Food costs for dogs: what you need to know to budget correctly

A dog in the house is like a loyal family member who stands by your side in good times and bad. But like any family member, your four-legged friend has needs that need to be met - and that includes the right food, of course. When it comes to dog food costs, the range of expenses can vary greatly depending on the breed of dog, individual dietary preferences and the specific needs of the pet. But don't worry, we'll shed some light on the subject and help you to realistically estimate the food costs for your beloved four-legged friend.

The basic costs: How much does it cost to feed a dog?

Let's start with the basics. The basic food costs for dogs depend on the size and breed of your dog. Smaller breeds logically need less food than large dogs. But it's not just the quantity that determines the price, but also the type of food.

For most dog owners, the choice is between dry food, wet food or a mixture of both. Here is a rough overview:

• Dry food: Between 20 and 50 euros per month, depending on the brand and pack size.
• Wet food: Can cost between 40 and 70 euros per month, as the water content is higher and more feed is required.
• Mixed diet: Many dogs benefit from a combination of both, which can raise the monthly costs to around 50 to 90 euros.

Of course, there are cheaper options out there, but when it comes to extremely affordable foods, you should keep an eye on the quality. Ultimately, you want to make sure your dog gets all the nutrients it needs for a happy and healthy life.

Premium food and special diets: when is the higher price worth it?

Now to the hard core: the world of premium and speciality foods. Especially for dogs with intolerances or health challenges, standard supermarket food just won't cut it. Here are a few situations where it makes sense to invest in the good stuff:

• Allergies and intolerances: Hypoallergenic food can work wonders for dogs with certain allergies, but usually costs between 60 and 100 euros per month.
• Dietetics: If your dog suffers from a disease such as diabetes or kidney problems, there are specially formulated diet foods that are also in a higher price segment.
• Barfing (Raw feeding): Some owners swear by raw feeding ("biologically appropriate raw feed"), but this involves considerable planning and expense. The monthly costs can easily exceed 100 euros.

The role of breed: why size and activity are important

Now that you've learnt about both standard and specialty food options, remember that your dog's breed not only affects his nutritional needs, but also how much food he actually needs.

• Small breeds such as Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier require less food: about 30 to 40 euros per month.
• Medium sized breeds such as Beagle or Cocker Spaniel: The monthly costs usually climb to 50 to 80 euros.
• Large breeds such as German Shepherds or Labradors require more calories: Expect to pay 100 to 150 euros per month.

Don't forget that your dog's individual activity level can also have a drastic effect on their calorie requirements. A high performance athlete dog might need more food than a lazy couch potato of the same breed!

Disadvantages of saving money: Why cheap isn't always better

You may be tempted to save money, after all, even the most robust budget will eventually run out. But before you allow your dog the discount dry food as a permanent diet, consider the potential disadvantages that may occur in the long term:

• Malnutrition: Cheaper feed options often come from inferior raw materials, which can lead to a lack of nutrients.
• Health problems: Poor quality can lead to skin problems and digestive complaints.
• Longer veterinary costs: Poor nutritional status can affect your dog's health and ultimately lead to higher veterinary costs.

It is also worth taking a closer look at the mid-range options, which often offer better value for money.

Budget planning: How to calculate the feed costs

Planning is the be-all and end-all when it comes to dog food costs. After all, you don't want to realise at the end of the month that your faithful companion is going hungry. Here are some tips on how you can plan these expenses better:

1. Create a list: Start by creating a shopping list for dog products (including food).
2. Use savings offers: Keep an eye out for discount promotions and buy in bulk to reduce prices.
3. Keep a food diary: Make a note of how much your dog eats each day to adjust the budget accordingly.
4. Create a feed plan: A structured plan can help avoid unnecessary expenditure and ensure that your dog gets the right amount of food.

With a well thought-out plan, it's child's play to include dog food costs in your monthly budget without running into financial difficulties.

The bottom line: an investment in the future

At the end of the day, your choice of food reflects your appreciation of your dog. It's up to you to give them a fulfilling and healthy life by not compromising on the quality of their food. With the right approach and a little planning, you can organise your dog's food costs in such a way that both your four-legged friend is happy and your wallet remains intact. So, don't rush or try to save money! Invest wisely and enjoy the years with your furry companion by your side.

FAQs on food costs for dogs

How much does food for a dog cost per month?

The monthly cost of dog food can vary greatly. For high-quality premium food, you should expect to pay around 3 euros per kilogramme. A small dog may only need 100 to 200 grams of food per day, while a large dog can eat up to 1 kilogramme or more. Overall, the cost per month can be between 20 and 300 euros, depending on the quality and quantity of food.

How should you plan the food budget for a dog?

Start with a realistic estimate of the monthly costs, depending on the size and activity level of your dog. Make sure you budget at least 50 to 100 euros per month. Take into account possible price fluctuations and special promotions to ensure cost-effective purchasing in the long term.

What does a nutrition plan for dogs cost?

A personalised nutrition plan for dogs can be very useful, especially for health problems or special dietary requirements. The costs vary:

• Ration check: from € 55
• Feeding plan for an adult animal: Basic € 90 / Plus € 135
• Feed plan ready-to-eat: 90 €
• Feeding plan part-barf: 90 €
• Feeding plan for a sick animal: Basic € 135 / Plus € 185

Are premium food brands worthwhile?

Premium food brands can be worthwhile if you attach particular importance to high-quality ingredients and a balanced diet. They are generally better tolerated and support your dog's general health. Whether the additional costs pay off depends on your dog's individual state of health and needs.

Can I save money with homemade dog food?

Yes, homemade dog food can be an inexpensive and healthy alternative, provided it is properly balanced. Make sure it contains all the necessary nutrients and consult a vet if in doubt. Homemade food can be particularly useful for dogs with allergies or intolerances.