As the new year ushers in, the rise in the cost of living has been apparent. And if you’re a dog parent, you might be wondering - Is the cost of dog parentship rising as well?
Today, dog care costs anywhere from $1,000 to $5,225 a year. A big factor is the price of pet food, with some brands seeing increases of up to 80%. Many pet parents say that the biggest impact comes from rising costs of food (63%), treats and toys (48%), and vet visits (47%). Nevertheless, Our pets are family, and we want to provide them with the proper care that they deserve. With this, getting to know more about the costs of responsible dog ownership is important for us to be prepared.
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Content:
- How Much Does Dog Food Cost
- First-Year Dog Parentship Cost
- Dog Parentship Cost After Year One
- Responsible Dog Parentship
- Conclusion
How Much Does Dog Food Cost
The cost of dog food and treats may vary depending on their size, energy, and dietary needs. The amount may also vary, depending on the brand and the type, whether it’s dry, raw, fresh, wet, or prescription food.
In general, the average cost of dog food per month, including treats, ranges from $20-$60 ($250-$700 annually). Note, however, that the price can go as much as $100+ per month when your dog is on a special or prescription diet.
In a chart by ASPCA, the average yearly cost of giving your dog premium dry kibble food is $212 for a small dog, $319 for a medium dog, and $431 for a large dog.
As the bond between humans and their furry companions strengthens, the investment in their health and happiness continues to grow, with pet food being a major part of that care.
First-Year Dog Parentship Cost
“What is the total cost for the first year of parenting a dog?”, you might ask. Bringing home a new dog is exciting, but it is important to know the costs involved to determine if you’re ready and prepared. Annual expenses for food, toys, vaccinations, a flea medicine, among others, range from $1,000 - $6,235.
While that seems steep, breaking it down monthly, from $80- $440 (around $260 on average), might make it more manageable.
The Petcube Cam is a handy device that you might want to consider, especially in the first year of owning a dog. Through the camera, you can monitoring your dog effectively and address issues early on.
In a Reddit post, a Redditor shared in a comment that puppy costs can quickly add up. In her experience, costs on essentials, vet care, training, and a lot of unexpected expenses were incurred. She also stresses the importance of investing in an emergency fund or pet insurance.
Dog Parentship Cost After Year One
Annual cost of dog ownership after year one
After the first year of dog parentship, annual costs can vary significantly, averaging between $1,000 and $5,225. Key expenses include food, toys, treats, and regular vet visits. As pet care prices rise, many dog parents face increased costs, particularly for premium food and medical care.
Average monthly cost of parenting a dog after year one
To manage the costs, many dog parents adopt a steady monthly budget, typically between $80 and $440, adjusting for their dog's specific needs and lifestyle.
Responsible Dog Parentship
Preparing ahead helps make the experience financially manageable. Investing in pet insurance or alternatives such as Petcube Emergency Fund are worth considering to help ensure your dog’s health and safety, as well as give you peace of mind during unexpected situations.
Responsible pet parentship comes with essential costs and the need to ensure that you are able to provide your dog with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare.
According to Dr. Karen Becker, a well-known veterinarian, these five freedoms are important for your do’s physical and mental well-being, helping them thrive and live balanced and happy lives.
Conclusion
Dogs bring endless joy, love, and companionship - all priceless gifts for us dog parents. The costs of parentship, however, can get overwhelming, especially to new dog parents. We may underestimate these expenses, so it’s key to budget ahead.
Understanding what to expect financially will ease any worries and boost our confidence in being a great pet parent. How much we spend depends on the circumstances and our preferences, but prioritizing essentials and spreading out extras can help manage our budget!
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