership included familiarity with the animal (e.g., person has had this type of animal before), cats ‘needing’ a home, as well as dogs for exercise and horses companionship and competing/breeding.

• Barriers to pet ownership:

  • Despite the widespread affection for animals, 22% of New Zealand households (approximately 440,000 households) report that they would like to own a pet but face barriers such as lifestyle, cost, and being hesitant about the responsibilities involved. Housing constraints were on the minds of younger people, especially those under 35, being more likely to encounter rental restrictions or financial considerations.

  • Among these non-pet owners, more than 60% express a desire to own a pet in the future, with cats and dogs as the most sought-after companions. 34% of non-pet owners stated that they have previously had pets.

• Acquiring a pet: The SPCA and other animal rescues were the most common places to acquire cats, whereas dogs were more likely to be acquired from a breeder. Private advertisements are a significant source of dogs, horses and rabbits while for cats, keeping strays is a common acquisition route.

  • The SPCA and other animal rescues were the most common places to acquire cats, whereas dogs were more likely to be acquired from a breeder.

  • Private advertisements are a significant source of dogs, horses and rabbits while for cats, keeping strays is a common acquisition route. 

• Responsible Pet Care: The survey highlighted growing trends in responsible pet care, including microchipping, desexing, and vet visits. Desexing rates are high, with 96% of owned cats and 85% of dogs being reported as desexed. Microchipping has also increased, with 72% of cats and 89% of dogs microchipped in 2024, reflecting New Zealanders' growing commitment to pet welfare.

  • The survey highlighted growing trends in responsible pet care, including microchipping, desexing, and vet visits.

  • Desexing rates are reported as high, with 96% of owned cats and 85% of owned dogs being reported as desexed.

  • Microchipping has also increased, with 72% of cats and 89% of dogs microchipped in 2024, reflecting New Zealanders' growing commitment to pet welfare.

Professor Natalie Waran, Director of the A Good Life for Animals Centre, shared, "New Zealander’s strong bond with our companion animals shows just how important the relationship is. As the report highlights, the role of pets in our lives is deeply embedded in our culture – but it is also evolving. It’s not about ownership—it’s about companionship; with love and a commitment to share our lives with them."

She added, "As New Zealanders face the challenges of pet ownership and navigate changing societal expectations—particularly around how cats are managed—CANZ remains committed to improving the welfare of our pets. With the rising costs and time commitments involved, there’s a real opportunity to continue educating and advocating for more awareness of pet’s needs and what support is available. It’s also vital that we keep pushing for better standards, ensuring all animals live their best lives here in New Zealand."

For more information or to access the full 2024 NZ Pet Data Report, please visit www.companionanimals.nz/2024-nz-pet-data-report.

ABOUT THE REPORT

The NZ Pet Data Report is the largest, representative survey of pet population and ownership insights in NZ. Insights HQ were commissioned by Companion Animals NZ to undertake a survey of New Zealand households to size and profile the companion animal population, as well as assess attitudes towards companion animals in NZ. In 2024, the data was gathered between 23 September and 16 October 2024. A follow-up booster was conducted between 17 January and 3 February 2025 among rabbit owners to increase the sample size for rabbit ownership data, however, a population estimate was not available for rabbits due to low rabbit base size. More detail on methodology is available in the full report.

---

ABOUT CANZ  

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use research, education and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.4 million pets registered. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, New Zealand Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).   

The weighty issue: How our love for dogs might be hurting them

National surveys conducted by animal welfare charities and researchers indicate a concerning decline in some key aspects of our dog’s welfare. For example, more dogs are presenting to vets with behavioural problems and health issues, such as obesity. As dog owners, we all want the best for our furry friends, but sometimes our love can have unintended consequences. 

Research highlights the link between our behaviour, dog weight, and overall dog welfare. Obesity in dogs is a growing concern in New Zealand, mirroring trends worldwide. With an increasing number of pets being classified as overweight or obese, understanding the causes, consequences, and potential solutions is crucial for dog owners. 

The impact of obesity on dogs 

Recent studies indicate that approximately 40% of dogs in New Zealand are overweight or obese. This excess weight makes dogs more susceptible to a range of health issues, including: 

• Diabetes 

• Joint problems 

• Heart disease 

• Respiratory issues 

• Decreased lifespan 

What contributes to canine obesity? 

Research conducted in New Zealand and internationally has highlighted various factors contributing to this worrying epidemic. A study carried out by Massey University identified common owner behaviours that contribute to canine obesity, including feeding practices and exercise routines. Additionally, a recent New Zealand-based survey of dog owners found that many underestimate their pet’s weight, leading to overfeeding. 

A survey of over 11,000 dogs (including 80 breeds) in the United Kingdom revealed a connection between obesity and several unwanted problem behaviours in dogs, such as: 

• Guarding and stealing food 

• Aggression 

• Fear of going for walks

• Poor recall (not coming back when called)

The study suggested that many of these behaviours were linked to owners being less likely to exercise their dogs. Overweight dogs were often kept on a leash more frequently, restricting their freedom and opportunities for exercise. Interestingly, the survey also found that owners of overweight dogs tended to have a different relationship with their pets, often treating them like “babies” and allowing them to sleep in their beds. 

Key factors contributing to obesity in dogs: 

1. Owner Behaviours

   One of the most significant contributors to obesity is how owners manage their dog's diet. Many pet owners are unaware of the appropriate portion sizes for their dogs or tend to overindulge them with treats and table scraps. A Massey University study in New Zealand found that a lack of understanding of dog nutrition is common among pet owners. The research highlighted that free-choice feeding  (leaving food out for dogs to graze) was common among some owners, contributing to overeating. Not surprisingly owners who provided measured portions were less likely to have overweight dogs.

2. Exercise routines

   New Zealand research found that many dogs receive less than 30 minutes of exercise per day, falling short of the recommended amount for maintaining a healthy weight. 

   Other studies suggest that their owner's activity level directly influences a dog’s exercise level. Encouraging daily exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight for your dog and improves their overall behaviour through providing more mental stimulation, but it is also healthier for you!

3. Owner perception of weight

   Many owners struggle to accurately assess whether their dog is overweight. Research, including a New Zealand study, suggests that owners often underestimate their dog’s weight, leading to overfeeding. 

   For example, while a healthy Labrador Retriever should weigh between 25-30 kg, many owners reported weights exceeding 35 kg as normal. Understanding how to assess your pet’s body condition and knowing what a healthy weight is for your dog is crucial. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help clarify your dog’s health status.

4. Breed predisposition

   Certain breeds are naturally more prone to becoming overweight or obese. For example, breeds such as labradors are particularly susceptible to overindulging! Owners of these more food motivated breeds need to be extra vigilant when managing weight, diet and exercise.

5. Environmental factors

   Urbanisation and busy schedules, mean many owners struggle to prioritise their dog’s exercise needs. Additionally, it may be difficult to find a safe place to exercise a dog in certain places. 

6. dog age and health issues

   Some medical conditions and medications can contribute to weight gain. Hypothyroidism, for example, can lead to obesity if not properly managed. Older dogs also tend to exercise less, requiring careful diet management. Regular veterinary check-ups, including weight checks, can help identify and manage these issues early. 

So, what can dog owners do to manage their animal’s weight?

1. understand your dog’s nutritional needs

   Educating yourself about dog nutrition is essential. Veterinary clinics and pet stores can play a significant role by providing educational resources and advice tailored to your dog’s breed, age and fitness.  

2. schedule veterinary check-ups

   Routine vet visits can help monitor a dog’s weight and overall health. Vets can provide personalised dietary recommendations and exercise plans tailored to individual dogs. 

3. Establish healthy exercise habits together

   It is key to maintain a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions, limit treats, and ensure adequate exercise. Engaging in daily walks and play sessions also helps keep dogs active and healthy.

4. find community events or initiatives

   Local councils and organisations often promote dog-friendly parks and community events to encourage exercise and socialisation. Dog walking groups or fitness classes can also help dog owners become more active with their pets.

5. Choose healthier diet options

   Ask your vet about healthier diet options and responsible feeding practices to keep your dog in optimal health.

Obesity in dogs has become a significant welfare issue in New Zealand. Understanding the relationship between our behaviours and our dogs' weight is crucial for responsible pet ownership. By making informed choices about feeding and exercise, we can significantly improve our dogs’ quality of life. 

A healthy dog is a happy dog, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they thrive in every way possible!  

---

References: 

1. Forrest R, Awawdeh L, Esam F, Pearson M, Waran N. Potential Owner-Related Risk Factors That May Contribute to Obesity in Companion Dogs in Aotearoa New Zealand. Animals. 2022; 12(3):267. 

1. Gates, M., Zito, S., Harvey, L., Dale, A., & Walker, J. (2019). Assessing obesity in adult dogs and cats presenting for routine vaccination appointments in the North Island of New Zealand using electronic medical records data. New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 67(3), 126–133. 

1. German, A., Blackwell, E., Evans, M. and Westgarth, C. (2017). Overweight dogs are more likely to display undesirable behaviours: results of a large online survey of dog owners in the UK. Journal of Nutritional Science. See https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5468744/  

The science of dog training: three key building blocks

Our beloved dogs hold a special place in our hearts, with around a third of New Zealand households welcoming these faithful companions into their homes. However, ensuring that our canine friends become valued members of society requires more than just affection; it involves understanding their needs and behaviors to promote responsible ownership and training.  

Here we explore three building blocks for effective and humane dog training, shedding light on how owners can cultivate strong bonds and positive behaviors in their canine companions. But first, let’s step back in time to look at the history of our bond with dogs. 

History of "man's best friend”  

The human-animal bond is considered to be over 12 thousand years old and was likely to be originally based on a mutually beneficial relationship. The dog was one of the first animals to be domesticated – transitioning from being tolerated as a scavenger around the early human settlements to being valued as a human companion, in a relatively short time. The domestic dog (Canis familiaris), one of 38 species in the canine family (Canidae), shares behavioral tendencies with its relatives such as wolves, coyotes, and foxes.  

Yet despite selective breeding for various traits and the length of time we’ve had with them as companions, dogs retain many behaviors common among canines. Behavioral problems often stem from a lack of understanding of normal dog behavior and the variability among breeds and individuals. In many areas, we as humans are falling short in terms of meeting their welfare needs. 

Effective training is one area where there is much room for improvement. Even with the correct use of positive reinforcement methods (often called reward–based training), there are often problems, such as: with the timing of the reward, the clarity of the signals and other factors that can cause problems for the dog in making the correct associations. This can sometimes cause a breakdown in training success - which can be frustrating for both dog and human.  

Sadly, this often leads to inappropriate use of aversive training and handling techniques and even the use of inhumane methods to force the animal to perform (or not) the behaviour.  

A way to overcome this is for dog owners is to understand more about how animals learn most effectively, how they are motivated and how they are different from us.  

1. Understanding Canine Ethology (the science of animal behaviour):  

Dogs are dogs, people are people. It seems a simple statement, but it is very important to understand that what matters to them is different to what matters to us.  

Dogs have evolved from ancestors who were predators, social pack animals and with senses far superior to humans. Making the time to understand them and the way they perceive the world, can not only help us to train in a more canine-centred way but also to appreciate the amazing animals that they are. 

Dogs, though descended from wolves, have been unintentionally bred for a more juvenile appearance, known as paedomorphosis, affecting their communication abilities compared to wolves. This altered physical appearance can affect dogs' communication abilities compared to wolves, with breeds like brachycephalic dogs experiencing limitations in facial expressions. As social beings, dogs thrive in modified pack systems, relying on effective communication for social interactions, underscoring their enduring bond with humans. Despite this bond, issues like relinquishment to shelters due to perceived behavioral problems highlight the need for better understanding and management of canine behaviour, emphasising the importance of education and support from professionals in the field. 

In short, we need to apply science to practice when looking after our canine friends. 

2. Intentional modification of behaviour (AKA “training”) 

Dog training can be defined as the ‘intentional modification of the frequency and/or intensity of specific behavioural responses’. This may sound like a mouthful, but it is crucial to know this isn’t about learning commands – it is about reinforcing a particular desired response to a signal in a consistent and timely manner. This is key to your dog making a good connection between the signal or cue you use and the behavioural response you want. 

Dogs learn through making associations between their actions or inactions and the consequence these actions have for them. Successful and humane training relies upon the trainer having a good understanding of the application of learning theory, dog behaviour and a clear understanding of the goals and the limitations of the training approach being used.  

Reinforcers - from theory to practice: 

• Types of Reinforcers: Reinforcers can be positive, such as treats or praise, or negative, like the release of pressure on a leash (not to be confused with punishment techniques), and are effective in shaping desired behavior. Choosing the reinforcer to use will need to take into account the individual character of each dog, since some will be food motivated, but others prefer to work for toys or attention. 

• Secondary Positive Reinforcement: Techniques like clicker training utilise secondary positive reinforcement, conditioning dogs to associate a specific signal with a reward, facilitating training even at a distance. 

• Reinforcement Schedules: There are also different types of reinforcement schedules that can be used to keep your dog motivated. Once the dog has learned the association between a cue/signal because he/she has been rewarded after every correct response using a continuous reinforcement schedule –some trainers will switch to a more variable schedule so that the dog maintains his or her motivation to perform the response, or even get better at it. The differential reinforcement (DR) schedule is where the dog is given different valued rewards that reflect the quality of their performance of the response. For example, the dog only gets rewarded for above-average responses, getting better rewards for better responses. 

 Punishment-based methods, like loud noises or shouts should be avoided. These may temporarily stop unwanted behavior but can lead to fear and anxiety in dogs. Responsible guardians should prioritise reward-based or positive training methods, emphasising the need for humane and ethical treatment in achieving successful behavior modification in dogs. Developing good timing, whatever method you use, is key to reward the response you want consistently and immediately.  

3. Asking for help 

Finally, it is absolutely fine to ask for help when you need it. Asking for help when you need dog training is not only acceptable but highly encouraged for several reasons. Firstly, every dog is unique, with its own personality, temperament, and learning style, making it challenging for novice trainers to navigate training complexities effectively.  

Seeking guidance from experienced professionals ensures that training approaches are tailored to your dog's individual needs, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing frustration for both you and your pet. Additionally, professional trainers possess a wealth of knowledge in canine behavior and training techniques, offering valuable insights and strategies to address specific issues or challenges you may encounter during the training process.  

Moreover, seeking help demonstrates responsible pet ownership, prioritising your dog's well-being and development by investing in proper training and socialisation.  

You can get expert help from one of the Companion Animals New Zealand Accredited Animal Trainers and Animal Behaviourists who only use humane training methods that are based on an understanding of the way animals learn. Follow the link below for more information about who you can approach in your area.   

More about responsible pet ownership 

In New Zealand, regulations outlined in the Dog Control Act 1996 establish legal obligations for dog owners, emphasising care, control, and registration. Companion Animals New Zealand advocates for microchipping and registration, promoting initiatives like the New Zealand Companion Animal Register to enhance pet safety and reunification in case of emergencies or straying. 

Tolerance for our pets by others in our community requires that they be trained and contained so that they do not become a public problem. Being a good animal citizen is essential, and since the dog doesn’t know the rules, it’s up to the responsible owner to ensure that they provide their dog with the correct socialisation and good training to ensure they are an asset rather than a liability.