The pet culture in Denmark

42358POSTS

7 years ago

Hey everyone,

Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Denmark just to make sure that their little expets feel welcomed in their new homes. Would you give our expats-to-be an insight of what it is like to have a pet in Denmark by answering the following questions?

What part do pets play in society in Denmark? Are they generally accepted in rentals and public spaces more generally?

Is it common for families to have pets?

What animal is the most often kept as pets? Are there some animals that cannot be kept as pets? Do some animals have specific significations when kept as pets?

How about the infrastructure needed to cater for pets? Can you find everything you need for your pet in terms of pet food, veterinary services, accessories, pet grooming etc...?

Do people generally spend a lot of money on their pets?

Please share your experience,

Priscilla

See also

Working in Denmark - Guide
Pet shops in Denmark - Business
Travel to Denmark - 2 Replies
Indians in Denmark - 1 Reply
Education in DENMARK! - 8 Replies
The work culture in Denmark - 3 Replies
Find a place to live with pets - 3 Replies

H4tch3t New member

5POSTS

7 years ago

As an Expat in Copenhagen over the last 8 months;

What part do pets play in society in Denmark? Are they generally accepted in rentals and public spaces more generally?

Many pets are spotted on my daily commute. The big parks have off-leash sections for dogs to run free. The most spotted pets would be medium to small sized dogs. Rentals do allow for pets, and this is usually indicated on the adds placed. Even when not indicated, it does no harm to ask. We asked and now have two cats living with us at a small extra fee.

Is it common for families to have pets?

Yes. Many people have pets, and sometime more than one. Just visit any of the bog parks or jogging paths to see.

What animal is the most often kept as pets? Are there some animals that cannot be kept as pets? Do some animals have specific significations when kept as pets?

As mentioned, dogs are mostly spotted, but I would assume by nature of the shelves in the bigger pet stores that anything goes (cats, dogs, fish, reptiles, birds, etc.). There are however exceptions to some large and aggressive dog breeds, and of course exotic pets for which permits would be required.

How about the infrastructure needed to cater for pets? Can you find everything you need for your pet in terms of pet food, veterinary services, accessories, pet grooming etc...?

The typical pets stores and larger chains are stocked extremely well for pets, ranging from foods, litters, cleaning equipment, pet housing, foods, etc. Most international name brands are available as well.

Do people generally spend a lot of money on their pets?

I have, and still do spend money on my cats. Judging by the number of people visiting our local pet store I would assume others do so as well.