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The United States has the most dogs in the world, with over 78 million dogs kept as pets. This is a staggering number, considering the country's vast population and diverse regions.
According to a survey, the top five countries with the most dogs are the United States, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia. These countries have a combined total of over 200 million dogs.
Interestingly, the US has a higher dog-to-human ratio than many other countries, with one in five households owning a dog. This is likely due to the country's strong pet culture and abundance of dog-friendly spaces.
The popularity of dogs in the US can be attributed to various factors, including the country's love for outdoor activities and the growing trend of urbanization.
Country with Most Dogs
The United States has the highest number of dogs, with an astonishing 75.8 million.
Dog ownership is extremely popular in the US, with dog parks and grooming parlors found in many cities and towns. Owners are responsible for adhering to state laws regarding dog management, and some cities have breed-specific legislations in place.
China (27.4 Million)
China has a staggering 27.4 million dogs, making it the country with the third largest dog population in the world.
This large figure is comprised of both stray dogs and pets, with the pet population growing rapidly in recent years.
In the 1980s, having a pet dog in Beijing was considered an imitation of the Western lifestyle and was even deemed illegal.
However, with loosening restrictions, Chinese dog ownership has skyrocketed.
USA (75.8 Million)
The USA is home to an astonishing 75.8 million dogs, making it a haven for our furry friends. Dog parks have been established in nearly every major city and town, and dog grooming parlors have cropped up in a large number of locations.
Different states in the U.S have their own laws related to dog management, and owners are responsible for strictly adhering to these laws. Some breed-specific legislations have been passed in some cities, restricting the ownership of specific breeds of dogs.
Animal welfare laws have been strictly implemented in the country, and those accused of cruelty towards dogs will find themselves subject to criminal trials, and subsequent punishments if found guilty.
10 EU Countries
The European Union is home to a staggering number of dogs, with an estimated 65.5 million dogs and 75.3 million cats. Germany leads the pack with a total of 9.2 million dogs.
Germany has 9.2 million dogs, followed closely by the United Kingdom with 9 million dogs. The UK is a popular destination for dog owners, with many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore.
Poland has an estimated 7.55 million dogs, making it a significant player in the EU dog population. However, if you're planning to move to Poland with your furry friend, be aware that there are strict regulations on the types of dogs allowed into the country.
The top 10 EU countries with the most dogs are:
The EU's pet food industry and breeding and trade of dogs are significant economic sectors, with 24% of households owning dogs.
Argentina: Most Pet-Rich Country
Argentina is the world's most pet-rich country, with an astonishing 8 out of every 10 families having at least one pet in their homes.
Dogs are the clear favorites, with a whopping 81% of Argentine families owning one. Cats come in second with 52%.
Turtles are a distant third, despite being illegal to keep as pets, with only 7% of families owning one. Birds and fish are even less popular, with 5% and 4% respectively.
The pet economy in Argentina has grown significantly, with many people starting businesses catering to the high demand for pet care. You can find veterinary hospitals and dog walkers on almost every street corner.
During the quarantine period, many families adopted pets, with 3 out of 10 adopting one or more animals.
Dog Population Variations
Dog population variations are influenced by a range of factors, including religion, economy, poverty, space, and working hours.
In predominantly Islamic countries, dogs are often viewed as dirty animals and are rarely kept as pets. This is reflected in the low number of dogs in countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia, where they are mostly used for working purposes.
Countries with improving economies tend to see an increase in pet dog ownership, as people's disposable income increases and they are able to afford pets. This is evident in China, where the growing economy has led to a rise in pet dog ownership.
On the other hand, countries with high poverty levels often have a significant number of stray dogs. Romania is a prime example, with one of the highest rates of dogs per capita globally, but most of these dogs are strays or yard dogs.
The availability of space also plays a role in dog population variations. In Brazil, larger dogs are often found in rural areas, while smaller dogs under 20lbs are more popular in cities.
Here's a breakdown of the three categories of dog populations mentioned in the article:
- Pet dogs: kept as companions in homes.
- Yard/security dogs: used for working purposes or kept in yards.
- Strays and semi-wild dogs: living on the streets or in rural areas.
Sources
- https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/countries-with-the-most-dogs-worldwide.html
- https://diygardening.co.uk/pet-corner/dog-population/
- https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/10-countries-in-the-european-union-with-the-most-dogs.html
- https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/culture/argentina-is-the-worlds-most-pet-rich-country.phtml
- https://bigthink.com/strange-maps/is-this-world-map-of-dog-breeds-too-eurocentric/
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