SHANGHAI (Reuters) – A surge in dog trail races, where owners and their canine companions navigate off-road obstacle courses together, is sweeping across China, fueled by a burgeoning interest in pet ownership and active lifestyle pursuits.
For participants like Hong Feiwen, these races represent more than just a recreational activity; they symbolize an opportunity to forge stronger bonds with their furry companions.
“Originally, I would only go to the gym and run to lose weight,” shared Hong, reflecting on his lifestyle before adopting his border collie Yaoyao. “But after having a dog, my dog and exercise have become integral parts of my life that cannot be ignored.”
Last month, Hong and Yaoyao showcased their agility as they leaped through tires and maneuvered under nets at an event held on the outskirts of Shanghai.
Official projections anticipate China’s outdoor sports market to soar to a value of 241 billion yuan ($33 billion) by 2025. Concurrently, the pet consumption market witnessed a steady annual growth of 3.2% in 2023, reaching 279.3 billion yuan, according to state media reports.
In a landscape marked by sluggish consumer spending amidst economic uncertainties, the pet and sports sectors have emerged as beacons of growth, noted Yaling Jiang of strategy consultancy ApertureChina.
“Chinese pet owners are increasingly seeking avenues to pamper their pets, viewing them as cherished family members, particularly as many opt out of traditional parenthood,” Jiang remarked.
A report from UBS Evidence Lab revealed that nearly 80% of Chinese pet owners either maintained or increased their spending on pets post the COVID-19 pandemic last year.
Chen Yi, the brain behind LetsDog, an organization hosting monthly dog races attracting over 100 participants, attests to the burgeoning popularity of these events. The soaring demand has prompted LetsDog to diversify its offerings, catering to niche races tailored for specific dog breeds such as samoyeds and corgis.
“Initially, we had experience organizing human sports events,” explained Chen. “However, we believe that presently, from a commercial standpoint, the pet market offers a more promising avenue for new consumption…it’s currently experiencing a boom.”
($1=7.2147 Chinese yuan renminbi)
