We Investigated Pet Apps: Here’s What They Know About You

National Love your pets day.

Pet care apps have become essential tools for modern pet owners. From tracking your dog’s walks to monitoring your cat’s health, these apps promise convenience, peace of mind, and better pet care. But behind the adorable interfaces lies a deeper story about data collection, profiling, and privacy risks.

We conducted an in-depth investigation into popular pet apps to understand exactly what data they collect, how they use it, and what it means for your privacy. The findings may surprise you.

The Rise of Pet Apps and the Data Economy

The global pet tech market is booming. According to industry reports, the pet care app sector is projected to grow significantly as more owners rely on digital tools to manage pet health, behavior, and safety.

Popular apps include:

• Pet health trackers
• GPS pet location apps
• Pet social networks
• Training and behavior apps
• Veterinary teleconsultation platforms

While these apps offer real benefits, they also operate within a data-driven economy where user information is a valuable asset.

What Data Do Pet Apps Collect?

Most users assume pet apps only collect information about their pets. Our investigation found that many collect far more.

1. Personal Identification Data

• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Home address

This information is typically collected during account registration.

2. Location Data

Many pet apps request continuous location access, especially GPS tracking apps.

This allows them to:

• Track your pet’s real-time location
• Monitor walking routes
• Analyze movement patterns

However, this also reveals sensitive information about your daily routines, home location, and frequently visited places.

3. Device and Usage Data

Apps often collect:

• Device type and OS
• IP address
• App usage behavior
• Session duration

This data helps improve performance but is also used for analytics and advertising.

4. Pet-Specific Data

• Pet breed
• Age and weight
• Medical history
• Feeding habits

While this seems harmless, it can be used to infer lifestyle and spending habits.

5. Behavioral and Social Data

Some apps include social features, collecting:

• Photos and videos
• Comments and interactions
• Friend networks

This creates detailed behavioral profiles of users.

Real-Life Example: The Hidden Value of Pet Data

During our analysis of several pet tracking apps, we found that location data collected for pet safety was also being shared with third-party analytics providers.

In one case, a pet walking app stored detailed logs of routes and times. This data could potentially reveal:

• When users are not at home
• Daily routines and habits
• Frequently visited parks and locations

This type of information is highly valuable for advertisers and, if misused, could pose security risks.

Case Study: Third-Party Data Sharing in Mobile Apps

A study by the Federal Trade Commission found that many mobile apps share user data with third parties without clear disclosure.

This includes:

• Advertising networks
• Data brokers
• Analytics companies

You can review the FTC’s findings here: https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/privacy-security/mobile-privacy-disclosures

In the context of pet apps, this means your data may travel far beyond the app you installed.

Why Pet Apps Collect So Much Data

The answer lies in monetization.

Most pet apps are free or low-cost. To sustain their business models, they rely on:

Advertising Revenue

User data helps deliver targeted ads, increasing ad effectiveness and revenue.

Data Analytics

Aggregated data is used to identify trends, such as:

• Popular pet breeds
• Consumer behavior
• Health patterns

Partnerships and Data Sharing

Some apps partner with:

• Pet product companies
• Insurance providers
• Veterinary services

This allows them to offer services but also involves data sharing.

Privacy Risks You Should Know

Our investigation identified several key risks.

1. Lack of Transparency

Many privacy policies are long and complex, making it difficult for users to understand what they are agreeing to.

2. Continuous Location Tracking

Always-on GPS tracking can expose sensitive personal information.

3. Data Breaches

Pet apps, like any digital platform, can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. A breach could expose personal and location data.

4. Profiling and Targeted Advertising

Data collected can be used to build detailed profiles, influencing what ads you see and even how services are priced.

5. Weak Security Practices

Some apps lack strong encryption or secure data storage practices, increasing risks.

What the Law Says About Your Data

Data protection laws vary by region, but some of the most influential frameworks include:

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR applies to users in the European Union and sets strict rules on:

• Data collection
• User consent
• Data access rights

Learn more here: https://gdpr.eu/what-is-gdpr/

Other Data Protection Frameworks

Countries around the world, including Nigeria, are strengthening data protection laws to ensure user privacy.

Key principles include:

• Transparency
• Accountability
• Data minimization
• Security

How to Protect Your Privacy When Using Pet Apps

You don’t need to stop using pet apps. Instead, take smart precautions.

1. Review Permissions Carefully

Only grant permissions that are necessary. For example, allow location access only when using the app.

2. Read the Privacy Policy

Look for:

• What data is collected
• How it is used
• Whether it is shared with third parties

3. Disable Unnecessary Tracking

Turn off:

• Background location tracking
• Data sharing for analytics

4. Use Strong Passwords

Protect your account with a unique, secure password.

5. Choose Trusted Apps

Opt for apps with:

• Good reviews
• Transparent policies
• Regular updates

Table: Types of Data vs Potential Risks

Data Type	Purpose	Potential Risk
Personal Info	Account creation	Identity exposure
Location Data	Tracking pets	Revealing daily routines
Device Data	App optimization	Tracking user behavior
Pet Health Data	Care recommendations	Profiling spending habits
Social Data	Community features	Behavioral profiling

Expert Insight: Why This Matters

As a data protection perspective, even seemingly harmless apps can create a detailed digital footprint.

When multiple data points are combined, they can reveal:

• Your habits
• Your location patterns
• Your lifestyle and preferences

This is known as data profiling, and it is a key concern in modern privacy discussions.

The Future of Pet Apps and Privacy

The pet tech industry will continue to grow, and so will data collection practices.

We can expect:

• More AI-driven pet insights
• Integration with smart home devices
• Increased data sharing across platforms

At the same time, regulatory scrutiny will increase, pushing companies toward better transparency and security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do pet apps sell my data?

Not always directly, but many share data with third-party partners for analytics or advertising.

Is location tracking necessary?

For GPS tracking apps, yes. However, continuous tracking is not always required and can often be limited.

Are paid apps safer than free apps?

Not necessarily. While some paid apps rely less on advertising, they can still collect significant data.

Can I delete my data from pet apps?

Most apps allow data deletion, but the process may vary. Check the app’s privacy policy for details.

What is the safest way to use pet apps?

• Limit permissions
• Choose reputable apps
• Regularly review settings
• Stay informed about privacy risks

Final Thoughts

Pet apps offer incredible convenience, but they also come with hidden privacy trade-offs. Understanding what data is collected and how it is used empowers you to make informed decisions.

As digital tools become more integrated into our lives, awareness is your strongest defense. By taking simple steps to protect your data, you can enjoy the benefits of pet technology without compromising your privacy.