How Much Do People Spend on Their Dogs?
November 07, 2024 | By David Jackson
Dogs are more than just pets; they’re members of the family. So, it’s no surprise that spending on dogs in the UK has skyrocketed in recent years with pet owners often going above and beyond to ensure their dogs live comfortable, happy lives. However, owning a dog comes with a significant financial commitment, from food and treats to health care, toys, and more.
But exactly how much do people spend on their dogs? Is it an expense that you can plan for, or are there hidden costs that you simply don’t think about? Here we will break down the various costs that come with owning a dog, from food and treats to veterinary care, pet insurance, and initial purchase or adoption costs. That way you can check out the true cost of being a pawrent to your four-legged pal...
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Key Insights
- • Increased Spending: It's true - UK dog owners are spending more on their pets than ever before, with some studies revealing that dog owners are even prioritising their pets’ needs over their own.
- • Veterinary Costs: Vet bills, especially for emergencies, are one of the largest expenses for dog owners. As a result, many choose to take out pet insurance to help manage these costs, which in itself is a cost...
- • Dog Food and Treats: Dog food is a recurring expense, but owners are also spending on high-quality, often premium, food and treats. Some dogs also require special diets, which can increase your monthly spend.
- • Adopt or Buy?: The decision to adopt or purchase a dog can impact how much you send on your pooch in its lifetime. While buying from a breeder can be more expensive upfront and adopting from a shelter a more cost-friendly option, you may find unknown health problems later in life may increase the overall cost of your dog in the long run. Of course, these potential issues are not just applicable to adopted pooches, but it is something the consider.
How Much Do People Spend on Their Dogs?
 The cost of owning a dog varies greatly depending on factors such as breed, size, and health, but one thing is clear; owning a dog is a significant financial responsibility.
In 2020, pet owners in the UK were estimated to be spending an average of £1,000 to £2,000 per year on their dogs, with many spending far more than that. This includes all expenses, from food to healthcare and insurance.
In fact, the UK pet industry is worth an estimated £8.5 billion, with the majority of the spending going towards pet food, veterinary care, and pet insurance premiums.
While the initial cost of a dog may seem manageable, the ongoing expenses can quickly add up, and with the average dog living around 12 to 15 years, owning a dog is a long-term financial commitment you must be prepared for, and realistic about.
How Much Do People Spend on Dog Food?
Food is often the biggest annual expense for dog owners. The type of food you choose - whether it's premium or budget-friendly - can have a significant impact your annual spending.
- • Typical Food Costs: On average, dog owners spend £200 to £600 per year on food, depending on their dog's size and dietary needs. Smaller dogs, who consume less food, will be at the lower end of this range, while larger breeds may push the cost higher.
- • Premium vs. Standard: Many dog owners choose premium brands, which can cost up to £100 per month for high-quality dry or wet food. This is a big increase from basic supermarket brands, which typically cost around £30 to £50 per month.
- • Wet vs. Dry Food: Wet food tends to be more expensive than dry kibble with wet foods typically costing £1 to £3 per meal. Dry foods, though, can often priced at £15 to £50 per bag, depending on the quality and quantity.
- • Specialised Diets: Some dogs have specific dietary needs due to allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions. Special foods can cost up to £100 per month especially if prescribed by a vet!
How Much Do People Spend on Dog Treats?
For many folk, treats are an essential part of owning a dog. They are often used for training, rewarding good behaviour, and simply treating your pup to something special. But while treats might seem like small purchases, they can quickly add up.
How Much Do People Spend on Dog Toys?
Toys can be a point of contention amongst dog owners. Some love them as they provide a quick way to stimulate your pooch, others think they're a waste arguing that your dog will get all it needs from being in nature, sniffing and, well, being a dog.
But no matter which camp you fall into, toys continue to be a huge expense for many owners, especially if you own an active or energetic breed. There’s also a growing trend of buying designer, eco-friendly, or interactive toys, which can add to the cost.
- • Annual Toy Spend: The average UK dog owner spends between £50 and £150 annually on dog toys. However, that cost can vary depending on breed and play habits.
- • Standard Toys: Simple toys such as balls, ropes, and plush toys cost between £5 and £15 each. Meanwhile, interactive toys like puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys can be priced between £10 and £30.
- • Durable Toys: If you're the pawrent of a breed like the Rottweiler, German Shepherd or a Mastiff, you've probably checked out the durable toy market for something that can't be shredded within 5 minutes, but these durable, chew-resistant toys cost between £10 and £20 (and some of the time they're not actually that durable...)
- • Designer and Eco-Friendly Toys: Sustainable toys, such as those made from recycled materials or designer items, can cost upwards of £30 per toy.
How Much Do People Spend on Vets?
Regular veterinary care is crucial for keeping your dog healthy and preventing costly medical issues down the line but it can be a costly venture with emergency care often far more expensive than routine visits.
 - • Routine Vet Visits: These cost between £150 and £300 per year for check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite treatments.
- • Emergency Care: Emergencies and surgeries are where vet bills can get out of hand.
Depending on the nature of the problem, emergency treatments can cost anywhere from £500 to £3,000, with surgeries reaching the higher end.
- • Preventive Healthcare: Preventive treatments such as parasite control, vaccinations, and dental care can add around £50 to £150 to your annual costs.
- • Health Plans: Many pet owners opt for health plans which can cover routine treatments and some emergencies.
These plans are usually between £10 and £50 per month but can vary on breed, health status and ages of your dog with some vets increasing the prices as your pooch ages.
How Much Do People Spend on Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance is an increasingly popular option for managing the cost of veterinary care, particularly in the case of emergencies. But, premiums can vary depending on factors like your dog’s breed, age, and the level of coverage.
- • Average Premiums: The average UK dog owner pays £20 to £30 per month for pet insurance. This works out to £240 to £360 per year.
- • Comprehensive Coverage: For more extensive coverage, including surgeries, chronic conditions, and preventive care, owners may pay between £30 to £50 per month, or around £360 to £600 per year.
- • Basic vs. Comprehensive: Basic policies that cover accidents and injuries typically cost less, but may not cover routine visits or long-term health issues. Comprehensive plans that cover a broader range of services are more expensive but can save you money in the long run if your dog experiences serious health issues.
How Much Do People’s Dogs Cost?
The initial cost of getting a dog depends on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder.
- • Buying a Dog: The cost of buying a dog can vary significantly based on breed, age, and the breeder’s reputation. Pedigree dogs that are registered with the Kennel Club can cost anywhere from £500 to £2,000. Although, certain popular breeds like French Bulldogs or Poodles can cost even more - up to £5,000!
- • Adopting a Dog: Adoption fees are typically much lower with shelter adoption fees generally ranging from £50 to £150, though some may charge more for certain breeds. Adoption is a more cost-effective option, and many rescue organisations also cover vaccinations, microchipping, and neutering in the adoption fee.
Adopt or Buy?
In the UK, around 40% of dog owners adopt from shelters, while 60% purchase from breeders.
While both options have their advantages, adopting a dog from a shelter can be a more affordable route, especially considering the adoption fees typically cover basic health checks.
In Conclusion
Owning a dog is a rewarding but expensive responsibility. It’s essential to plan for both short-term and long-term costs, from adoption fees to ongoing expenses like food, treats, toys, and healthcare. With the right budgeting, you can provide a happy, healthy life for your dog without breaking the bank.
Methodology
This article draws from research studies and surveys from organisations such as Pet Product Marketing, Rover, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, and Compare the Market. The numbers presented are averages, and actual expenses may vary depending on the size, breed, and health of your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I expect to spend on dog food annually?
On average, dog food costs range from £200 to £600 per year, depending on your dog's size and dietary needs, with premium diets often pushing costs higher.
Is pet insurance worth the expense?
Pet insurance can be essential for covering high emergency costs, with basic policies starting at about £20 monthly (on average, some may be much lower depending on the type of cover you choose), while comprehensive plans can be £30–£50 monthly.
Are there ways to lower veterinary costs?
Yes, preventive care and choosing a health plan with your vet can help manage costs by covering regular check-ups and some emergency care at reduced rates. However, if your dog doesn't require regular vet visits or medicines, you may find pet plans can become quite costly for how often you use them.
Related Blog Posts Section
More From Our Blog
|
