- Dog adoptions at PetSmart Charities in-store adoption events rose 11% in 2025, surpassing 90,000 placements.
- PetSmart identified 25 U.S. “Top Dog Cities” based on adoption activity and consumer spending on dog treats, toys, and wellness products.
- Large dogs remain especially in need of homes, as shelter stays continue to exceed pre-pandemic levels.
- PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week runs March 23–29, bringing adoptable pets to PetSmart stores nationwide.
- Rankings combine adoption data (37%) and dog product spending (63%), adjusted for store density.
PetSmart has released its annual ranking of the Top 25 Dog-Loving Cities in the United States, highlighting communities where residents are most actively adopting dogs and investing in their pets’ wellbeing.
The rankings come as dog adoptions through PetSmart Charities in-store adoption events surpassed 90,000 in 2025, representing an 11% increase year over year.
The announcement precedes PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week (March 23–29), when animal shelters across the country will bring adoptable pets into PetSmart stores to connect them with potential adopters.
Adoption Momentum and Shelter Needs
Despite rising interest in cats in recent years, dogs continue to remain in shelters longer than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Large-breed dogs in particular face longer adoption timelines.
PetSmart has expanded adoption opportunities through Adopt Joy™, monthly in-store events held with local shelters, aimed at accelerating placements for dogs and other adoptable pets.
“From metropolitan areas to growing suburbs and smaller communities across the country, these 25 cities show that love for dogs is universal,” said Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities. “We hope these cities will take pride in this distinction and encourage those with room in their hearts and homes to discover the joy of adoption.”
The Top 25 Dog-Loving Cities
PetSmart’s index evaluates cities based on adoption activity through PetSmart Charities and spending on dog treats, toys, grooming services, apparel, collars, leashes, and bedding.
The Top 25 Dog-Loving Cities are:
- Midland, Texas
- Bloomington, Illinois
- Florence, Kentucky
- Lexington, Kentucky
- Falls Church, Virginia
- Portland, Oregon
- Winter Garden, Florida
- Parker, Colorado
- Warner Robins, Georgia
- Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania
- Glendale, Colorado
- Yuma, Arizona
- Amarillo, Texas
- New York, New York
- Sunset Valley, Texas
- Johnson City, Tennessee
- Woodbridge, Virginia
- Daly City, California
- Fort Collins, Colorado
- Antioch, California
- Olathe, Kansas
- Queen Creek, Arizona
- Pensacola, Florida
- Vienna, Virginia
- Germantown, Maryland
Pet Parents Driving Spending Trends
PetSmart says the ranking also reflects strong consumer demand for dog products and services in these cities.
“Top Dog Cities are home to passionate pet parents who treat their dogs like family, and we’re seeing that reflected in how they shop,” said Matt Byrnes, senior vice president of merchandising at PetSmart.
Pet owners in these markets are purchasing items ranging from toys and treats to grooming services and premium health and wellness products.
Adoption Week Encourages New Pet Families
During PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week, participating shelters will bring adoptable pets to PetSmart stores across the United States, giving prospective pet parents an opportunity to meet animals in person and learn about responsible pet ownership.
PetSmart and PetSmart Charities say their partnership with shelters and rescue organizations has helped more than 11 million pets find homes through in-store adoption programs over the past three decades.
Information sourced from the company’s press release.
