Owning a dog is an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience – if you can afford it
Dogs are considered man's best friend, and its impossible to put a price on the love and loyalty of a beloved pet. But with the cost of living crisis still ongoing, taking care of a dog can be a costly experience.
Some 36% of households in the UK own a dog, with Labradors, border collies and cocker spaniels topping the list of most popular breeds. Last year, a study by Tesco Bank revealed 5.3 million people nationwide are reportedly worried “they can no longer afford the upkeep of their pets”, and 49% of all dog owners said the increased cost of living impacted how much they spend on their furry friend.
Prospective owners can find out whether a dog is the right financial decision for them by using a Dog Affordability Calculator, created by dog experts at the Kennel Store. Taking into account monthly wage, living costs, and current number of pets, the calculator then generates your affordability result, giving you a clear indication whether or not you’re in a position to afford a dog and its proper care.
A spokesman said: “The UK is a nation of dog lovers, with around 12 million households having dogs as pets. But being able to afford man's best friend is dependent on many factors, and knowing exactly how much it will cost per month can be overwhelming. We have created the Dog Affordability Calculator to help prospective dog owners understand the cost of dog ownership, and the calculator will help you know how many dogs you can afford.
“Owning a dog is an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience but ensuring you are financially able to look after them is an important factor to consider to ensure you can provide them with a good life and it is a good financial decision for you and your household.”
There are also a few money-saving tips you can follow that can slightly ease the financial pressures of owning a dog:
Food and Treats
Buy in bulk: Buying dog food and treats in larger quantities can often result in savings as they are typically cheaper per gram than buying smaller bags or cans of dog food.
Cook homemade dog food: This can be healthier and more cost-effective than supermarket options, especially if you use leftovers.
Consider own-brand options: Own brands are often as good as higher-priced options and still offer the nutrients your dog needs.
Make your own treats: There are lots of healthy, homemade treat recipes that you can DIY at home that are still nutritionally beneficial for your dog and easy to make.
Healthcare
Pet insurance: While it may seem like an added expense, pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills and help with paying for major surgeries if this is required. One in three pets will need emergency medical treatment in their lifetime, so being covered is incredibly important.
Preventative care: Keep on top of your pet's health with regular check-ups, vaccinations, and dental appointments can help prevent costly health problems in the long run.
Grooming
Groom your dog yourself: With a little practice, you can learn to groom your dog at home, saving money on professional grooming. Shampooing and general clipping can be jobs that can be completed at home and don’t always need to be done professionally, but always be careful.
Adopting and shopping
Adopt, don't shop: Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue is often much more affordable than buying a puppy from a breeder, and more ethical.
Shop around: Compare prices at different pet shops and online retailers to find the best deals on collars, leads, and other essentials to save money.
