The cost of owning a dog

Thinking about getting a dog. That’s awesome. A furry friend can bring so much joy into your life. But before you bring home a new pet, it’s good to know the real costs.

Dogs are not free, and their expenses go beyond just buying them. This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay as a dog owner. We’ll look at everything from adoption fees to vet visits and treats.

The Cost to Get a Dog

How much you pay for a dog really depends on where you find one. Adopting from a local rescue shelter is usually cheaper. The fee helps the shelter run, so think of it as a donation too.

For an adult dog from a rescue, expect around £150. Puppies might be £200. This often includes veterinary care, first shots, microchipping, and spay or neuter services. That’s a great deal. You might have fewer choices, but rescue dogs are often very loving pets.

Buying from a registered breeder costs more. The price changes with the dog’s specific breed, its family lines, and how popular that breed is. These are usually puppies, which means more training and special care at first.

Prices from a breeder can range from £500 to £3,000. This usually just gets you the dog and maybe a first vet visit. Rare breeds or large purebreds can be much more. A purebred Samoyed, for example, could cost up to £15,000.

Food Expenses

Your dog’s diet cost changes based on its needs. Bigger dogs, for example, need more food. Sometimes, they need higher-quality food made for larger breeds to stay healthy. A puppy needs special food to grow big and strong. Older dogs might need food made for seniors to keep them well.

On average, basic dog food might cost about £25 a month. That adds up to about £300 each year to feed your dog. If you pick raw food or grain-free options, expect to pay more. These special diets often increase the total food bill.

Toys, Bedding & Treats

When you get a dog, you’ll need some basics. This includes toys and a comfy bed. Toys will wear out and need replacing, especially as your dog grows or plays a lot. Beds and crates also need updating or replacing over time.

You’ll want several key items. Think about a good lead, food and water bowls, a dog bed, and treats. A dog crate can also be useful for training and safety. Collars or harnesses are a must-have too. When you first get your dog, prepare to spend around £250 to £500 for these necessities.

Smaller breeds, like Chihuahuas, might need coats or vests in cold weather, adding to the cost. Also, plan for around £5 to £10 a month just for treats. These small expenses add up but keep your dog happy.

Grooming Needs

Every dog needs grooming, but how much depends on its breed. You can handle basic grooming at home for short-haired dogs, like Labrador Retrievers. Things like brushing and quick washes are easy enough.

But if you have a dog with a long or dense coat, like an English Sheepdog or a Newfoundland, you will need a professional groomer sometimes. Some breeds even have a triple coat that needs very specific care. The cost for grooming changes based on the dog’s size, fur type, and even where you live.

The average price for dog grooming in the UK is around £39. Prices can range from £18 up to £80 or more for bigger or more difficult grooms. Most groomers offer extra services too. They can trim nails, clean ears, and brush teeth, usually for a small added fee.

Vet Costs

When looking at dog breeds, pay attention to their health issues. Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and German Shepherds often have hip dysplasia. Bulldogs and Pugs frequently have breathing problems. These can mean more vet visits down the road.

Microchipping

In the UK, all dogs over eight weeks old must have a microchip. If your dog is found without one, you typically have 21 days to get it done or face a fine. A microchip usually costs about £15 at your local vet. If you adopt from a shelter, the adoption fee often covers microchipping. You just need to update your details.

Routine Vaccinations

Dogs need medical care, just like people. Regular check-ups can cost between £60 and £80, depending on your vet. These visits are important to keep your dog’s shots current. If you want to board your dog or send it to training, proof of current vaccinations is generally needed.

A puppy’s first set of shots can be £100 to £150. Annual booster shots are around £50 each. Some shots, like rabies, can last up to three years before needing an update. If you adopt, your dog often comes with up-to-date vaccinations.

Spaying and Neutering

The cost to spay or neuter your dog depends on its size. Prices vary across the country. Spaying can cost from £130 to £370. Neutering generally ranges from £110 to £300. Adopting from a shelter has another benefit: the dog is usually already spayed or neutered, and this cost is included in the adoption fee.

Emergency Treatment

Accidents happen. If your dog gets hurt late at night, emergency vet services start at about £150 for out-of-hours care. If your pet needs to stay at the hospital, the bill can climb to £500. Average surgery costs are around £1,500. Long-term treatments, like for diabetes or cancer, can easily reach £5,000. Hip dysplasia treatment might cost £1,300 or more.

Pet Insurance: A Smart Choice

Just like health insurance for people, many companies offer plans for pets. Pet insurance policies can cost between £279 and £360 a year, which is about £23 to £30 a month. This price changes based on your pet’s breed, age, and health.

A policy usually helps with treatment costs. But, policies often don’t cover conditions your pet had before you got insurance. They also typically exclude routine things, like vaccinations or spaying/neutering. The Association of British Insurers reports average emergency claims are about £750. However, vet bills can quickly go into thousands.

Many pet owners wonder if pet insurance is truly worth it. Humans have the NHS as a safety net, but pets don’t. What if your dog needs a £2,000 surgery? How would you pay for it? Pet insurance can bring peace of mind, knowing your furry friend is protected.

Some policies even offer extra benefits. They might help cover housing costs for your pet if you end up in the hospital. Some plans protect you if your pet accidentally injures someone. They can even help with advertising fees if your pet gets lost.

Before You Get a Dog

Do plenty of research. This is especially true if you are set on a particular dog breed. Look into the breed’s common health issues. Learn about their specific care needs. The internet has tons of helpful information. You can find many personal stories from owners of all kinds of dogs. This knowledge helps you make the right choice for your family and your future pet.