Most Popular Pets in India
Quick answer
Dogs are India's most popular pets, and the pet-care market is growing quickly in cities. Cats are rising fast; fish and birds are also kept, sometimes linked to beliefs about luck and harmony.
Pet culture in India
Urban India is one of the world's fastest-growing pet-care markets. Dogs lead — from global pedigree breeds to the hardy native Indian Pariah ('indie') dog. Cat ownership was once uncommon but is rising among younger city households. Aquariums and certain non-native cage birds are also popular; native wild birds are protected.
The most popular pets in India
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Dogs
India's favourite pet — pedigree breeds and the native Indian Pariah ('indie') dog alike.
Browse all dog breeds -
Fish
Home aquariums are popular and sometimes kept for positive-energy or Vastu associations.
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Birds
Certain non-native cage birds are kept; native species are protected under wildlife law.
Interesting facts about pets in India
- India's pet-care market is among the fastest growing in the world.
- The Indian Pariah dog is one of the world's oldest and most adaptable dog landraces.
- Many Indian households keep aquariums in the belief that fish bring harmony and prosperity.
How we ranked pets in India
Dog leadership and market-growth framing follow Indian pet-industry and market-research summaries. Indie-dog notes reflect recognised landrace status of the Indian Pariah dog.
Frequently asked questions about pets in India
What is the most popular pet in India?
Dogs are the most popular pet in India by a wide margin, including pedigree breeds and the native Indian Pariah dog. Cat ownership is rising quickly in cities.
What is an indie dog?
An 'indie' is the Indian Pariah dog, a native landrace known for being healthy, intelligent, and well adapted to India's climate.
Are cats becoming popular in India?
Yes. Although dogs remain the favourite, cat ownership is one of the fastest-growing pet trends in urban India.