Food costs per dog breed: How much does food cost for your four-legged friend?

Dogs are man's best friend, but also friends that can be a drain on our wallets. Although we're willing to pay the price for their genuineness and loyalty, it's helpful to know what you're getting into when it comes to food costs depending on the breed of dog. Don't panic! This article serves to provide clarity on how nutritional costs vary for different dog breeds and what to consider to keep your furry companion well-fed and happy.

Size matters: Small dog, small costs?

Let's start with the frequently asked question: does the size of the dog really make a difference? In short, yes, it does. Smaller dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas or Dachshunds, typically require less food than their larger counterparts. This means lower monthly food costs. Sounds good, right?

• Small dogs such as Chihuahuas require around 30 euros per month.
• A dachshund could cost around 40 euros in food.
• Yorkshire Terriers fit into a similar price range as Chihuahuas.

But even at this lower cost, quality is key. A small bag of high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will save money in the long run by improving your dog's health and reducing vet visits.

Medium-sized dog breeds: The golden mean?

In many ways, medium-sized dog breeds are the happy medium - in terms of temperament, size and, of course, food requirements. Take the Border Collie, for example, a dog breed known for its energy. Their food requirements can be much higher than those of a less active dog of the same size.

• Border Collies need an average of around 50-70 euros per month for food.
• Beagles, which are also medium-sized and very active, cost around 60 euros per month.
• Cocker Spaniels, with a slightly lower energy level, have food costs of around 50 euros per month.

It is clear to see that the dog's activity level is just as important as its size when it comes to calculating the cost of food. As a rule of thumb, the more active the dog, the more food it needs.

Large dog breeds: Big heart, big hunger!

Large dog breeds such as Great Danes or St Bernards are true giants - and not just when it comes to their physical size. These dogs often have big hearts and, oh boy, a big appetite!

• Great Danes often require food costs of 150 euros or more per month.
• A St Bernard can even cost up to 200 euros a month to feed.
• Leonbergers, on the other hand, with a more moderate appetite, can cost around 120 euros.

For large dogs, it is not only the quantity but also the quality and nutrient density of their diet that is crucial. High-quality dry or wet food, often supplemented with special diets, ensures that these gentle giants can lead a long and healthy life.

Special dietary requirements: What if Fido is fussy?

Sometimes the cost of food depends on more than just the size or activity of the dog. Some dogs have special nutritional needs. Like us, dogs can suffer from allergies, intolerances or other health problems that restrict or specify their diet.

1. Dogs with allergies require hypoallergenic food, which is often more expensive.
2. Older dogs or those with joint problems may need special food that is adapted for osteoarthritis or other signs of ageing.
3. Some breeds, such as the Dalmatian, are known for their special dietary requirements due to genetic problems.

The rule for special nutritional requirements is simple: don't save money in the wrong place. In the long term, high-quality special foods will save you a lot of vet costs.

Want to treat your dog to more? Additional treats cost extra!

Although we've mainly focused on the main food, many new dog owners forget the cost of additional treats. These small rewards are important for training and bonding with your dog, but the cost quickly adds up.

• Treats for small dogs such as liver sausage paste or chewing bones often start at 10 euros per month.
• Larger chewing bones or more elaborate treats for large breeds could cost 20 to 30 euros per month.

Always remember that treats are not absolutely necessary, but are still a wonderful way to give your dog an extra treat. They are the icing on the cake in your dog's life, but not the daily bread.

Conclusion: Not all that glitters is gold

No matter what breed of dog you want as a future family member, keeping a well-fed dog means more than just weighing up the cost of food for each breed. Consider your dog's individual needs and plan your monthly expenses carefully. Don't overlook the influence of size, activity level and health needs on food requirements.

Invest in the health of your furry friend with nutritious, high-quality food, because ultimately a healthy dog is a happy dog. And a happy dog means countless wonderful moments full of love and adventure! The joy that a dog brings to your life should be more important than the cost. After all, nothing can replace the bond between you and your dog - not even a few euros saved.

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 a day, while a large four-legged friend can eat up to a kilo of food. The monthly cost of dog food can therefore vary greatly depending on the size and activity of the dog. Anything from 15 to 300 euros per month is possible.

How much does it cost to feed a dog per day?

The daily cost of food depends heavily on the size, activity and specific nutritional needs of the dog. A small dog could cost around €0.50 to €1.00 per day to feed, whereas large or very active dogs can cost between €3.00 and €5.00 per day.

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

The total annual costs for a medium-sized dog vary greatly depending on the food chosen and the dog's individual needs. On average, you should expect food costs of around 500 to 900 euros per year. There may also be additional costs for food supplements or special diets.

What feed costs are incurred for special nutritional requirements?

Dogs with special dietary needs, such as allergies or health problems, may require special diets. Such special diets are often more expensive than standard diets, which can increase the monthly cost by 20% to 50%, depending on the specific diet and problem.