The French are completely crazy about their pets… and it shows.With 61% of French people owning a pet and nearly 79 million pets recorded, France even snags the top spot in Europe for pet ownership. Yes, over here, dogs and cats are true members of the family. (Source: Accessite)

1. Do&Ka: Do, Re, Meow

Founded in 2015, DO&KA is a local French pet store chain that is currently continuing its expansion across the country. The brand offers a curated selection of products and accessories dedicated to pets and aims to reach 45 points of sale by 2030.

2. Animalis: The Beast of the Market

It’s impossible to talk about pet stores without mentioning Animalis.Since 1998, the chain has established itself as one of the market giants with 121 stores in France. Backed by the international group Emefin, it now enjoys massive brand awareness among pet owners.

3. La Croquetterie: Paradise for Dogs and Cats

At La Croquetterie, pet food is serious business.Created in Gironde in 1999 and expanded into a franchise starting in 2008, the chain specializes in premium nutrition with a strong promise: remaining independent from major industrial groups.And this really appeals to owners who now scrutinize every single ingredient list on kibble bags.Healthy eating exists for pets too.

4. Terranimo: From Local Roots to Broad Territory

Since opening its very first store in 2008 in Saint-Memmie, Terranimo has catered to beginners and passionate experts alike.Everyday owners, breeders, boarding facilities, charities, trainers… everyone finds what they need.With over 90 stores all over France, including the overseas territories (DOM-TOM), the chain is continuing to gain ground at lightning speed.

5. Ultra Premium Direct: The Pet Steakhouse

Originally, Ultra Premium Direct was a pure-play digital brand launched in 2013.Then, the brand started opening its own brick-and-mortar boutiques in 2021… and success quickly followed.Today, the brand already boasts 26 stores in France, winning people over with a simple recipe: premium quality, direct-to-consumer prices, and ultra-effective marketing.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Which pet is the most expensive to care for daily?

‍Dogs generally remain the animals that require the highest annual expenses when factoring in food, veterinary care, and accessories.

Do pets influence the shopping habits of French consumers?

‍More and more. Some consumers now choose their outings based on how pet-friendly the venues are.

Are brick-and-mortar stores still important in the pet industry?

‍Yes, many consumers are still looking for advice, personalized recommendations, and the opportunity to let their pets try out products.

Why is "pet-friendly" becoming such a major trend?

‍Restaurants, hotels, shopping centers… more and more places are adapting to owners who want to go out with their pets.

When will we see pet-friendly shopping malls?

The pet industry is currently one of the most dynamic sectors in France.Premium nutrition, local proximity, specialized advice, customer experience… brands are competing with clever ideas to win over owners who are increasingly attentive to the well-being of their companions.And given the place pets now hold in the daily lives of the French, this phenomenon is nowhere near slowing down.