Cost of food by dog breed: What you should know

Anyone thinking about adding a new four-legged friend to their life needs to consider not only the initial cost and care requirements, but also the ongoing cost of nutrition. In fact, the „cost of food by dog breed“ can hold some surprises, especially if the choice of dog depends on size, activity level and individual health requirements.

The size question: small dog, small costs?

You might spontaneously think that a small dog also means low food costs. Although fluffy companions such as the Chihuahua or the French Bulldog have a tiny stomach, it is not only the portion sizes that are decisive for the costs. Experts recommend special food that is precisely tailored to the specific health needs of the breed in order to prevent deficiency symptoms.

• Chihuahua: Requires around 1.5 to 2 kg of food per month. Costs an average of 20 to 35 euros per month.
• French Bulldog: With a feed requirement of around 3 kg per month, you should allow for 30 to 50 euros.

It is therefore worth taking a closer look and paying attention not only to the size of the animal, but also to the quality of the food, which can make a noticeable difference to your wallet.

Big, bigger, feed costs: what really counts for large breeds

Are large dogs more expensive? Well, if we look at the food requirements, the answer is often yes. But it's not just the volume of food that is relevant. Large breeds such as German Shepherds or St Bernards often need special additional nutrients to keep their joints and bones healthy.

• German shepherd dog: He can easily eat 15 to 20 kg of food per month, which can cost around 60 to 90 euros.
• St Bernard: These gentle giants require an average of 20 to 25 kg of food, at a cost of 90 to 120 euros per month.

Oh my! That adds up to a considerable amount over the year. Dog owners should therefore not underestimate the \costs for food by dog breed\ when planning their monthly expenses.

The activity factor: lots of movement, lots of food

Active dogs are real bundles of energy! But this source of energy has to come from somewhere - from their food, of course. Lively breeds such as the Border Collie or Australian Shepherd have a much higher calorie requirement compared to more leisurely breeds. This means not only more food, but potentially more expensive specialised food to support an active lifestyle.

• Border Collie: Requires between 10 and 15 kg of food per month, depending on the level of activity, which can lead to costs of 50 to 80 euros.
• Australian Shepherd: For similar requirements, the costs can also be between 50 and 80 euros.

So before the dog can chase after the ball, you need to know about the cost of food. This is a crucial point for all those who want to invite an active dog into family life.

Breed-related health aspects: Not all costs are visible costs

Breed differences often also mean different health requirements, and these have a direct impact on nutritional costs. Some breeds are known to have specific health vulnerabilities that can be minimised through targeted feeding, but also incur additional costs.

For example, some large breeds have an increased risk of hip dysplasia, which requires a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamines. Other breeds may be prone to allergies that require a special hypoallergenic diet, which significantly affects the cost factor.

The role of quality: premium or discount?

The market offers a wide range of dog food, from inexpensive to premium products. Deciding on the quality of the food is not just a question of cost, but also depends on the health and well-being of the dog. Premium food often contains higher quality ingredients and additional nutrients, which can be particularly important for sensitive breeds. But it pays off in the long run, because nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy and happy dog's life.

Summary: Planning is the be-all and end-all

The „cost of nutrition by dog breed“ varies considerably depending on the size, activity level and health requirements of the animals. Thorough research in advance can help avoid nasty surprises and create the right nutrition plan. Like any good plan, it can be optimised by managing costs wisely and understanding the specific needs of your faithful companion.

For future dog owners, it may seem tricky to take all aspects into account, but with good planning and a clear overview of the monthly food costs, you can be sure that you have everything under control so that the start of the dog-owning adventure goes as smoothly as possible.

FAQs

How much does food for a dog cost per month?

For good quality premium food, you are looking at around 3 euros per kilogramme. A small dog may need around 100 grams of food per day, while a large four-legged friend can eat up to a kilo. The monthly costs therefore vary greatly and range between 15 and 300 euros.

How much does a nutrition plan for a dog cost?

A customised nutrition plan can cost different amounts depending on the needs and complexity. A ration check starts at 55 euros. For a detailed feeding plan, basic plans start at 90 euros or a plus plan at 135 euros. Specialised plans such as ready-to-eat food or diet plans also start at 90 euros.

How much does a medium-sized dog cost per month?

For a medium-sized dog, the costs can be around 50 to 100 euros per month. These are rough guide values that can vary depending on the breed, activity level and, above all, the quality of the food. Remember that high-quality food contributes significantly to a dog's health and well-being.

What additional feeding costs can occur?

In addition to the main meals, there are often costs for treats, special supplements or therapeutic diet foods. These can increase the monthly food costs by a further 10 to 50 euros, depending on your dog's special needs.

Does it make a difference whether I choose dry or wet food?

Yes, it can make a difference. Dry food tends to be less expensive and have a longer shelf life, while wet food is often more expensive and has special storage requirements. Both options offer pros and cons that should be weighed according to your dog's preference and nutritional health.