The Belgian pet market at a glance

According to the latest studies, the Belgians spend approx. 1.5 bn euros per year on their pets. Of this figure, food accounts for 65 per cent, care and hygiene for 17 per cent and expenditure on healthcare (visits to the vet and medicines) for 18 per cent.One survey conducted by SPF Économie indicates that Belgian pet owners spend an average of 270 euros per year on their pets. The people in Wallonia spend most at 314 euros, followed by those in Flanders at 268 euros and Brussels residents at 150 euros.The German Shepherd is the most popular dog breed in Belgium. Other popular breeds are the Border Collie, the Golden Retriever, the Malinois (a variety of Belgian Shepherd) and the Labrador Retriever.