The 2025 Australian Pet Lifestyle Index

Gone are the days of pets sleeping outside and eating scraps. Today, they’re sleeping in our beds, getting home-cooked meals, and being cared for like children. 

And so they should, right? 🙌

Because pets are no longer the animals that we bring into our homes, but the family members that help to make our house a home.

Over the last 50 years, there’s been a significant shift in the way Aussies live, which has also re-shaped the way our furry family members live too. 

The rise of the pampered pet

In decades past, dogs were mostly seen as backyard buddies. They’d spend their days roaming the garden, sniffing everything in sight, and curling up under the verandah or in a kennel at night. Cats? They were the mysterious housemates who came and went as they pleased, with barely a nod in your direction 🫣

Dinner time was hardly gourmet — think table scraps or a scoop of dry kibble from a crusty old tin in the laundry. Vet visits were saved for emergencies, and things like grooming appointments, enrichment toys, or doggy behaviour classes? Yeah, not really a thing.

But fast-forward to today and it’s a whole new (and much cushier) world. These days, our pets have officially upgraded to indoor royalty 👑 They snooze on couches, claim beds as their own, and somehow always manage to take up more mattress space than you.

They’re now very much considered part of the family unit, with their own birthdays, wardrobes, healthcare plans, and Instagram accounts! 

And while some might roll their eyes at this pampering, the results speak for themselves. Pets are living longer and healthier lives. In fact, the Global Animal Health Association reports that “dog life expectancy has doubled in the past four decades, and house cats now live twice as long as their feral counterparts.”

So, how did we get here? Let’s rewind and take a peek at how the Aussie pet has evolved…

A pet’s life in the 1970s was ‘no-frills’

In the ’70s, pet ownership was mostly practical. Dogs guarded property or herded livestock. Cats kept the mouse population in check.

🐕 Dogs:

• Lived outside and were valued for work or security.
• Breeds were selected for guarding or herding instincts.
• Training was obedience-based and focused on control, not connection.
  

🐈‍⬛ Cats:

• Mostly lived outdoors, especially in rural areas.
• Kept around for rodent control and expected to fend for themselves.
• Vet care and desexing weren’t common, which led to feral populations and shorter lifespans.

These days though?

It’s a whole different ball game. Pets have gone from backyard fixtures to bed hogs, and from practical companions to full-blown members of the fam.

In 2025, we’re well and truly in our pet parenting era

Hands up if you’ve ever treated your furry friend to any of the following:

• Breed-specific gourmet meals
  
• A designer collar or snazzy little outfit
• An indoor potty or grass patch for apartment life
• Puzzle feeders, treat balls, or other brainy enrichment toys

No judgement — you’re in excellent company!

Thanks to changing lifestyles, smaller living spaces, and a growing understanding of animal wellbeing, we’ve seen a full-blown cultural shift.

Today, you’re a pet parent. And your four-legged companion? That’s your fur baby. Cuddled, coddled, and treated to the best of everything.

2025 is well and truly the age of pet humanisation.

We dress them, feed them, entertain them, and even include them in our social lives just like we would any other family member.

Given we now know that dogs have the mental capacity of a two-year-old child, this insight alone has reshaped how we interact with them. Not just in how we care for them, but in how we speak about them.

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LIVING ARRANGEMENTS

⏪ Then: Braving the elements, outside

Back in the day, dogs were mostly outdoor dwellers — loyal workers, security guards, or livestock wranglers, depending on the breed. Whether they were patrolling the backyard or holding down the fort on the farm, they were rarely invited inside. And they certainly weren’t allowed on the furniture.

Cats didn’t fare much differently. Especially in rural and semi-rural areas, they were kept outside to keep rodents in check 🐀 and expected to be fiercely independent and totally self-sufficient.

A far cry from the purring lap warmers and spoiled snuggle bugs we cuddle on the couch, nowadays…!

⏩ Now: Bed hogs and blanket thieves

These days, it’s very clear that the pets have moved in! Ask any pet parent where their dog sleeps and they’re likely to admit, it’s in the bed with them. And cats? Let’s be honest, they basically own the house. You just live in it 🤷

We wanted to dig a little deeper into this modern pet lifestyle, so we crunched the numbers from the Mad Paws database. Looking at more than 62,000 pet profiles on our platform, we found that a whopping 92% of dogs sleep indoors.

And for those who gave us even more detail? Of the 36,000 pet parents who specified exactly where their dog sleeps, a massive 62% said their pup sleeps in their bedroom, if not in the bed. Yes, that’s right – tucked under the doona like the furry royalty they are! 💤

This stat is backed up by a pet census in 2023 Victorian government’s Agriculture department, where 92% of dogs and 96% of cats are allowed (or kept) inside.

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DIET & MEAL TIMES

⏪ Then: Leftovers and bones

Back in the day, most dogs were fed a mixture of table scraps, raw meat, or whatever was cheapest at the local butcher or supermarket 🍖 🦴

And sure, commercial pet food existed, but it was often packed with fillers and guesswork rather than actual nutritional science.

Until more recently, there just wasn’t a whole lot of information available about what dogs and cats actually needed to thrive. Pet owners did their best with what they had. But balanced nutrition? Not exactly on the radar.

⏩ Now: Premium diets and home-cooked meals

As far as our understanding of pet nutrition has grown, so too has our investment in what our pets eat.

These days, pet parents can now source allergy-friendly kibble, raw diets and hand-cooked meals with bone broth toppers. What was once just “a dog’s breakfast” is now a carefully curated menu 🍽️ Some even have their own fridge space and feeding schedules!

And here’s the kicker: even with cost-of-living pressures, Aussie pet parents aren’t backing down. A recent survey found that 57% will continue prioritising quality, healthy pet food over cheaper alternatives — their pets still eat like royalty, even when budgets get tight. 

According to Animal Medicines Australia, there’s been a steady drop in the number of dogs being fed leftovers or human food — just 20% in 2022, down from 26% in 2019. Meanwhile, food recommended by vets is on the rise, now at 15% (up from 10%). 

And it seems that Mad Paws pet parents are taking cues from the increased knowledge around pet nutrition. While (either wet or dry) kibble seems to be a staple food source for the majority of both cats and dogs, roughly 1 in 6 pets on the Mad Paws database are fed raw or lightly cooked food for every meal.

Interestingly, while breakfast often sticks to the classic kibble routine, there’s a noticeable shift come dinnertime. The number of pets receiving raw or lightly cooked food for their second meal jumps from 20.75% to 23.25%. This suggests a growing preference for more human-grade meals to round out the day. Because apparently, even pets prefer a gourmet dinner 💯

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EXERCISE & ENRICHMENT

⏪ Then: A quick walk and a pat

Once upon a time, enrichment for dogs meant… staying up all night barking at shadows. If they were lucky, they’d get a quick trot around the block or a half-hearted game of fetch in the backyard. And for many, a scratch behind the ears was about as stimulating as it got.

⏩ Now: Brain games, doggy daycare & daily adventures

These days? We’ve levelled up, big time!

The standard measure nowadays is daily walkies. But that’s just the beginning. Their walk around the neighbourhood is also complemented by treat puzzles, sensory toys, and even doggy daycare for extra stimulation and socialisation.

We now understand that mental and physical stimulation isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’, it’s essential. And the science backs it up 🧑‍🔬

A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that structured enrichment plays a key role in a dog’s cognitive development and overall well-being. In other words, a mentally stimulated pup is a happier, healthier pup.

Another study, published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science in 2020, showed that enrichment activities don’t just keep dogs occupied. They actively reduce stress-related behaviours like aggression or destruction, and boost positive behaviours like playfulness and sociability.

So, whether it’s a food maze at breakfast or a sniffari in the park, today’s dogs aren’t just exercised – they’re entertained, engaged, and emotionally fulfilled. Which is probably why they sleep so soundly… right in the middle of your bed 😏

🐩 🐕 🦮 Walking the walk

We all know that if dogs could go for walkies all day, every day, they would! Us humans, on the other hand? Less than motivated to…go the distance, if you will.

The general guideline suggests that dogs require between 30 minutes to 2 hours of physical activity daily, depending on factors like breed, age, and health status. High-energy breeds, such as Border Collies and Huskies, typically need more extensive exercise routines, while smaller or older dogs may require less.

Despite these recommendations, data reveals a shortfall in Aussies meeting their dog’s exercise needs. 15.7% of dog owners, nationally, admitted to never walking their pets! WA being the biggest culprits, with nearly 24% making the admission, and SA following closely at 22%.

It seems there’s a bit too much ‘talking the talk’ — and not quite enough ‘walking the walk’ 🫣

Now, let’s look at the numbers on Mad Paws. Of the 392,000+ dogs in our database, a solid 68.5% are described as having medium to very high energy levels. That means they need anywhere from a brisk half-hour to a full hour (or more!) of proper exercise daily — not just a lap of the backyard.

But here’s where things get interesting… Of the 14,909 dogs tagged as ‘very high energy’, only 4,730 (just 29.31%) have ever booked a Dog Walking session through Mad Paws.

So, what gives? Aussie dog owners might want to give their pets the exercise they need, but life gets in the way….work, school runs, errands, and, let’s be honest, that never-ending to-do list. 🫠 We get it!

The good news? A local Mad Paws Dog Walker can pick up the slack (and the leash). Whether it’s a midday zoom around the block or a long afternoon adventure, our Sitters help ensure your pup gets the movement they crave (even when you’re flat out).

Starting a movement (literally)

Shout-out to the Mad Paws pet parents who are seeing the value that dog walking brings to their pets’ life (and also theirs).

Check out this eye-watering statistic, right from our own backyard:

By mid-2025, our Dog Walkers had already completed over 27,000 walks.

That puts us on track for a record year of almost 50,000 walks – nearly 60% more than last year 🤯

A well-walked dog isn’t just healthier. They’re calmer, happier, and way less likely to dig a hole in your couch cushions!

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PET HEALTHCARE

⏪ Then: Vet visits occur rarely

Back in the day, a trip to the vet was the equivalent of hitting the panic button. Pets only saw a professional if something was clearly off…a broken leg, a nasty bite, or a dramatic limp. If they were still eating and wagging their tail? All good. Preventative care like annual check-ups, dental cleans, or behaviour consultations? Practically unheard of.

The mindset was: “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it.” Literally.

⏩ Now: Preventative care is key

These days, vet visits are just another part of being a responsible pet parent. 

According to Animal Medicines Australia, we’re now spending more than ever on our pets’ health:

• $4.7 billion annually on vet visits

• $2.9 billion on healthcare products

• And $1.1 billion on pet insurance for dogs and cats

We’re no longer just reacting to illness or injury, we’re actively investing in our pets’ wellbeing. The average dog now sees the vet 2.1 times a year; cats, about 1.9 times. And the main reasons? General check-ups and vaccinations. Not emergencies.

With access to better healthcare, more pet-specific knowledge, and advances in vet science, pet parents can take a truly proactive and preventative approach. 

And honestly, they deserve nothing less.

Looking specifically at the Mad Paws database, we also uncovered some trends around reported medical requirements.

A surprising number of pets live with medical conditions. For example, of the pets on the Mad Paws database, 1 in 6 dogs take regular medication, and 1 in 9 cats are on a form of medication. And it seems allergies are cause quite the irritation. Nearly 1 in 4 dogs (23.4%) and 1 in 11 cats (8.9%) suffer from allergies.

Why pet mental health matters

Aussie kibble company, Scratch, recently dug into the topic of doggy health and socialisation. The results are equal parts fascinating and a little heart-tugging 💛

According to their survey:

• 52% of dogs experience occasional anxiety

• 22% show signs of high anxiety

• Only 1 in 4 dogs are described as being ‘always relaxed’

That’s a whole lot of pups feeling a little on edge 😢

And when it comes to social smarts, our four-legged companions seem to be picking favourites. The data shows that dogs are far more comfortable around humans than other dogs, with 20% of pet parents reporting their pup is reactive toward other dogs, compared to just 7% around people.

So… are our pets starting to believe they’re actually one of us? It wouldn’t be a stretch. After all, they sleep in our beds, eat curated meals, and attend social events. (Some even have better outfits than we do.)

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TRAINING & OBEDIENCE

⏪ Then: Punishment

Dog training has undergone a profound transformation over the last 50 years. Let’s just say that in the past it was… a little rough around the edges.

Fifty years ago, obedience training looked a lot like a military bootcamp. Dogs were expected to fall in line using dominance-based methods, where punishment and fear were the go-to tools. “Alpha theory”, which was the idea that humans needed to establish themselves as the pack leader, ruled the day. The goal? Total control. The dog’s emotional state? Not really part of the conversation. 😿

Think stern voices, choke chains, and a whole lot of “because I said so.” 😬

⏩ Now: Positive reinforcement

Thankfully, we’ve come a long way and our dogs are better off (and happier) for it. 🐕

Modern dog training is built on empathy, science, and the understanding that dogs are smart, social creatures who thrive on positive relationships. The focus has shifted from “how do I control this dog?” to “how do we understand each other better?”

Thanks to trainers, behaviourists, and vets championing force-free methods, we now consider everything from breed traits and temperament to body language, mental health, and the impact of trauma or stress on learning.

Positive reinforcement training has replaced old-school discipline, and we understand more than ever how smart and sensitive our pets really are. Training tools now include things like treat pouches, puzzle toys, clickers, and comfy harnesses.

And the results? Dogs who are confident, better behaved, and actually enjoy the learning process.

❌ Out with the old:

• Punishment-based techniques that rely on fear or pain — these can damage trust and lead to anxiety or aggression.
• Dominance theory & “pack leader” mentality — dogs aren’t wolves, and you don’t need to be the boss to earn respect.
• Choke chains & shock collars — most trainers and welfare organisations now consider these outdated and unnecessarily harsh.

✅ In with the new:

• Positive reinforcement — rewarding good behaviour with treats, toys, or praise. It’s not only kinder, it’s proven to be more effective.
• Clicker training — a precise, sound-based way to mark and reward positive behaviour (and a fun game for dogs!).
• Force-free approaches — no intimidation, just trust, patience, and consistency.
• Enrichment & mental stimulation — training sessions now double as playtime and brain workouts.
• Reading the signs — modern trainers focus on understanding canine body language, stress signals, and how to build a two-way conversation — not just barking orders.

🫸 ✋👍 Sit, stay, obey

According to a 2023 pet census by the Victorian government, most dog owners (80%) had trained their dog(s) at some point, including 59% who had used a training service. And it seems the main reason is to get in early, training puppies aged between 3 months to 2 years old (53%). 

Of the pet population on Mad Paws, 92.26% of dogs and 96.38% of cats are house-trained. They’ve undoubtedly proven themselves to be worthy of living indoors. Agree?

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PET SITTING & CARE

⏪ Then: A boarding kennel or cattery

This shift in lifestyle has also influenced the services people choose for their pets. Once upon a time, heading off on holiday meant dropping the dog at a traditional boarding kennel — a setup that ticked the basic boxes, but didn’t exactly offer the homey vibes or creature comforts they’re now used to 😻

⏩ Now: A Sitter that feels like home

At Mad Paws, we’ve noticed a big shift toward home-based care, and it’s easy to see why. Pets simply do better when they’re in familiar surroundings, sticking to the same daily rituals. Meals on time, favourite nap spot, post-dinner zoomies…you know the drill…creatures of habit and all that!

And with 92.26% of dogs and 96.38% of cats on our platform listed as house-trained, let’s be real… they’ve earned the right to stay comfy at home. 

If we compare this to decades past, when they weren’t even allowed to step one paw inside the house, we’ve come a long way as pet owners pet parents! Research over the years shows that in the 90’s, it’s estimated that <50% of dogs were allowed inside. For cats, the shift has been far more significant! One Aussie vet reported that the cat population has gone from around 56% enjoying indoor/outdoor access in the 90’s and 2000’s, to now only 19% who are allowed to venture beyond the confines of home.

Then there’s the emotional side. Nearly half of all dogs (45.42%) in our database aren’t fans of being left alone. Cats, as expected, are a bit more chill — only 24.81% dislike solo time. But even the cool, calm, and collected types have their limits.

According to their humans, the average pet can handle just 55 minutes alone before signs of stress start to show. That’s less than an episode of your favourite show 😯 and definitely less than a full workday.

That’s where Doggy Daycare steps in. Offering more than just a place to hang out, it provides comfort, companionship, and a whole lot of tail wags. It’s the least we can do as owners, given all the loyalty and unconditional love they shower us with ❤️❤️❤️

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So, who run the world? Pets, of course!

Once upon a time, dogs guarded the yard and cats kept the mice in check. Pets lived outside, separated from the rhythm of everyday family life.

Fast forward to today, and they’re front and centre. They’re there for Netflix binges, breakups, and baby announcements. They influence where we live, what we spend, and even what we post online. With 70% of Aussie pet owners considering their pets part of the family, it’s clear – our fur babies aren’t just along for the ride, they’re co-pilots!

Most recently, the Family Law Act in Australia now considers pet custody in terms of care history, emotional bonds, and animal welfare, not just legal ownership. Because they’re so much more than just a possession in a divorce or separation battle!

And what does the future hold for our four-legged family?

• In the ACT, new proposals could see dog owners legally required to spend at least three hours a day with their pets.
• Australia is getting closer to allowing pets on domestic flights (not just service animals).
• Market analysts predict Australian vet healthcare spending will grow by almost 8% per year through to 2030.

In short? Pet care is no longer about feeding and walking. It’s about enriching, protecting, and celebrating their place in our lives.

No wonder the term “fur baby” earned a spot in both the Oxford English and Macquarie dictionaries back in 2015.

And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

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View the official Mad Paws 2025 Australian Pet Lifestyle Index > 

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