In recent years, the global surge in pet adoption has transformed how people travel and care for their animal companions. As pets increasingly become part of the family, the demand for high-quality, comfortable, and stylish transport solutions has soared — and pet carriers have emerged as a critical component of the booming pet accessories market.
Whether it’s jet-setting with a pet or simply heading to the vet, carriers offer convenience, safety, and mobility for both pets and their owners. As a result, the global pet carriers market is expected to experience significant growth, driven by rising pet ownership, increased humanization of pets, and growing demand for travel-friendly products.
According to industry estimates, the pet carriers market was valued at US$ 830 million in 2023, and it is anticipated to reach US$ 1.42 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2023 to 2031.
What Are Pet Carriers?
Pet carriers are portable enclosures used to safely transport animals, especially cats, dogs, rabbits, and smaller exotic pets. They come in various forms — soft-sided carriers, hard-shell crates, backpack carriers, tote bags, wheeled carriers, and even airline-approved designs.
Today’s consumers expect more than just functionality. They want comfort, safety features, ease of handling, and aesthetic appeal, all in one solution. This has spurred manufacturers to offer more innovative, ergonomic, and stylish pet carriers designed for travel, leisure, and daily commutes.
Key Market Drivers
1. Boom in Pet Ownership and Pet Humanization
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and growing mental health awareness, more households worldwide adopted pets for companionship. This “pet boom” has fueled demand for premium pet care products. As pets become family members, owners invest in quality products that ensure their comfort — including carriers.
2. Rise in Pet Travel and Pet-Friendly Policies
More airlines, hotels, and public spaces are adapting to pet-inclusive lifestyles. With pet owners wanting to travel with their animals, demand for airline-compliant pet carriers and travel accessories has surged.
3. Increasing Urbanization and Compact Living
In urban areas, where space is limited and commuting is common, portable and lightweight pet carriers are ideal for short trips, visits to parks, or appointments. Backpack and crossbody carriers, in particular, have become trendy for urban pet parents.
4. E-Commerce and Online Customization Options
The availability of stylish, customizable, and affordable pet carriers online has democratized access to premium products. The rise of D2C pet brands and e-commerce platforms allows consumers to compare styles, read reviews, and purchase with convenience.
Market Segmentation
By Product Type:
Hard-sided carriers
Soft-sided carriers
Backpack carriers
Wheeled carriers
Slings and totes
Soft-sided carriers dominate the market due to their lightweight nature and airline compatibility, while backpacks and slings are gaining momentum among young, mobile pet parents.
By Pet Type:
Dogs
Cats
Others (rabbits, guinea pigs, birds)
Dogs account for the largest share, with cats following closely. However, demand for small-animal carriers is also on the rise, particularly in Asia.
By Distribution Channel:
Online Retail
Pet Specialty Stores
Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
Veterinary Clinics
Online channels are expanding rapidly thanks to convenience and product variety, while pet specialty stores maintain strong customer loyalty and offer personalized services.
Regional Insights
North America: Leading the Charge
With high pet ownership rates and a mature pet care market, North America — particularly the U.S. and Canada — leads in terms of revenue. Pet parents in this region spend generously on travel-ready pet products and designer carriers.
Europe: Focus on Pet Welfare
Europe follows closely, supported by strict pet welfare regulations and an uptick in eco-friendly, vegan material-based pet carriers. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are key markets.
Asia-Pacific: Fastest Growing Market
Countries like China, Japan, India, and South Korea are seeing a pet care revolution. Rising incomes, increasing nuclear families, and social media influence are pushing younger generations to splurge on trendy, multi-functional pet accessories.
Challenges in the Pet Carriers Market
1. Regulatory Hurdles
For international travel, pet carriers must meet specific airline and transportation regulations. Navigating these complex guidelines can pose a challenge for manufacturers.
2. Product Safety and Comfort
Design flaws can lead to poor ventilation or structural weaknesses, risking pet safety. Ensuring ergonomic, durable, and breathable design is crucial to maintaining customer trust.
3. Price Sensitivity in Emerging Markets
While the West leans toward premium offerings, consumers in developing markets often seek affordability, creating a need for cost-effective yet reliable alternatives.
Innovations and Trends
1. Smart and Tech-Enabled Pet Carriers
Some brands are introducing pet carriers with built-in fans, GPS tracking, collapsible features, and USB-powered lighting to enhance comfort and convenience.
2. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Materials
Carriers made from recycled plastic, organic cotton, and vegan leather are increasingly popular among eco-conscious consumers.
3. Luxury and Designer Pet Carriers
Designer collaborations (think Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Barbour) and fashion-forward options appeal to affluent consumers and celebrity pet influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
4. Pet Carrier Rentals and Sharing Economy
Urban centers are exploring subscription or rental models for high-end carriers — offering flexibility for occasional travelers and reducing waste.
Key Market Players
Several established and emerging players are investing in design innovation and strategic partnerships to capture market share:
Sherpa Pet
Petmate
Sleepypod
Trixie Pet Products
Pawhut
Kurgo
Petsfit
Wild One
Amazon Basics
Mr. Peanut’s
Many of these brands are focusing on D2C models, influencer marketing, and limited-edition releases to engage the growing Gen Z and millennial pet owner base.
Final Thoughts
The pet carriers market is much more than just a niche accessory category — it’s a reflection of how pets are becoming integrated into every aspect of modern life, from travel and fashion to sustainability and smart tech.
As this trend continues, brands that blend functionality, safety, eco-conscious design, and style will thrive. With the rise of pet parenting, wellness, and on-the-go lifestyles, the market for innovative pet carriers is only getting started.
Write a comment ...