The number of puppies being bred in the UK remains around 30% below pre-pandemic levels, despite growing demand from prospective owners, according to the latest market analysis from Pets4Homes.
The findings, published in the UK Pet Industry Report Vol. 10, suggest the UK pet market has reached what Pets4Homes describes as a “decisive turning point”, with demand now exceeding long-term pre-pandemic norms while breeding activity remains comparatively subdued.
During the first six months of 2026, approximately 208,000 puppies were advertised for sale, a slight decrease on the same period in 2025. Although breeding activity remains significantly lower than before the Covid-19 pandemic, the report indicates the rate of decline has slowed considerably compared with the period between 2022 and 2024.
Pets4Homes attributes the current market conditions to the extraordinary surge in pet ownership during the pandemic, when demand accelerated rapidly and breeders increased production to meet unprecedented interest. According to the report, around half of that temporary increase in breeding has now been offset by lower production in subsequent years, although the market is still estimated to be operating around 35% below long-term demand.
Litters continue to sell quickly
The imbalance between supply and demand means puppies continue to find homes rapidly.
Pets4Homes reports that the average time taken for an entire litter to be reserved has fallen to 23 days during the first half of 2026. Kittens are selling even faster, with complete litters typically reserved within 17 days, reflecting strong consumer demand across both markets.
While puppy breeding has remained subdued, the cat market tells a different story.
The report found that kitten advertisements increased by 20% compared with the first half of 2025, pushing breeding activity above pre-pandemic levels. Pets4Homes notes, however, that cat breeding remains more seasonal than dog breeding, with supply fluctuating throughout the year.
Changing breeding trends
The report also highlights longer-term changes in the types of dogs being bred.
Pedigree breeds accounted for 63% of puppies advertised during the first half of 2026, continuing a gradual decline from 82% in 2014. At the same time, the proportion of pedigree breeders stating that their litters are Kennel Club registered has fallen from 38% in 2018 to 25% today, although Pets4Homes notes that registration information is self-reported by breeders.
Among individual breeds, the Miniature Dachshund remained the UK’s most commonly advertised puppy breed during the first half of 2026, while the British Shorthair continued to dominate the kitten market.
Welfare remains the priority
While strong demand may be encouraging for responsible breeders, animal welfare organisations continue to remind prospective owners that choosing a puppy should never be rushed.
Potential owners are advised to research breeds carefully, meet puppies with their mother where possible, ask about relevant health testing and breeding practices, and ensure they are purchasing from responsible breeders who prioritise health, welfare and temperament over profit.
The Pets4Homes report suggests that, although the market is beginning to stabilise following the disruption of the pandemic years, demand for well-bred puppies is likely to remain strong while breeding levels continue below historic norms. Read the Pets4Homes report here.
