Vegan Dog Food Market Size, Share

Report Overview

The Global Vegan Dog Food Market size is expected to be worth around USD 25.1 Bn by 2033, from USD 11.4 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

Vegan Dog Food refers to dog food that is made entirely from plant-based ingredients, without any animal-derived products such as meat, poultry, or dairy. It is formulated to provide all the essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive, using plant-based protein sources like peas, lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa, along with healthy fats from ingredients like flaxseeds, coconut oil, and vegetable oils.

Vegan dog food is typically designed for dogs with specific dietary restrictions, allergies, or ethical preferences, as well as for pet owners who prefer a plant-based lifestyle and want to ensure their pet food aligns with those values.

The Vegan Dog Food market has seen considerable growth, driven by both consumer demand for plant-based products and increasing concerns around sustainability and animal welfare. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the global pet food market was valued at approximately USD 24.92 billion in 2023, and the plant-based pet food segment is growing at a rate of 15-20% annually.

In terms of government and private investments, Nestlé Purina has been investing in plant-based pet food innovation. In 2023, the company launched its first plant-based dog food in the U.S., targeting the growing market for sustainable and vegan alternatives. Similarly, Wild Earth, a leading brand in vegan dog food, raised USD 23 million in a Series A funding round in 2023 to expand its production and distribution channels.

On the import-export front, data from the International Trade Centre (ITC) reveals that the U.S. exports over USD 4.7 billion worth of pet food annually, with vegan pet food options gradually gaining traction in international markets, particularly in regions like Europe and Asia Pacific, where the vegan lifestyle is more common.

In terms of government regulations, countries like the United States, Canada, and the European Union have begun setting standards for plant-based pet food to ensure its nutritional adequacy. For instance, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) provides specific guidelines for the nutritional content of pet food, including vegan alternatives, ensuring they meet the dietary needs of dogs. Additionally, the FDA in the U.S. requires pet foods to meet a minimum standard of quality and safety, which vegan pet foods must comply with.

According to The Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Development Authority (APEDA) in India has launched a National Programme on Vegan Products, aiming for $30 billion in exports in the current fiscal year. This initiative includes support for projects related to vegan food production, with grants totaling $753 million for various approved projects.

The Indian government has also allocated $1.5 billion for the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industries (PLISFPI), which aims to enhance global competitiveness in food manufacturing, including plant-based products.

Key Takeaways

• Vegan Dog Food Market size is expected to be worth around USD 25.1 Bn by 2033, from USD 11.4 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.2%.
• Conventional held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 68.3% share.
• Kibble/Dry held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.1% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market.
• Dry Food held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 62.2% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market.
• Dogs held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.1% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market.
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 29.1% share.
• Asia Pacific (APAC) is currently the dominant region, capturing approximately 37.3% of the market share, valued at USD 4.2 billion in 2023.

By Nature

In 2023, Conventional held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 68.3% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market. Conventional vegan dog food is made using standard farming practices, where ingredients like grains, legumes, and vegetables are grown without strict organic certification. These products are widely available and typically priced lower than their organic counterparts, making them a popular choice among budget-conscious pet owners.

The Organic segment is growing steadily. In 2023, it held a smaller but growing share of the market. Organic vegan dog food uses ingredients that are grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Pet owners who prioritize sustainability and health tend to favor these products. Although organic options are more expensive, they are gaining traction due to increasing awareness about the environmental impact of farming and the desire for cleaner, healthier food options for pets.

By Product Type

In 2023, Kibble/Dry held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.1% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market. Kibble is the most popular product type due to its convenience, longer shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. It’s easy to store and serve, making it a preferred choice for many pet owners. The dry form also helps in maintaining dental health, further driving its demand.

Dehydrated Food is another growing segment. This product type is made by removing moisture from the ingredients, preserving nutrients. While it accounted for a smaller market share in 2023, it is expected to grow as pet owners look for convenient yet nutritious food options that are easy to prepare by adding water.

Treats and Chews also contribute significantly to the market, with pet owners using them for training or as snacks. In 2023, the segment gained traction, driven by the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional meat-based dog treats.

Freeze-dried Raw is a niche yet expanding segment. Freeze-drying preserves raw nutrients without heat, offering a product that closely resembles a dog’s natural diet. This product is gaining popularity, especially among owners focused on providing their pets with a natural, minimally processed diet.

Wet Food and Frozen products are more premium options, catering to owners seeking high-moisture food for pets. These segments are favored by pet owners with dogs that need hydration or those who prefer fresh food for their pets.

Powdered Vegan Dog Food and Freeze-dried Food are emerging segments. They are typically used as food toppers or for easy mixing with other meals. Although they represent a smaller share, they are growing due to their convenience and the demand for customizable meals.

By Type

In 2023, Dry Food held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 62.2% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market. Dry food, often in the form of kibble, is favored for its convenience, long shelf life, and ease of storage. It’s the go-to choice for many pet owners because it is affordable and requires no refrigeration. Additionally, dry food helps in promoting dental health by reducing plaque buildup. These factors make dry food the most widely purchased vegan dog food type.

Wet Food, though accounting for a smaller market share in 2023, is gaining popularity due to its higher moisture content and perceived freshness. Wet food is often seen as a more palatable option for dogs, especially those with specific dietary needs or health issues. It is typically sold in cans or pouches and is favored for its ability to provide hydration, which can be important for pets with urinary or kidney issues. Although it is more expensive than dry food, its appeal continues to grow as more pet owners seek to diversify their pets’ diets.

While Dry Food dominates the market, Wet Food is expected to see steady growth as consumer preferences shift towards providing pets with more variety and higher-quality nutrition. Both segments will likely continue to evolve in response to changing consumer needs and preferences in the vegan pet food market.

By Pet Type

In 2023, Dogs held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.1% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market. Dogs are the primary consumers of vegan pet food due to the growing trend of plant-based diets among pets. Many dog owners are shifting to vegan food for reasons such as sustainability, health benefits, and ethical concerns about animal products. The larger dog population and their broader range of dietary needs also contribute to the high demand for vegan dog food.

Cats, on the other hand, accounted for a smaller portion of the market. While some cat owners are exploring plant-based diets for their pets, the demand for vegan food for cats is more limited. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they have specific nutritional requirements that are often harder to meet with plant-based diets. As a result, vegan cat food represents a niche market with slower growth compared to the dog segment. However, as more plant-based alternatives are developed and marketed as nutritionally complete, the segment may see gradual expansion in the coming years.

By Distribution Channel

In 2023, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 29.1% share of the Vegan Dog Food Market. These retail channels are the most popular for pet food shopping due to their wide availability, convenience, and competitive pricing. Customers can easily find vegan dog food alongside traditional pet food options, making it a one-stop shop for pet owners. The large foot traffic and broad reach of supermarkets and hypermarkets also contribute to their dominant position in the market.

Specialty Stores, which focus on pet products and natural or organic food, captured a smaller yet significant share. These stores attract pet owners who are looking for premium or specialized vegan food options. They often provide a wider selection of vegan and plant-based pet food compared to general supermarkets. As more pet owners seek high-quality, niche products, specialty stores are becoming an increasingly important distribution channel.

Online Retail is a fast-growing segment, gaining popularity due to the convenience of shopping from home and the ability to easily compare prices. E-commerce platforms allow consumers to access a wider variety of vegan dog food brands, often with the added benefit of home delivery. In 2023, online retail accounted for a growing share of the market and is expected to continue expanding as digital shopping becomes more common.

Key Market Segments

By Nature

By Product Type

• Kibble/Dry
• Dehydrated Food
• Treats and Chews
• Freeze-dried Raw
• Wet Food
• Frozen
• Powder
• Freeze-dried Food

By Type

By Pet Type

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retail
• Others

Drivers

Growing Awareness of Animal Welfare and Ethical Concerns

The increasing awareness of animal welfare issues is one of the key driving factors behind the rise of vegan dog food. In recent years, more pet owners are aligning their dietary choices for pets with ethical values, including concerns over the environmental impact of meat production and animal rights.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, approximately 70 million dogs and 74 million cats are kept as pets in the U.S., and a growing number of these pet owners are choosing plant-based or vegan diets to avoid contributing to animal exploitation. Pet food manufacturers are responding to this demand by offering plant-based alternatives that align with consumers’ ethical beliefs.

In the U.K., a survey by the Vegan Society found that 10% of pet owners have already chosen plant-based diets for their pets, citing ethical and environmental reasons. This shift reflects a broader trend seen globally, with an increasing number of consumers choosing vegan lifestyles themselves.

Health and Wellness Trends Among Pet Owners

Health and wellness trends, which have gained momentum in human food markets, are also influencing the pet food industry. Pet owners are becoming more conscious of the nutritional quality of their pets’ diets, similar to the increasing trend in human food toward plant-based and clean-label products.

A study by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) indicated that 34% of pet owners in the U.S. are willing to pay a premium for higher-quality pet food, including vegan and plant-based options. As pet owners become more concerned about issues such as obesity, allergies, and digestive problems in pets, they are turning to alternative diets that are thought to offer health benefits.

For example, a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that nearly 56% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese, a factor that has led to greater interest in specialized diets that can promote better health.

Environmental Sustainability and Reduced Carbon Footprint

Environmental sustainability is another major factor driving the growth of the vegan dog food market. As climate change becomes an urgent global issue, more consumers are seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact. The food industry, particularly animal-based products, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, livestock production accounts for nearly 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Vegan dog food, made primarily from plant-based ingredients such as peas, sweet potatoes, and lentils, offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based pet food, which is more resource-intensive to produce.

In fact, a study published by the University of Oxford shows that plant-based diets can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by up to 73%. As pet owners become more environmentally conscious, they are extending these values to the food they feed their pets.

Restraints

Nutritional Completeness and Concerns about Adequate Diets

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pets, particularly dogs, require a variety of nutrients, including amino acids like taurine, carnitine, and arachidonic acid, which are commonly found in meat-based foods. The challenge for manufacturers of vegan dog food is ensuring that their products provide these essential nutrients without compromising health.

A study from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) noted that a lack of certain nutrients in plant-based diets could lead to deficiencies, impacting a dog’s overall health. This has created hesitation among many pet owners, as they are unsure whether vegan dog food can adequately meet their pets’ nutritional needs.

In fact, a survey conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that 38% of pet owners are concerned about whether vegan dog food provides sufficient protein and amino acids for their pets. These nutritional concerns remain one of the primary barriers to widespread adoption of vegan diets for dogs.

Limited Options and Availability of High-Quality Products

Another challenge restricting the vegan dog food market is the limited availability of high-quality and varied vegan dog food products. Although the market for plant-based dog food is growing, it still lags behind conventional dog food in terms of options and variety.

In 2023, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) reported that plant-based pet food accounts for less than 5% of the total pet food market. While larger pet food retailers are beginning to introduce vegan options, many pet owners still face limited choices when shopping for vegan dog food. Additionally, some products may not meet the high standards expected by consumers, particularly those looking for organic or premium formulations.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), vegan pet food manufacturers must adhere to specific guidelines, but these are not always as clear or rigorous as those for traditional pet foods. The absence of a universally recognized certification for vegan dog food products leads to consumer hesitation, especially among pet owners who are unsure whether these products meet the necessary quality standards.

Resistance from Pet Owners and Traditional Beliefs

Despite the growing interest in plant-based diets for pets, there is still resistance from a large portion of pet owners, particularly those who have traditionally fed their dogs meat-based food. A study from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that 47% of dog owners still prefer traditional meat-based diets due to concerns about taste, nutritional value, and their pets’ preferences.

This resistance is also rooted in cultural beliefs and habits, where pet owners have long viewed meat as a necessary component of a dog’s diet. Changing these beliefs and behaviors takes time and education, and many pet owners are hesitant to switch their dogs to a vegan diet due to skepticism about the benefits and potential risks.

Higher Price Point for Vegan Dog Food

The cost of vegan dog food remains a significant barrier to broader adoption, particularly in price-sensitive markets. Vegan dog food is often more expensive than traditional meat-based options, primarily due to the cost of sourcing high-quality plant-based ingredients and ensuring that they meet the necessary nutritional standards.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of pet food in the U.S. has increased by 8.2% over the past year, with plant-based or specialty diets being priced higher than standard pet foods. This price disparity makes vegan dog food less accessible to a wider range of pet owners, especially those on a tight budget.

Opportunity

Rising Trend of Plant-Based Diets Among Consumers

A significant growth opportunity for the vegan dog food market stems from the increasing popularity of plant-based diets among human consumers. As of 2023, a growing number of people are adopting plant-based lifestyles for health, ethical, and environmental reasons.

According to the Plant Based Foods Association, sales of plant-based foods in the U.S. grew by 27% in the past two years, amounting to $7 billion in 2022. This trend is directly influencing the pet food market, with more pet owners seeking plant-based food options for their pets to align with their personal dietary choices.

The shift towards plant-based foods is being supported by widespread education about the environmental impact of meat production. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that livestock farming accounts for around 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Expansion of E-Commerce and Online Retail Channels

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, e-commerce sales in the pet food and supplies category grew by 17.5% in 2023. The convenience and accessibility of shopping online, coupled with the increasing number of pet food options available on digital platforms, are key drivers of this growth. Pet owners are now more likely than ever to purchase vegan dog food online due to the convenience, ability to compare prices, and the broader selection of products offered by online retailers.

In fact, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that 70% of U.S. pet owners have purchased pet products online, and many are turning to e-commerce for plant-based options that may not be readily available in traditional stores. This shift toward online retail presents a major opportunity for vegan dog food companies to expand their reach and make their products more accessible to consumers worldwide.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), U.S. consumers spent over $23 billion on subscription-based services in 2023, with pet food being one of the most popular categories. By offering vegan dog food through subscription services, companies can tap into a new, loyal customer base that values convenience and sustainability.

Growing Concern Over Pet Health and Wellness

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 74% of U.S. pet owners view their pets as family members, and 62% are willing to spend more on premium food products. The growing interest in clean, organic, and plant-based products for humans is influencing pet food choices, as owners seek diets that promote better health for their pets.

The demand for vegan dog food is driven by concerns about obesity, food allergies, and chronic health conditions in pets. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 50% of dogs are considered overweight or obese.

Vegan dog food, with its emphasis on whole, natural ingredients, is seen as a healthy alternative for dogs that need to manage their weight or are prone to food sensitivities. Additionally, vegan diets are believed to reduce the risk of certain illnesses, such as kidney disease or heart disease, which are common in older dogs.

Trends

Increasing Focus on Nutritional Integrity and Transparency

A major trend in the vegan dog food market is the increasing emphasis on nutritional integrity and transparency. As pet owners become more health-conscious, they are looking for dog food that not only meets their pets’ ethical dietary preferences but also ensures complete and balanced nutrition.

In fact, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), U.S. pet owners spent $6.4 billion on natural and organic pet food in 2023, with a notable shift towards products that promise high-quality, plant-based ingredients.

Pet food manufacturers are responding to this demand by ensuring their vegan dog food is fortified with essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which are traditionally derived from animal sources. Many vegan dog food brands are now labeling their products with clear and detailed nutritional information to give consumers confidence that the food is both healthy and ethically sourced.

Expansion of Vegan Dog Food in Mainstream Retail Channels

The expansion of vegan dog food in mainstream retail channels is a critical trend contributing to the market’s growth. As more pet owners seek plant-based alternatives, leading retailers such as Walmart, Petco, and Amazon are increasingly adding vegan dog food to their offerings.

In 2023, Petco reported a 15% increase in sales for plant-based and vegan pet food options, while Walmart’s online sales of pet food grew by 10%, with a notable increase in demand for plant-based products. This shows that vegan dog food is no longer a niche product but is becoming more widely accessible to a broader audience.

Government and Industry Support for Plant-Based Pet Food Innovation

In addition, organizations like the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) are working to expand the market for plant-based pet foods by advocating for plant-based ingredients that are healthy, sustainable, and ethical.

The PBFA reports that plant-based food sales in the U.S. grew by 27% in the past two years, and a growing portion of these sales are in the pet food sector. This support is helping to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative vegan dog food products.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has highlighted the benefits of plant-based agriculture, promoting sustainability initiatives that encourage alternative protein sources. This has led to an increasing interest in plant-based ingredients as a viable alternative to meat-based pet foods.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific (APAC) is currently the dominant region, capturing approximately 37.3% of the market share, valued at USD 4.2 billion in 2023. The region’s growing awareness of plant-based diets, supported by the rise of veganism and sustainability trends, is driving demand for vegan pet food.

Countries like India, Japan, and China are emerging as key markets, where increasing urbanization and pet adoption rates are fueling the popularity of alternative pet food options. Additionally, APAC’s young, tech-savvy population is more inclined towards e-commerce, facilitating wider access to vegan dog food products.

North America follows closely behind, holding a significant share due to a strong preference for ethical consumption and plant-based diets. The U.S. alone accounts for a large portion of the region’s vegan dog food sales, with the market expected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2025. The U.S. is also home to several vegan dog food manufacturers and a growing number of pet owners prioritizing sustainable and health-conscious food choices for their pets.

Europe is also a major player in the market, driven by the rising trend of veganism and environmentally aware pet owners. Countries such as the U.K., Germany, and France are leading the demand for plant-based pet food, with the region expected to grow steadily due to supportive regulations around sustainability and animal welfare.

Latin America, Middle East & Africa show slower adoption but are witnessing gradual increases in vegan pet food demand due to growing awareness of the environmental and ethical benefits.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The Vegan Dog Food Market features several key players who are driving innovation and expanding their product offerings to meet the growing demand for plant-based pet food. Mars Incorporated, a global leader in the pet food industry, is actively involved in producing vegan and plant-based alternatives for pets. Similarly, Hill’s Pet Nutrition continues to expand its range of health-focused pet foods, including plant-based options that cater to the increasing number of health-conscious pet owners.

Lafeber Co., known for its premium bird food, has also ventured into the vegan pet food space, offering products that cater to ethical and environmentally aware consumers. Fromm Family Foods LLC. is another established player that has started incorporating plant-based formulations in its product lines, responding to the rising preference for vegan diets among pet owners. Dave’s Pet Food, renowned for its affordable yet nutritious pet food, has developed a line of vegan dog food products that focus on high-quality ingredients.

Boulder Dog Food Company, LLC. and Champion Petfoods, both known for their premium offerings, are introducing plant-based options to their product ranges, catering to a niche market of eco-conscious and health-focused pet owners. Nutro Products Inc., a subsidiary of Mars, is also seeing growth in plant-based pet food, aligning with its commitment to producing natural and sustainable pet food options.

Evanger’s Dog & Dog Food Company, Inc., Rollover Premium Pet Food Ltd., and Diamond Pet Foods are other players increasingly embracing the vegan trend in response to consumer demand. Green Pawz, part of Bentley’s Pet Stuff Company, and Freshpet have also ventured into the plant-based pet food market, focusing on fresh, natural ingredients.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Mars Incorporated Hill’s Pet Nutrition
• Lafeber Co.
• Fromm Family Foods LLC.
• Dave’s Pet Food
• Boulder Dog Food Company, LLC.
• Champion Petfoods
• Nutro Products Inc.
• Evanger’s Dog & Dog Food Company, Inc.
• Rollover Premium Pet Food Ltd.
• Diamond Pet Foods
• Green Pawz, A Bentley’s Pet Stuff Company Freshpet
• Nestlé Purina PetCare
• Burgess Group PLC
• Affinity Petcare SA
• 4Legs Pet Food Company
• Real Pet Food Company
• Betagro Public Company Limited

Recent Developments

Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s global revenue surpassing USD 3 billion in 2023, with a growing share coming from plant-based and sustainably sourced pet food products.

Lafeber Co. the company’s overall revenue for 2023 is estimated at USD 120 million, with an increasing portion of this revenue coming from its plant-based and eco-friendly pet food offerings.

Report Scope