Demand for puppies has increased by 33% in the past year according to a new report from rehoming platform Pets4Homes.
Following the pandemic puppy boom, oversupply, rising living costs and adoption fatigue cooled the market, but with hybrid working now firmly embedded, pet buyers have returned, according to Pets4Homes. The group reports that average demand per puppy has surged by 33%, while puppy prices have jumped 14.3% in a year.
To conduct the study, Pets4Homes analysed the data of 7,543,112 pets rehomed through the platform from January 2019 until June 2025. Pets4Homes is the UK’s largest online pet marketplace, rehoming over one million pets each year.
The report also notes that goldendoodles are the UK’s most sought-after dog breed for the third year in a row, with nearly 900 buyers for each puppy listed. The Cocker spaniel is now the UK’s most-bred dog, usurping that position from French Bulldogs after 10 years, while miniature Dachshunds have also made a significant leap, climbing from 16th to 3rd place.
Demand for cats is also growing, notes the report, especially among luxury breeds. Kitten listings are up 8%, with British shorthairs dominating, but pedigree and luxury breeds are rising fastest. Maine coons saw a 51% increase in popularity, and Orientals now attract an average of 725 buyers per listing, making them the most in-demand kittens.
Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes said: “Britain’s love affair with pets has entered a new chapter, and it’s more competitive than ever. With hybrid working now the norm and pets once again seen as integral to home life, we’re seeing a renewed surge in demand as people prioritise companionship, routine and emotional support in a post-pandemic world.
“But with prices also rising fast, this new boom comes with a warning: the UK’s love for pets is back in full force, but prospective owners must be prepared – emotionally and financially – for the responsibility, especially in today’s uncertain world.”
He continued: “The Goldendoodle’s continued reign as Britain’s most wanted dog, for the third year running, also speaks volumes about shifting pet priorities – low-shedding, broadly hypoallergenic, intelligent and famously family-friendly, it ticks every box for modern households balancing work, children and increasingly health-conscious lifestyles. The fact that nearly 900 people are vying for each puppy underscores just how fiercely competitive the UK pet market has become once again.”
