Costs for dog care and boarding by dog breed
Dogs are more than just our faithful companions - they are members of the family. But as with any member of the family, there are costs to consider for our furry friends, especially if you are unable to look after them yourself. The Costs for dog care and boarding by dog breed vary considerably, and it is important to calculate these costs in advance to avoid surprises later on.
The basics of dog care costs
Dog care is more than just feeding and walking. It includes everything a dog needs to stay happy and healthy while their owners are away. From basic dog sitting services to luxury boarding kennels, costs can vary depending on the specific needs of the dog breed.
Why the dog breed plays a role
Ah, breed differences! Not only the appearance, but also behaviour and needs differ depending on the dog breed. These differences can have a significant impact on the cost of care. For example, a small Chihuahua needs less food and space than a large St Bernard. Some factors that play a role here are
- Size of the dog
- Activity level
- Coat care products
- Health requirements
Typical services and their costs
Let's take a look at the most important services you should consider:
Boarding kennels
Probably the best-known option is dog boarding. These offer accommodation and care while you are not available. Prices can vary greatly depending on location and facilities:
- Basic facilities without extras: 15-25 € per night
- Guesthouses with additional playroom and activities: €30-50 per night
- Luxury guesthouses with spa treatments: €50-100 per night
Dog sitter
Sometimes it is more personal to leave the dog in its familiar surroundings. A dog sitter will visit your home to feed and walk the dog. Typical costs are:
- One visit per day: 10-20 €
- Several visits per day or overnight: 30-50 €
Dog walking service
If your dog needs daily exercise and you are not available, professional dog walking services offer a solution. On average, you can expect to pay around €15-30 per walk, depending on the duration and geographical location.
Costs depending on the dog breed: some examples
But now for the interesting question: How do the costs differ according to dog breed? Let's go through a few examples:
Small dogs (e.g. Chihuahua, Dachshund)
Small dogs tend to have lower care costs. They need less food and require less space, which results in cheaper boarding.
- Dog boarding: 15-25 € per night
- Dog sitter: approx. 10-20 € per visit
- Dog walking service: from €12 per walk
Medium-sized dogs (e.g. Beagle, Border Collie)
Medium-sized dogs have a higher activity requirement, which can result in higher costs for walking services. In addition, they often require regular grooming.
- Dog boarding: € 25-40 per night
- Dog sitter: 15-30 € per visit
- Dog walking service: 15-30 € per walk
Large dogs (e.g. St Bernard, Great Dane)
Large dogs usually cost more to look after as they require larger amounts of food and more intensive care. Some boarding kennels even specialise in such large breeds and offer plenty of space to play.
- Dog boarding: 35-60 € per night
- Dog sitter: 25-40 € per visit
- Dog walking service: 20-35 € per walk
Coat care - an often forgotten cost aspect
Ah, the fur! It not only makes us proud, but can also be a challenge to care for. Breed-related characteristics in particular make the Coat care costs quite varied. Some dog breeds, such as the Poodle or the Siberian Husky, require regular professional grooming to avoid matting and look good all year round. The cost can be between €30 and €100 per visit, depending on the amount of grooming and the location.
Take health requirements into account
Some breeds have specific health requirements that may incur additional care costs. For example, brachycephalic breeds (dog breeds with shortened skulls, such as bulldogs) often require special air-conditioned accommodation in the summer. Health requirements can significantly increase the cost of care, so this should be considered from the outset.
How to choose the right childcare options
Choosing the right care for your dog is important for his well-being and also for your peace of mind. Here are some points you should consider:
- Spend a rehearsal night in the guesthouse before a long journey.
- Interview the dog sitter and pay attention to the chemistry between him and your dog.
- Read reviews and take a look at the premises at Gassi-Services.
At the end
The Costs for dog care and boarding by dog breed are an important factor when planning trips or when you are away. The better you understand and are prepared for these costs, the more you and your dog will be able to enjoy your time together, without it affecting your finances. A well-planned care strategy guarantees the well-being of your best friend - and your wallet.
FAQs
How much can you charge for dog care?
Prices for dog care vary depending on the service. A dog sitter can charge between €10 and €20 per hour, while an overnight stay in a kennel can cost between €15 and €60 per night, depending on the facilities and location. Additional charges may apply for specialised services such as medical care or special diets.
How much does a dog sitter cost per month?
The monthly cost of a dog sitter depends on the frequency of visits. At an average price of 10 to 15 euros per visit, daily care can cost around 300 to 450 euros per month. If permanent overnight care is required, the cost could be up to 400 euros or more per month.
Can I deduct the cost of dog care from my tax bill?
Yes, the costs of looking after a pet can be claimed for tax purposes as household-related services under certain conditions. It is important to document the services properly and submit invoices. This applies to both dog-sitting services and boarding services, provided the payments are made directly from the household.
Author
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David is a passionate aquarist with more than 20 years of experience in setting up and maintaining freshwater and saltwater aquariums. He specialises in the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems, aquascaping and the species-appropriate keeping of aquarium fish. His articles on haustierewissen.de are a treasure trove for aquarium enthusiasts looking for sound advice and creative ideas for their underwater worlds.
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