Top Pet Trends in 2026 Based on Search Data

Rachid Idali

by Rachid Idali

Below you'll find the top 50 pet trends for 2026, spotted by Rising Trends's trend radar algorithm.

These topics were detected from online sources including TikTok, X (Twitter), Instagram, Reddit, news outlets, and Google Search data. Each trend has at least 1,000+ monthly searches and over 20% year-over-year growth.

Top 50 Fastest-Growing Pet Trends

All pet trends with over 20% year-over-year growth, ranked by search volume.

1

Jumping Spider

246K vol+49%
2

Treats For Dogs

110K vol+82%
3

Interactive Cat Toys

110K vol2.7X
4

Scratching Post For Cats

90.5K vol+50%
5

Orb Weaver

90.5K vol+22%
6

Cat Water Fountains

74K vol+22%
7

Smart Bird Feeder

74K vol3.3X
8

Automatic Litter Boxes

60.5K vol+49%
9

Peppermint Oil For Mice

60.5K vol2.2X
10

Bearded Dragon Enclosure

60.5K vol3.3X
11

Puppy Yoga

60.5K vol2.7X
12

Cat Food Cans

49.5K vol+83%
13

Pet Cemetery

49.5K vol2.7X
14

Puppy Milk Replacement

40.5K vol2.2X
15

Freeze-dried Raw Dog Food

40.5K vol11.3X
16

Ball Python Enclosure

40.5K vol4.1X
17

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

33.1K vol+22%
18

Aquarium Water Changer

33.1K vol7.5X
19

Pet Cremation Services

33.1K vol4.1X
20

Jumping Spider Enclosure

27.1K vol+83%
21

Human-grade Dog Food

27.1K vol6.2X
22

Plush Dog Bed

27.1K vol14.3X
23

Senior Dog Food

27.1K vol+83%
24

Dog Dental Chews

27.1K vol2.7X
25

Dog Toothbrush

22.2K vol+50%
26

Flying Bird Cat Toy

22.2K vol2.7X
27

Durable Dog Toys

22.2K vol4.1X
28

Pupsicle

22.2K vol+50%
29

Automatic Cleaning Litter Box

22.2K vol4.1X
30

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

14.8K vol3.4X
31

Odor Eliminator For Pets

14.8K vol+83%
32

3d Printed Animal

14.8K vol2.2X
33

Cat Grimace Scale

14.8K vol7.8X
34

Dog Food Toppers

14.8K vol+49%
35

Dog Food Topper

14.8K vol+49%
36

Dental Chews For Dogs

14.8K vol2.2X
37

Chinook Dog

14.8K vol+22%
38

Chicken Waterer

14.8K vol+22%
39

Flyball

14.8K vol2.2X
40

Dog Dental Powder

12.1K vol2.8X
41

Natural Cat Litter

9.9K vol3.4X
42

Collagen For Dogs

8.1K vol+23%
43

Slow Dog Feeder

8.1K vol+50%
44

Donut Dog Bed

8.1K vol+23%
45

Dovecote

8.1K vol+23%
46

Pet House

8.1K vol+23%
47

Litter Box Cleaner

8.1K vol2.8X
48

Dog Chew Treat

8.1K vol8.1X
49

Dog Food Subscription

8.1K vol+23%
50

Grooming Products For Dogs

8.1K vol13.7X

Showing top 10 of 50 pet trends

Pet Industry: 2026's Defining Movements

Category Market Size Growth Leaders
Smart Pet Tech ~$8B ~14.2% CAGR Bird Buddy, Petcube
Premium Pet Food ~$45B ~9.8% CAGR The Farmer's Dog, Stella & Chewy's
Pet Dental Care ~$2.5B ~11.5% CAGR Greenies, Whimzees
Interactive Pet Toys ~$5B ~12.8% CAGR Kong, Cheerble
Pet Wellness & Testing ~$3B ~15.3% CAGR Embark, Wisdom Panel
Pet-Friendly Home ~$6B ~8.7% CAGR Roomba, Dyson

CAGR = compound annual growth rate

For a breakdown of how we spot these movements before they peak, see our guide on Google Trends for market research where we explain our methodology.


1. Smart Pet Technology Revolution

Connected devices are transforming how we care for pets. "Smart bird feeder" has surged to 74,000 monthly searches with +233% year-over-year growth, while "interactive cat toy" generates 110,000 searches at +172% YoY. Even niche products like "flying bird cat toy" have grown +174% to 22,200 searches.

Smart Bird Feeder

74KVolume
30x5Y
027K54K81K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Interactive Cat Toys

110KVolume
10x5Y
049K99K148K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

The pet industry is embracing IoT technology, creating products that entertain pets, monitor their health, and give owners peace of mind.

What's Driving This Shift

Smart pet tech is exploding because:

  • Work-from-home guilt: Remote workers want to monitor and entertain pets during meetings
  • AI integration: Species recognition, behavior analysis, and health monitoring are now affordable
  • Birdwatching renaissance: Smart bird feeders combine nature connection with tech appeal
  • Indoor cat health: Automated toys keep cats active when owners can't play
  • Separation anxiety solutions: Cameras and interactive devices reduce pet stress

The smart pet technology market is projected to reach $8 billion by 2028, growing faster than traditional pet products.

What's Gaining Momentum

Smart Bird Feeder (74,000 searches, +233% YoY) – AI-powered feeders that identify bird species, capture photos, and notify owners via app. Bird Buddy pioneered the category with over 1 million units sold.

Interactive Cat Toy (110,000 searches, +172% YoY) – Automated toys that mimic prey behavior, keeping cats engaged for hours. Features like random movement patterns and timer settings make them essential for indoor cats.

Flying Bird Cat Toy (22,200 searches, +174% YoY) – Motorized toys with vibrating wings that simulate real birds in flight. The lifelike movement triggers hunting instincts and provides exercise.

Smart Litter Box (2,400 searches) – Self-cleaning litter boxes with health monitoring that track weight, frequency, and waste patterns. Litter-Robot leads the premium segment.

Automatic Pet Door (1,900 searches) – Doors using microchip or collar sensors to allow only your pets entry. Prevents strays while giving pets freedom.

Real-Time GPS Tracker (1,900 searches) – Pet collars with live location tracking, escape alerts, and activity monitoring. Essential for outdoor cats and adventurous dogs.

Key Players

  • Bird Buddy – The viral smart bird feeder with AI species identification
  • Petcube – Pet cameras with treat dispensing and two-way audio
  • Litter-Robot – Premium self-cleaning litter box with health insights
  • Cheerble – Smart interactive toys for cats and dogs

2. Premium Pet Nutrition Takes Over

Pet owners are treating their animals like family members at mealtime. "Freeze-dried raw dog food" has exploded +1,025% year-over-year to 40,500 searches, while "human-grade dog food" generates 27,100 searches at +516% growth. Even supplements like "dog food toppers" maintain 14,800 searches as owners enhance basic kibble.

Freeze-dried Raw Dog Food

41KVolume
20x5Y
027K54K81K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Human-grade Dog Food

27KVolume
10x5Y
022K44K66K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

The humanization of pet food continues accelerating, with owners demanding the same quality standards they expect for themselves.

Why Premium Pet Food Is Winning

Premium nutrition is surging because:

  • Pet humanization: Owners increasingly view pets as family members deserving quality food
  • Health awareness: Links between diet and pet health are better understood
  • Ingredient transparency: Pet food scandals made owners skeptical of traditional brands
  • Fresh delivery services: D2C brands made premium food convenient
  • Longevity focus: Owners want pets to live longer, healthier lives

The premium pet food market is valued at $45 billion and growing nearly 10% annually.

What's Gaining Momentum

Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food (40,500 searches, +1,025% YoY) – Raw nutrition with the convenience of dry food. The freeze-drying process preserves nutrients while eliminating pathogens, offering a middle ground between raw and kibble.

Human-Grade Dog Food (27,100 searches, +516% YoY) – Pet food made in facilities meeting human food safety standards. The Farmer's Dog popularized the fresh, human-grade model.

Puppy Milk Replacement (40,500 searches, +124% YoY) – Formula for orphaned or supplemented puppies. Growing awareness of proper early nutrition drives searches.

Dog Food Toppers (14,800 searches, +49% YoY) – Broths, freeze-dried mixers, and flavor enhancers that transform boring kibble. An entry point to premium nutrition.

Collagen for Dogs (8,100 searches, +23% YoY) – Joint, skin, and coat supplements gaining traction as pet owners adopt human wellness trends for their animals.

Healthy Dog Treats (12,100 searches) – Natural, limited-ingredient treats without fillers or artificial additives. Owners scrutinize treat labels as closely as food.

Key Players

  • The Farmer's Dog – Fresh, human-grade dog food delivered to your door
  • Stella & Chewy's – Freeze-dried raw pet food pioneer
  • Open Farm – Ethically sourced, transparently made pet food
  • Weruva – Human-grade wet food in recyclable packaging

3. Pet Dental Health Awareness

Oral care is emerging as a major pet wellness category. "Dog dental chews" has hit 27,100 searches with +174% growth, while "dog dental powder" generates 12,100 searches at +175% YoY. The broader "dog dental health" category maintains steady interest as vets emphasize the importance of oral care.

Dog Dental Chews

27KVolume
10x5Y
012K24K36K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Dog Dental Powder

12KVolume
109x5Y
04K9K13K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Pet owners are finally understanding that dental health impacts overall pet health, driving demand for preventive products.

Why Dental Care Is Trending

Pet dental health is growing because:

  • Vet education: More vets are explaining links between oral health and organ disease
  • Convenience products: Dental chews and water additives make care easy
  • Cost awareness: Dental cleanings under anesthesia are expensive; prevention is cheaper
  • Visual evidence: Owners can see and smell the difference good dental care makes
  • Pet longevity goals: Healthy teeth mean healthier, longer lives

The pet dental care market is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2027.

What's Gaining Momentum

Dog Dental Chews (27,100 searches, +174% YoY) – Treats that mechanically clean teeth while dogs chew. VOHC-approved products offer verified plaque and tartar reduction.

Dog Dental Powder (12,100 searches, +175% YoY) – Sprinkle-on supplements that fight bacteria and freshen breath without brushing. The convenience factor drives adoption among brush-resistant pet owners.

Dog Dental Health (1,900 searches) – General searches indicating growing awareness of canine oral care importance. Education is driving product searches.

Slow Dog Feeder (8,100 searches, +50% YoY) – While not strictly dental, these bowls promote slower eating which aids digestion and can reduce gulping-related dental issues.

Key Players

  • Greenies – The original dental treat, now with multiple formulations
  • Whimzees – Natural, vegetable-based dental chews
  • Petsmile – VOHC-accepted toothpaste for pets
  • Nylabone – Dental chews and long-lasting chew toys

4. Birdwatching Goes High-Tech

Backyard birdwatching is experiencing a tech-driven renaissance. "Smart bird feeder" generates 74,000 searches at +233% growth, while "bird feeder with camera" maintains 33,100 searches. Traditional "bird feeder" searches remain strong at 40,500 as the hobby attracts new enthusiasts.

Bird Feeder With Camera

33KVolume
+652%5Y
033K66K99K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Bird Feeder

41KVolume
-18%5Y
19K52K85K118K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

The pandemic sparked interest in backyard nature, and technology is keeping that interest alive by making birdwatching more engaging and educational.

What's Driving the Birdwatching Boom

Birdwatching tech is surging because:

  • Pandemic nature connection: People discovered backyard wildlife during lockdowns
  • AI identification: Apps and smart feeders identify species automatically
  • Social sharing: Bird photos and videos perform well on social media
  • Conservation awareness: Understanding local bird populations matters
  • Multi-generational appeal: Tech bridges younger and older nature enthusiasts

The birdwatching market, including feeders and accessories, is valued at over $5 billion globally.

What's Gaining Momentum

Smart Bird Feeder (74,000 searches, +233% YoY) – AI-powered feeders with cameras that identify species, capture photos, and send notifications. Bird Buddy raised over $10M on Kickstarter and sparked the category.

Bird Feeder with Camera (33,100 searches) – Traditional feeders upgraded with cameras for close-up bird watching. Appeals to those wanting tech without full AI integration.

Bird Feeder (40,500 searches) – The traditional category remains strong as entry points to the hobby. Squirrel-proof and specialized feeders drive innovation.

Key Players

  • Bird Buddy – The viral AI bird feeder with species identification
  • Birdfy – Smart feeder competitor with solar options
  • Duncraft – Traditional bird feeding supplies and expertise
  • Merlin Bird ID (Cornell Lab) – Free AI app for bird identification by sight and sound

5. Pet DNA & Health Testing

Pet owners want to understand their animals at the genetic level. "Dog DNA test" generates 135,000 monthly searches as owners seek breed and health insights. The "cat grimace scale" has exploded +679% to 14,800 searches as pain assessment tools go mainstream.

Dog Dna Test

135KVolume
N/A5Y
79K124K168K212K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Cat Grimace Scale

15KVolume
14799x5Y
018K36K54K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

From ancestry curiosity to proactive health management, pet genetic and diagnostic testing is becoming routine.

Why Pet Testing Is Mainstream

Pet health testing is growing because:

  • Breed curiosity: Mixed-breed owners want to know their dog's heritage
  • Health risk prediction: DNA tests identify genetic disease predispositions
  • Personalized care: Knowing breed composition helps tailor exercise and nutrition
  • Pain recognition: Tools like the cat grimace scale help owners identify suffering
  • Vet partnership: Test results inform veterinary care decisions

The pet DNA testing market is growing at 15% annually as tests become more affordable and comprehensive.

What's Gaining Momentum

Dog DNA Test (135,000 searches) – Home kits that identify breed composition, relatives, and health markers. Embark and Wisdom Panel dominate with tests screening for 200+ conditions.

Cat Grimace Scale (14,800 searches, +679% YoY) – A veterinary pain assessment tool that evaluates five facial features to detect acute pain in cats. Going viral as owners learn to recognize feline distress.

Dog Age in Human Years Calculator (9,900 searches) – Tools using new research that accounts for breed and size, moving beyond the outdated "7 years" rule.

Key Players

  • Embark – Most comprehensive dog DNA test with health screening
  • Wisdom Panel – Affordable DNA testing for dogs and cats
  • Basepaws – Cat-focused DNA and health testing
  • Feline Grimace Scale – Free online tool for cat pain assessment

6. Pet-Friendly Home Products

Homes are being designed around pet needs. "Best robot vacuum for pet hair" generates 27,100 searches, while "odor eliminator for pets" maintains 14,800 searches at +83% growth. Even specialized products like "stainless steel litter box" hit 60,500 searches as owners upgrade basics.

Stainless Steel Litter Box

61KVolume
37x5Y
040K81K121K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Odor Eliminator For Pets

15KVolume
+236%5Y
2K9K17K24K12/2012/2112/2212/2312/2411/25

Pet ownership is influencing home product purchases, from flooring to furniture to cleaning devices.

Why Pet-Friendly Products Are Essential

Pet home products are trending because:

  • Multi-pet households: More pets mean more hair, odor, and maintenance
  • Allergy management: HEPA filtration and air purifiers address pet dander
  • Material innovation: Stainless steel and antimicrobial materials reduce odors and bacteria
  • Smart home integration: Robot vacuums schedule cleaning around pet activity
  • Premium expectations: If food is upgraded, why not litter boxes and cleaning products?

The pet-friendly home products category is valued at $6 billion and growing steadily.

What's Gaining Momentum

Stainless Steel Litter Box (60,500 searches) – Non-porous, odor-resistant litter boxes that don't absorb smells or harbor bacteria like plastic. The premium choice for multi-cat households.

Best Robot Vacuum for Pet Hair (27,100 searches) – Robot vacuums with tangle-free brushes and strong suction designed for pet households. Models from iRobot and Roborock lead searches.

Odor Eliminator for Pets (14,800 searches, +83% YoY) – Enzyme-based cleaners that break down pet odors at the molecular level rather than masking them.

Best Air Purifier for Pets (12,100 searches) – HEPA and activated carbon purifiers that eliminate dander, hair, and odors for allergy-prone households.

Peppermint Oil for Mice (60,500 searches, +123% YoY) – Natural pest deterrent trending among pet owners seeking non-toxic alternatives to protect their animals.

Key Players

  • iRobot (Roomba) – Market leader in robot vacuums with pet-specific features
  • Roborock – Premium robot vacuums with mop functions
  • Dyson – High-performance vacuums and air purifiers
  • Nature's Miracle – Enzyme-based pet stain and odor eliminators

Summary

The pet industry of 2026 reveals owners who treat their animals as genuine family members. Whether investing in smart bird feeders (+233% growth), upgrading to freeze-dried raw dog food (+1,025%), prioritizing dental chews (+174%), running dog DNA tests (135K searches), or buying stainless steel litter boxes (60K searches) – the common thread is premiumization across every category.

The winning trends in pet care share these characteristics:

  • Technology integration making pet care smarter and more connected
  • Human-grade standards applied to pet nutrition and products
  • Preventive health focus rather than reactive treatment
  • Convenience without compromise on quality or safety

For entrepreneurs and investors, the data points to several high-growth opportunities: smart pet devices, premium and functional pet nutrition, dental health products, and pet-friendly home solutions.

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Written By

Rachid Idali

Founder of Rising Trends, helping entrepreneurs identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities through expert trend analysis and insights.