A new breed of pet daycare centres is gaining popularity in China as owners increasingly treat their pets like family members, driving demand for premium animal care services.
In Shanghai, Paw³ — a dog kindergarten — offers structured daily activities including interactive games, obstacle courses, freshly prepared snacks, exercise sessions and nap time accompanied by classical music.
The trend reflects shifting lifestyles among younger urban consumers, many of whom are spending more on pets amid declining birth rates and changing family dynamics. Pet owners are increasingly investing in daycare, grooming, training and wellness services to enhance their animals’ quality of life.
According to industry research firm Pet Data, China’s urban pet consumption market reached 312.6 billion yuan (US$46 billion) in 2025 and is projected to exceed 405 billion yuan by 2028.
Founded by Jann Zhang after experiencing behavioural issues with his own dog, Paw³ has grown rapidly from fewer than 20 clients to around 200. The centre charges between 98 yuan and 138 yuan per day, depending on the dog’s size.
For many owners, the appeal lies in giving their pets a dedicated space to socialise, exercise and receive care while they are at work.
