Top dog loving Nations in the World

Global Dog Lovers: An Infographic

The Global Dog Lover’s Nations

Top 10 countries with the most dogs per person.

Visualized to highlight the differences among the top nations.

*Data is based on recent public estimates from multiple sources. Figures may vary.

A Journey into the World’s Most Dog-Loving Countries

Have you ever wondered which countries have the most dogs? It’s not just about which country has the biggest population – it’s about which countries have the most dogs compared to their human population that signals rates of dog love in this nation. This is what we call “dogs per capita.” By looking at how many dogs there are for every 1,000 people, we can find out where dogs are truly a major part of everyday life.

Dogs aren’t just pets; they’re family members. They provide companionship, a reason to exercise, and a constant source of love and joy. The relationship between people and their dogs tells us a lot about a culture’s values, social norms, and lifestyles. From a farmer’s working dog in the countryside to a pampered poodle in the city, dogs play many different roles.

This guide will take you on a journey to the world’s top 10 most dog-loving countries. We’ll explore the reasons behind their high dog populations, look at popular dog breeds, and discover the unique ways people live with their furry friends around the globe.

The Top 10 Countries that shows dog love

Here is a list of the top 10 countries with the highest number of dogs per 1,000 people. This ranking shows where dogs are an especially big part of life for many, many people.

Lithuania: 300/1,000
Hungary: 291/1,000
Portugal: 269/1,000
United States: 268/1,000
Brazil: 258/1,000
Australia: 237/1,000
Poland: 229/1,000
Romania: 224/1,000
Argentina: 219/1,000
Czech Republic: 210/1,000

1. Lithuania: The Small Country with a Big Love for Dogs

At the very top of our list is Lithuania, a small country in northern Europe. With an amazing 300 dogs for every 1,000 people, it’s clear that dogs are a massive part of Lithuanian life. Why are there so many dogs here?

The love for dogs in Lithuania is a blend of cultural tradition and a modern way of life. The country has a lot of open, rural land, which is perfect for dogs to run and play. Many families live in homes with yards, making it easy to have a dog. In the cities, you’ll see people walking their dogs everywhere – in parks, along rivers, and even at outdoor cafes. It’s common for dogs to go with their owners on family trips to the Baltic Sea or to the countryside.

Another reason for the high number of dogs is the strong sense of family and community. Dogs are not just pets; they are considered full members of the family, and people are proud to show them off and care for them. The most popular dog breeds in Lithuania often include smaller breeds like the Pomeranian and Maltese, which are easy to care for in different living situations. However, larger breeds like the German Shepherd are also very popular for families and as working dogs. The bond between Lithuanians and their dogs is deeply personal and goes beyond simple ownership. It’s a relationship built on loyalty, companionship, and shared experiences.

2. Hungary: Where Dogs are a Symbol of a Happy Home

Coming in second place is Hungary, with 291 dogs per 1,000 people. Dog ownership in Hungary is very high, especially in the countryside, where dogs often serve as both companions and guardians. Many Hungarians see a dog as a sign of a complete and happy family. It’s also a country with a long history of working dogs.

Hungary is famous for its own dog breeds, like the Puli, with its distinctive corded coat, and the Vizsla, a beautiful and energetic hunting dog. These breeds are a source of national pride. The Vizsla, in particular, is a very popular family dog because of its loyalty and friendly nature. Many Hungarians are active people who love outdoor activities like hiking, and these energetic breeds fit right into their lifestyles.

In Hungarian culture, dogs are often very well-trained and obedient, which shows the high value placed on responsible dog ownership. It’s not just about having a dog; it’s about being a good owner who provides proper training, care, and a loving home. The close relationship between dogs and their owners in Hungary is a reflection of a deep-seated cultural value that sees animals as a vital part of life.

3. Portugal: A Life of Sun, Sea, and Dogs

Portugal, with 269 dogs per 1,000 people, is a beautiful country where dogs are integrated into almost every part of life. With its sunny weather and many beaches and parks, Portugal is a perfect place for dog lovers. It’s common to see people walking their dogs on the beach or enjoying a meal at an outdoor cafe with their canine companions.

Dogs in Portugal are often seen as social animals. They are included in family outings and public events. The country has a high number of pet-friendly places, which makes it easy for people to take their dogs with them wherever they go. The most popular breeds in Portugal include the Portuguese Water Dog, which is a big part of the country’s history, as well as breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, which are known for being friendly and good with families.

For the Portuguese, having a dog is about more than just having a companion. It’s about a lifestyle of being active and social. The climate and landscape make it easy for people and their dogs to be outdoors all year round. This shared love for the outdoors strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners, making Portugal a true dog-loving nation.

4. The United States: Man’s Best Friend in the Land of Opportunity

The United States has an impressive 268 dogs for every 1,000 people, placing it high on our list. The sheer number of dogs in the U.S. is a testament to the country’s deep-rooted love for pets. The culture of dog ownership here is incredibly diverse, reflecting the country’s size and variety of lifestyles.

In the U.S., dogs are considered family members, and their needs are often given as much importance as a person’s. The rise of pet-friendly restaurants, hotels, and businesses shows just how much dogs are part of American life. There’s a huge industry built around dogs, including high-end food, stylish clothes, and even special spa treatments.

The most popular breeds in the U.S. are often Labrador and Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and French Bulldogs. Americans love these breeds for their loyalty, friendly personalities, and ability to be a part of any family adventure, from camping in a national park to playing fetch in the backyard. For many Americans, a dog is not just a companion, but a partner in a shared, active life.

5. Brazil: A Tropical Country of Dog Lovers

Brazil has a dog ownership rate of 258 per 1,000 people, making it one of the most dog-loving countries in South America. The love for dogs in Brazil is a unique mix of urban and rural life. In the big cities, many people live in apartments, so they often choose smaller, companion breeds like the Poodle and the Shih Tzu. These dogs fit well into a more compact city lifestyle.

However, in the more rural areas and on larger properties, you’ll find bigger, more energetic dogs that help with work or guard the property. The Brazilian Mastiff, known as the Fila Brasileiro, is a very famous national dog breed, valued for its strength and protective nature.

In Brazil, dogs are not just pets; they are deeply loved and cared for. Brazilians spend a lot on their pets, from high-quality food to healthcare and grooming. This shows that dogs are truly valued as family members. The warm climate in Brazil also makes it easy for dogs and their owners to spend a lot of time outdoors, walking in parks, or playing on the beach. This shared outdoor lifestyle strengthens the human-animal bond and makes dogs an essential part of Brazilian families.

6. Australia: More Pets than People

Australia has an estimated 237 dogs for every 1,000 people. This is especially impressive when you consider that, as a whole, pets outnumber people in Australia! The high rate of dog ownership is likely due to the country’s love for the outdoors. With vast coastlines, national parks, and endless beaches, dogs are the perfect companions for an active lifestyle.

Many Australian households have a yard, which makes it easier to care for a dog, especially larger breeds. The most popular dogs in Australia are often those that thrive outdoors, like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and the Australian Shepherd. Dogs are often a part of family camping trips, barbecues, and days spent at the beach.

Australians have a very strong sense of responsibility toward their pets. Dog owners are serious about providing their dogs with a healthy and active lifestyle. The country has a very well-developed pet care industry, with everything from pet-friendly cafes to dog parks, showing how much dogs are valued in the culture.

7. Poland: A Tradition of Dogs as Family

In Poland, dogs are a very important part of the family, with a rate of 229 dogs per 1,000 people. This high number is a reflection of a long-standing cultural tradition where dogs have been loyal companions for centuries. In Poland, it’s common for a dog to live indoors with the family and to be treated like a child or a close friend.

The Polish people are known for being very patient and dedicated when it comes to dog training. Obedience and good manners are highly valued, which is why many Polish dogs are very well-behaved. The most popular breeds in Poland include the German Shepherd, which is a very loyal and protective dog, and smaller breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu, which are perfect for city living.

For many Poles, a dog is a link to nature and a constant source of joy in their lives. Whether it’s a walk in a bustling city park or a weekend trip to the mountains, dogs are almost always invited along. This deep-seated affection and sense of responsibility make Poland a true haven for dog lovers.

8. Romania: A Country Embracing its Canine Companions

Romania has a dog ownership rate of 224 dogs per 1,000 people. This is a very interesting case, as the country is also known for a high number of stray dogs. However, this statistic focuses on owned dogs, showing that Romanians have a very strong love for dogs in their homes.

In recent years, there has been a huge push to improve animal welfare and encourage adoption, which has led to a major increase in responsible pet ownership. Romanians are increasingly bringing dogs into their homes and families, often adopting from shelters. This shows a very compassionate side of the culture.

Many Romanians are very kind and nurturing towards their dogs. It’s common for a dog to be a close confidant and a key part of the family dynamic. The most popular dog breeds in Romania are often mixed breeds, as many people choose to adopt from shelters. Additionally, large breeds like the German Shepherd and Doberman are popular for their loyalty and ability to guard the home. This blend of adoption and careful breeding shows a growing, deep-rooted love for dogs in the country.

9. Argentina: Where Dogs are a Part of Everyday Life

With 219 dogs for every 1,000 people, Argentina is another major dog-loving country. In Buenos Aires, the capital, you’ll see people walking dozens of dogs at once, as professional dog walkers are a common sight. This shows just how many dogs are a part of city life, even in apartments.

Argentinians have a very warm and affectionate relationship with their dogs. Dogs are often a topic of conversation, and owners love to talk about their dogs’ personalities and antics. The most popular breeds in Argentina include the Dogo Argentino, a powerful and loyal breed, and smaller dogs like the Poodle and Chihuahua, which are perfect for urban living.

In Argentina, dogs are not just animals; they are an extension of the family. They are invited to family gatherings, treated to special foods, and showered with attention. The Argentinian love for dogs is a reflection of their warm and social culture.

10. Czech Republic: A Rich History with Dogs

Rounding out our top 10 is the Czech Republic, with 210 dogs per 1,000 people. Dogs have always played an important role in Czech culture, from being working companions in the country to beloved pets in the city. The Czechs are known for their responsible and respectful approach to dog ownership.

In the Czech Republic, it’s common for dogs to be very well-trained. They are allowed in many public places, including restaurants and public transportation. This shows that dogs are seen as a natural and accepted part of society. The most popular breeds in the Czech Republic include the German Shepherd, as well as the Czech Wolfdog, a national treasure.

The high rate of dog ownership in the Czech Republic is a sign of a culture that truly appreciates the companionship of animals. Dogs are not just seen as a hobby but as a lifelong commitment and a deep friendship.

The Big Picture: Why These Numbers Matter

Looking at these numbers, it’s clear that people all over the world love dogs, but some countries have a truly special bond. The high rates of dog ownership in these nations tell us several important things:

1. A Focus on Family: In countries with high dog ownership, dogs are almost always seen as a part of the family. They’re not just outside in the yard; they’re inside, on the couch, and a key part of daily life.

2. A Love for the Outdoors: Many of these countries, like Australia and Brazil, have climates or landscapes that encourage an outdoor, active lifestyle. Dogs are a great reason to get outside and explore, which benefits both the owner and the pet.

3. Economic and Social Impact: The high number of dogs in these countries creates a strong pet-care economy. This includes vets, groomers, trainers, and pet stores, which all help ensure that dogs are healthy and well cared for.

4. Responsible Ownership: While there may be challenges with stray populations in some countries, the high rate of pet ownership often goes hand-in-hand with a culture of responsible care. People are dedicated to providing training, food, and medical attention for their dogs.

The special relationship between humans and dogs is a universal language, but these countries show just how deep that bond can go. The numbers tell a story of companionship, love, and a commitment to making dogs a valued and cherished part of society.

References

The World Bank. (2024). Population, total. Retrieved from https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL

Dogster. (2024). 20 Global Pet Ownership Statistics to Know in 2025. Retrieved from https://www.dogster.com/statistics/global-pet-ownership-statistics

A-Z Animals. (2024). Comprehensive Guide to Worldwide Pet Dog Populations. Retrieved from https://a-z-animals.com/slideshows/comprehensve-guide-to-worldwide-pet-dog-populations/

Animal Medicines Australia (AMA). (2022). Pets in Australia: A national survey of pets and people. Retrieved from https://animalmedicines.org.au/pet-survey-2022

Abinpet, Brazilian Pet Product Industries Association (2024). Relatório de Mercado.

PetfoodIndustry.com. (2024). More Brazilians are buying pet food, but sector growth is still slow. Retrieved from https://www.petfoodindustry.com/regions/latin-america-carribean/article/15743889/more-brazilians-are-buying-pet-food-but-sector-growth-is-still-slow

Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI). (2022). 2022 Pet Population Survey. Retrieved from https://www.cahi-icsa.ca/pet-population

FEDIAF. (2022). Facts & Figures 2022. Retrieved from https://europeanpetfood.org/our-work/facts-figures-and-trends/

Pet Insurance Deals. (2025). Top Dog Nations: These Countries Are the World’s Biggest Dog Lovers. Retrieved from https://www.petinsurancedeals.com/blog/pet-ownership/top-dog-nations/

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). (2024). 2024 Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook.

PetfoodIndustry.com. (2024). US: more pets, but less spending on supplies and vet visits. Retrieved from https://www.petfoodindustry.com/news/us-more-pets-but-less-spending-on-supplies-and-vet-visits/

China industry summaries (People.cn, Intelligence Research Group, Petfoodindustry coverage) — China pet/dog population estimates (2021–2023 summaries). People’s Daily China Briefing

JPFA / Japan pet food & industry reports — Japan dog population estimates. Contentful Grand View Research

FAS Korea / Korean government pet surveys — South Korea dog numbers. USDA Apps

Chile academic/government analyses (Atero et al.; Castillo et al.; national surveys) — Chile dog population estimates. Medicina Veterinaria ResearchGate

Mexico / Argentina / South Africa / New Zealand / Israel: assorted national reports, market & industry analyses: e.g. A-Z Animals, Petfoodindustry, Dogster, CompanionAnimals NZ, Israeli Ministry of Agriculture. A-Z Animals Research and Markets Dogster Squarespace biu.ac.il

World Bank country population pages / World Development Indicators (population totals used for denominators).

Top 25 Countries rates of Dogs per 1,000 inhabitants

Dog Ownership Rates per 1,000 Inhabitants

Lithuania: 300/1,000
Hungary: 291/1,000
Portugal: 269/1,000
United States: 268/1,000
Brazil: 258/1,000
Australia: 237/1,000
Poland: 229/1,000
Romania: 224/1,000
Argentina: 219/1,000
Czech Republic: 210/1,000
Canada: 202/1,000
Croatia: 191/1,000
Estonia: 187/1,000
United Kingdom: 190/1,000
Belgium: 172/1,000
Slovakia: 168/1,000
New Zealand: 163/1,000
Latvia: 149/1,000
Italy: 152/1,000
Finland: 142/1,000
Slovenia: 141/1,000
Mexico: 137/1,000
Ukraine: 129/1,000
Germany: 127/1,000
Russia: 122/1,000

25 Dog loving countries: Key take-aways

A Strong Affection in Eastern and Northern Europe

One of the most striking observations is the high concentration of countries from Eastern and Northern Europe at the top of the list. Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and the Czech Republic all have extremely high rates, with Lithuania leading the way with a remarkable 300 dogs for every 1,000 people. This suggests that in these regions, dogs are deeply integrated into daily life and culture, often playing a significant role in family and community. In many of these countries, a person is more likely to own a dog than in larger, more populous nations.

The United States and Australia: High Ownership in Vast Spaces

While countries like the United States and Australia have a lower rate per 1,000 people than the top European nations, their total dog populations are massive. The United States has a huge number of dogs, but because of its enormous human population, the per capita rate is slightly lower. In these countries, a love for dogs is widespread, and the expansive landmass often allows for more space for dogs to run and play. This makes dogs a central part of family life and outdoor activities, and their presence is a clear reflection of the cultural value placed on pet companionship.

Surprising Trends in Central and South America

Another notable point is the high placement of Brazil and Argentina. These countries show a significant rate of dog ownership, indicating a strong dog-loving culture in Central and South America. In these nations, dogs are often more than just pets; they are an integral part of the household, living side-by-side with their owners. This challenges the common assumption that pet ownership is primarily a Western European or North American phenomenon and demonstrates a truly global affection for canines.

Sources

Population Totals: The World Bank and United Nations (2024 estimates)

Lithuania: Pet Insurance Deals (via Morning Ag Clips)

Hungary: PetfoodIndustry.com

Portugal: Pet Insurance Deals (via Morning Ag Clips)

Brazil: Abinpet, Instituto Pet Brasil, PetfoodIndustry.com

Australia: Animal Medicines Australia (AMA) “Pets in Australia” (2022 survey)

Poland: FEDIAF “Facts & Figures 2022”

United States: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) “Pet Ownership and Demographic report” (2024)

Romania: FEDIAF “Facts & Figures 2022”

Argentina: Dogster, A-Z Animals (2024 estimates)

Czech Republic: FEDIAF “Facts & Figures 2022”

Canada: Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI) 2022 survey

European dog counts and many EU country totals: FEDIAF “Facts & Figures 2022” (country dog counts; used for most European entries). europeanpetfood.org+1

United States (dogs): AVMA pet population / sourcebook (U.S. dog total used). AVMA AVMA Store

Canada (dogs): Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI) 2022 survey (dog population used). Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI)Canadian Veterinary Medical Association

Australia (dogs): Animal Medicines Australia (AMA) “Pets in Australia” survey (2022) — dog total used. Animal Medicines Australia Budget Direct

Brazil (dogs): Brazilian pet industry / Abinpet & USDA FAS market reports (Brazil dog population estimates). USDA Apps PetfoodIndustry

Chile (dogs): recent Chile national / academic studies and government surveys estimating owned dog population (used ~7M). ResearchGate PetfoodIndustry

China (dogs): industry reports / national press summaries reporting ~51–54M pet dogs (used 51.75M). People’s Daily PetfoodIndustry

Japan (dogs): JPFA / industry reports (dog total ≈ 6.8M). Contentful Grand View Research

South Korea (dogs): Korean government / FAS Korea pet survey (dogs ≈ 5.45M). USDA Apps

Mexico / Argentina / South Africa / New Zealand / Israel / others: national estimates, industry reports or surveys (I used the best available recent estimate for each — see the full reference list below). A-Z Animals Research and Markets Dogster Companion Animals New Zealand biu.ac.il

Population totals: principally World Bank / UN population totals (2023/2024 estimates) used as denominators (country population figures used are standard public national totals). (World Bank country pages / indicator). World Bank Open Data+2World Bank Open Data+2

Caveats & important reservations (please read)

These are estimates, not an official global census. Dog counts come from a mix of national registration, market/industry surveys, academic studies and NGO reports — methodologies differ (household surveys, registration databases, market-research extrapolations, stray-dog counts, etc.). That causes variation between sources. I recorded the source used for each entry in the reference list above so you can check details per country.
“Dog” counts sometimes include only owned/pet dogs and sometimes include strays/free-roaming dogs (the choice depends on the country’s survey). Where possible I used the owned / pet dog count, but for countries with large free-roaming populations some figures are conflated. This has a big effect in Latin America, parts of Asia and Africa.
Population year / dog estimate year mismatch. I used the most recent dog estimate (often 2021–2024) and compared it to a standard country population total (World Bank/UN 2023 or 2024). Years may not match exactly; that introduces small errors in the per-1,000 calculation.
Different sources sometimes disagree substantially. For example, Brazil dog estimates range across publications (40–60M+ depending on method); China dog estimates vary by source and by whether urban-only figures are quoted. I picked what I judged to be the most credible recent estimate but other credible estimates exist.

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Dog Love: Top 10 Dog Loving Nations