Most Popular Pets in China
Quick answer
Dogs and cats lead China's fast-growing urban pet market. Ornamental fish — especially goldfish first domesticated in China — and traditional songbirds remain culturally important companions.
Pet culture in China
China is one of the world's fastest-growing pet markets, driven by young professionals in cities who increasingly keep cats and small dogs. Alongside that boom sits a deep history: goldfish were selectively bred from carp in China more than a thousand years ago, and morning songbird walks remain a familiar park ritual in many cities.
The most popular pets in China
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Dogs
Small companion breeds are favoured in apartments; Pekingese and Chow Chow are Chinese-origin icons.
Browse all dog breeds -
Cats
Cat ownership is rising quickly among young urban professionals and fuels a large 'pet economy.'
Browse all cat breeds -
Fish
Goldfish were first domesticated in China and remain popular ornamental pets and good-fortune symbols.
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Songbirds
Keeping songbirds such as the hwamei is a traditional pastime, with morning park walks still common.
Interesting facts about pets in China
- Goldfish were domesticated in China from wild carp more than a thousand years ago.
- China's pet-care market has expanded rapidly with urbanisation and younger owners.
- In Chinese tradition, keeping fish is sometimes associated with prosperity and good luck.
How we ranked pets in China
Dog and cat leadership reflects Chinese pet-industry and urban-ownership reports summarised in international market analyses. Historical notes on goldfish domestication follow established ichthyology and cultural history sources.
Frequently asked questions about pets in China
What is the most popular pet in China?
Dogs and cats are the most popular pets in China's cities, with cat ownership rising especially fast among young people. Ornamental fish and songbirds are also widely kept.
Where did goldfish come from?
Goldfish were first domesticated in China more than a thousand years ago, selectively bred from wild carp for bright colours.
Is pet ownership growing in China?
Yes. China has one of the world's fastest-growing pet markets, driven largely by younger urban owners of cats and small dogs.