Pet Food Prices in Germany Surge by Over 35 Percent Since 2020

Pet owners in Germany are facing significantly higher expenses as the cost of dog and cat food has risen sharply in recent years. According to data from the Federal Statistical Office, prices for pet food products have increased by more than 35 percent compared to 2020. This trend reflects broader inflationary pressures impacting not only human food but also essentials for household animals.

Several factors contribute to these higher prices. Industry representatives and trade associations cite increased costs for raw materials, energy, and labor as major drivers. For example, prices for key ingredients such as soy products, oils, packaging materials, meat, grains, and fish meal have all escalated. The reduction in livestock farming and crop failures caused by adverse weather conditions have further fueled these price hikes.

Retailers and manufacturers indicate that while some of these increased costs have been absorbed, a significant portion has been passed on to consumers, leading to noticeable price rises for pet food products on store shelves. Notably, demand for premium, sustainable, and high-quality pet food has grown. More pet owners are choosing products with transparent sourcing and higher nutritional value, which often come with higher production costs.

Other types of pet food, such as products for birds, have also seen substantial price increases, with recent figures showing an approximate one-third rise since 2020. The pet market in Germany is considerable, with an estimated 10.5 million dogs and nearly 16 million cats residing in households nationwide. The number of pets increased notably during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since stabilized, meaning demand for pet food remains consistently high.

However, changing economic conditions are influencing consumer behavior. Retail analysts note that while pet owners were previously less sensitive to price changes, ongoing economic uncertainty has made many more cautious with their spending, including on pet food. This shift has resulted in a slowdown in further price increases, as the industry faces greater competitive pressure and consumers look for savings.

In addition to higher food costs, dog owners in Germany must also contend with the local dog tax. Municipal revenues from dog taxes reached a new high in 2024, totaling around 430 million euros, which marks a 2.2 percent increase from the previous year and nearly a 39 percent rise compared to a decade ago.

The combined impact of rising pet food prices and additional expenses like dog taxes is putting more financial strain on German pet owners. While the industry continues to adapt to evolving market conditions and supply chain challenges, the outlook suggests that elevated prices may persist as demand for quality pet nutrition remains strong.