A new pet survey, commissioned by the Swan Rathmines, has revealed just how deeply pets have become woven into Irish festive traditions—showing that animals now play a major role in Christmas celebrations across the country.
Irish households love to spoil their pets at Christmas. Dogs dominate the gifting list, with more than 85% of respondents buying presents for them. Cats, rabbits, hamsters and even more unusual companions—such as bearded dragons, horses and tortoises—also feature. Nearly 96% of people have bought a festive gift for a pet at least once, proving that pets firmly belong on the Irish Christmas shopping list.
The survey shows that holiday excitement is shared across species. Over 73% of respondents wrap their pets’ presents so they can join the unwrapping ritual. And festive fashion is thriving: 53% of pet owners purchase Christmas outfits every year, ensuring plenty of pets will be modelling cosy jumpers, cute pyjamas and glittering seasonal costumes on Christmas Day.
Irish people aren’t shy about treating their furry family members.
43% spend between €20 and €50
More than 20% spend up to €100
A committed 6% spend over €100
These numbers highlight that pet pampering has become a joyful Christmas tradition in its own right.
One of the most surprising findings: 46% of respondents say they would spend more on their pet than their partner. In many households, festive affection appears to favour the one who’s cutest, cuddliest and least likely to complain—and often, that’s the pet.
Over 75% prepare a pet-safe Christmas dinner, making the holiday meal a shared ritual.
More than 66% of pets receive their own stocking filled with treats and toys.
Ireland’s favourite celebrity pets include Misneach (President Michael D. Higgins’ Bernese mountain dog), Triggs (Roy Keane’s dog), Meredith (Taylor Swift’s cat) and Piggy Smallz (Ariana Grande’s pig).
Extravagant gifts reported include designer beds, personalised clothing, automatic feeders, ball pits, custom portraits, crystal bowls, a rabbit balcony, and even overseas holidays.
Standout stories include a five-foot Kevin the Carrot toy and a pet who swallowed a Pandora charm that had been wrapped especially for them.
32% say Irish mammies spoil the pets the most, though partners, dads and kids also contribute to the festive pampering.
These insights confirm that for Irish families, pets are not just companions—they’re cherished members of the household who play a full and festive part in Christmas traditions.
