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What’s hot for pet parents in 2017? Rover.com, the nation’s largest network of pet sitters and dog walkers, dug into their data and consulted their pet experts to find out.
We’re treating our dogs like part of our family, and it shows. From pampering our pets with organic foods and toys to decking them out with the latest tech, we want our dogs to live their best life.
More and more people are embracing pet parenthood, too. Have allergies? Hypoallergenic breeds are on the rise. Work long hours? Pet care apps like Rover make it easy to find trusted local pet care, from pet sitters to dog walkers to doggy day care.
Whether we’re taking them out to dinner with us, teaching them to use an agility course, or checking on them with a WiFi camera, we’re showing our pets how much they mean to us. And that’s because love is always trending up.
The Hottest Dog Breeds
These dog breeds are especially popular for pet parents.
Designer dogs and hypoallergenic breeds
From cockapoos to goldendoodles, America loves its poodle mixes.
Other hypoallergenic breeds like the Havanese, Yorkshire terrier, and Portuguese water dog are also growing in popularity. According to Rover data, ownership of poodles and hypoallergenic dog breeds was up 62% in 2016.
Large breeds
Big dogs like pit bulls and Bernese mountain dogs are in! They’re great with kids & offer the whole family more dog to love.
Mixed breed
Pet parents are falling in love with shelter dogs and unusual combos like Horgis (Corgi + Husky) and Chugs (Chihuahua + Pug).
Mini dogs
Dogs like the Mini bull terrier or mini Australian shepherd are the perfect companions for modern pet parents who live in small spaces—but lead big lives.
Trends in Pet Tech
Modern pet parents are decking out their homes and their dogs in top-notch tech.
Wifi cameras & treat dispensers
Pet owners are loving these gadgets that let them bond from afar.
Popular choices include Petcube Camera and the Furbo Dog Camera.
GPS & activity trackers
Pet wearables are going mainstream in 2017. And as GPS trackers become more affordable, expect to see more dogs sporting them.
Top choices include Whistle and FitBark.
Smart crates
On-the-go pet parents will love these dog parking spots!
Social networks for dog lovers
Move over Tinder! This year, social media is going to the dogs.
Pet care apps
Find loving pet care, right in your neighborhood—and right from your phone.
Dog Food Trends
Dog owners are wild about these foodie trends.
Healthy ingredients
Pet parents are seeking out all-natural, organic, and fresh foods, from wholesome veggies to sustainably-sourced salmon and coconut oil for shiny coats.
Safety is always a concern, and these chews keep dogs busy with less risk of choking.
Grain free and gluten-free
With grain-free all the rage, dog food is following human foodie trends, too.
Call of the wild
Raw diets harken back to our dogs’ wild roots.
Non-traditional meats & exotic proteins
It’s not just chicken these days! Pet parents are scooping up foods made from boar, rabbit, duck, and even alligator and kangaroo. Yum?
Pet Health & Wellness
This year, pet parents are doubling down on their dogs’ well being.
Accessible and affordable pet healthcare
More and more pet parents are taking advantage of home testing kits and vet care on-demand.
With all the new research on the importance of gut health, these supplements aren’t just for humans anymore.
Cannabis-infused treats
Natural remedies made from CBD oil are popular with owners of senior pets and pets suffering from health issues.
Dog behavior consulting
What are our dogs really thinking? Pet parents want to know, and they’re trying everything from reiki to pet psychics to find out.
Pet Lifestyle Choices
The top trends in pet parenthood.
Taking your dog to work
Dog-friendly offices are all the rage, and more pet parents will be looking for this job perk in 2017.
Taking your dog…everywhere
Every moment is better with a dog. From a dinner out to a wedding photo shoot, we want our dogs to join in the fun.
DNA testing
New technology makes it easier than ever to find out your dog’s lineage. Breed testing is not only fun, but it helps us bond with our pets and understand them better.
Popular choices include Embark and Wisdom Panel.
Dog sports
Hot trends encourage dogs to follow their natural instincts with agility, parkour, nosework, and more.
Human-inspired dog names
We’re naming our dogs like our children: Rover data shows that names like Bella, Max, Charlie, and Molly are in the top five for dogs nationwide. Meanwhile, names like Jackson and Zoe are on the rise!
Dogs as Insta-celebs
Our dogs often have their own Instagram account—and they just might have more followers than we do.
Must-Have Pet Products
These are the hottest items for dogs and their humans this year.
Form meets function as dog owners showcase their style.
In addition to regular walks, dogs needs their minds challenged, too.
Pet-integrated furniture
These beautiful pieces fit a dog seamlessly into any space.
Dog packs, slings, and rain gear
Pet parents want to take their best friend anywhere and everywhere, from backpacking trips to all-weather adventures.