Total costs for dogs: what owners should know

Do you dream of bringing a four-legged friend into your home? That's wonderful! Dogs enrich our lives, filling them with joy and love - but they are not free. The total cost of dogs is a significant factor that future and current dog owners should not underestimate. Let's take a detailed look at what it really costs to keep a dog.

Acquisition costs: The first step to dog happiness

So, you're ready to enter the world of dog lovers? Before you bring that cute puppy into your home, you first need to consider the purchase costs. These vary greatly depending on the breed and origin of the four-legged friend.

• Purchase from a breeder: A pedigree dog can cost between 500 and 2,500 euros. Rare breeds or those with a pedigree can be even more expensive.
• Animal welfare organisations: If you give a dog a home from an animal shelter, you usually pay a protection fee of between 100 and 400 euros.
• Additional expenses: Remember that accessories such as bowls, leads, collars and toys often have to be purchased with the purchase. This can quickly cost another 100 to 300 euros.

Cost of living: more than just food

The ongoing costs of keeping a dog healthy and happy should not be overlooked. They include food, grooming, vet visits and much more.

Feed and nutritional requirements: Depending on size and Energy level of your dog, high-quality food costs between 30 and 100 euros a month. Of course, your spoilt four-legged friend may also want something particularly tasty from time to time.

Health care: Regular visits to the vet for vaccinations, worming and check-ups are a must. This can cost between 150 and 300 euros a year. Unforeseen illnesses can quickly cause the costs to skyrocket.

Care and hygiene: Does your dog need regular walks at the groomer or grooming? Then you can quickly add another 30 to 70 euros per month.

Insurance costs: safety first

Accidents happen, and if your dog harms someone or is injured itself, the costs can be exponential. This is where insurance comes into play.

• Dog liability insurance: In some federal states it is even compulsory. The annual premiums vary between 50 and 150 euros, depending on the breed and amount of cover.
• Health insurance: Dog health insurance can cost between 100 and 600 euros per year, depending on the chosen insurance package. However, it can be a real saviour in the event of expensive operations.

Other important expenses: Taxes and co.

Have you already heard about the Dog tax heard? That's right! It varies depending on the municipality and is usually between 25 and 180 euros per year. There are also occasional expenses for training, dog boarding when travelling on holiday or even legal expenses insurance.

Training and behaviour modification, whether at a dog school or with a personal trainer, can cost between 20 and 100 euros per hour. Well, that adds up!

Why is it worth it?

Now that we've listed all the costs, you might be asking yourself: is it worth it? A resounding YES! The endless loyalty, love and moments of happiness that a dog brings are priceless. Of course, you shouldn't underestimate the commitment, but if you prepare well, you'll have the best friend you could wish for by your side.

So, before you dive into the dog adventure, realise that the overall cost of dogs is a major consideration. With the right planning, you and your dog can have a wonderful and carefree life. Happy Tails!

FAQs

What are the monthly costs for a dog?

The monthly costs for a dog can vary greatly depending on size, breed and individual needs. For a small and healthy dog, you should expect to pay between 50 and 100 euros per month. A large dog will cost you around 100 to 200 euros per month. You can expect to pay more, especially for very large animals or listed dogs.

How much does a dog cost with all the trimmings?

The total cost of a dog includes the purchase price, ongoing costs for food, grooming, vet, insurance and other expenses such as taxes and training. In total, the costs can easily amount to 1,000 to 2,500 euros or more in the first year, depending on individual needs and the breed of dog.

What does a dog need in terms of costs?

Various costs are incurred for a dog, including the purchase costs (if they do not come from an animal shelter), food, visits to the vet, vaccinations, medication, care products, insurance and taxes. Any training sessions, boarding kennels or special equipment must also be taken into account.

Are there ways to save on dog costs?

Yes, there are ways to reduce the costs somewhat. For example, you can buy food in bulk to find discounts. Regular grooming can save money in the long run by preventing dental problems and other health issues, for example. Adopting a mixed breed from a shelter instead of an expensive pedigree dog can also be a favourable option.

How often should I take my dog to the vet?

Ideally, a dog should visit the vet at least once a year for a general check-up and booster vaccinations. For younger dogs and puppies, more frequent visits are necessary to complete health checks and vaccination series. For older dogs, it may be advisable to have them examined more frequently in order to recognise age-related diseases at an early stage.