Costs of keeping a dog: What you need to know

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to have a furry friend by your side? Oh yes, a dog is more than just a pet - it becomes part of the family. But before you adopt your next best friend, you should be aware of the costs of dog ownership. Let's stroll through the essential expenses that await any prospective dog owner, from training to daily feeding.

A question of budget: The total cost by dog breed

It's no secret that not all dogs are equally expensive. Depending on the breed, there are significant differences that may seem surprising at first glance. But why is this actually the case?

• Small dogs: Breeds such as the Chihuahua or the Yorkshire Terrier are often cheaper to keep. Why? They need less food, which is particularly important compared to their larger counterparts. The monthly costs for food and necessary care can amount to around 30-50 euros.
• Medium sized dogs: Labradors or beagles belong in this category. Keeping them could cost you between 60 and 100 euros per month. These dogs often have a greater urge to exercise and need toys and accessories that are robust enough to withstand the demands.
• Large dogs: Think of breeds such as the Great Dane or the St Bernard. They can cost up to 200 euros a month. In addition to feeding, there are also storage costs for larger beds, more medical care and possible insurance costs.

Of course, expenses vary depending on where you live and the special needs of the dog, but the journey begins with a good, planned calculation.

Training and training costs: Why you shouldn't save money here

"A well-trained dog is a happy dog", they say. When talking about the cost of keeping a dog, training should not be neglected. While some owners succeed in training their puppy themselves, most resort to professional help.

Here is a short checklist of things to consider when making your decision:

• Basic training: Dog schools offer courses that can cost around 100-200 euros. These cover basic commands and socialisation.
• Advanced training: Whether agility, mantrailing or special behaviour training - these courses can cost between 200 and 500 euros or even more, depending on the intensity and duration of the course.
• Private trainer: Some situations require a customised approach. A private trainer often costs 30-100 euros per hour, depending on the trainer's experience and reputation.

Why is this important? A well-trained dog is not only less stressful in everyday situations, but also has a lower risk of getting into danger or causing harm.

Nutritional costs: the basis for a happy dog's life

Food is the largest item in the recurring costs. The quality of the food has a direct impact on the health and well-being of the four-legged friend. But what are the options?

• Dry food: An affordable and practical option. Depending on the brand, the monthly costs can be between 20 and 70 euros.
• Wet food: Often offers a higher moisture content, which can be particularly beneficial for dogs that don't drink much. Expect to pay around 40-100 euros per month.
• Barf (Raw feeding): This concept, which includes fresh meat, bones and vegetables, is becoming increasingly popular. The monthly budget here can quickly exceed 100-200 euros, depending on the origin and quality of the ingredients.

Choosing the right food will ensure that your dog gets the nutrients it needs and stays healthy in the long term. And don't forget to treat yourself to the occasional dog biscuit or chew to keep your dog's spirits high!

Other costs: What is often overlooked

Whilst training and nutrition are often the obvious costs, there are some other, less obvious expenses that creep into the cost of keeping a dog:

• Visits to the vet: Vaccinations, worming and regular health checks are a must. You can expect to pay between 100 and 500 euros per year, depending on the necessity and age of the dog.
• Liability insurance: A must in many regions, especially for larger breeds. Cost: 50-200 euros per year.
• Dog tax: These costs vary depending on where you live. They can be between 25 and 160 euros per year. You can avoid unpleasant surprises by researching your municipality in advance.
• Toys and accessories: Dogs are like children, which means that toys are essential. This can cost 50 to 300 euros a year.

Putting the cart before the horse? Certainly not! These extras are essential for a harmonious dog life.

In conclusion: an investment that pays off

Yes, the cost of keeping a dog is a costly endeavour - no question about it. But for many dog owners, the joy and companionship of their faithful pet outweighs any financial issues. So what do you get for your money? A loyal companion, daily walks in the fresh air and countless happy moments that don't come with a price tag.

Watch your budget and plan wisely. After all, it's nothing less than a friendship for life.

FAQs

How much does a dog cost me per month?

Anything from 15 to 300 euros per month is possible. A medium-sized dog needs around 50 to 100 euros a month for good quality food. Added to this are expenses for toys, visits to the vet and perhaps insurance. The varying costs depend heavily on the size of the dog and its specific needs.

How expensive is it to keep a dog?

The cost of keeping a dog can vary considerably. They include not only regular food costs, but also annual visits to the vet, any necessary training and insurance. For an overall financial overview, you should reckon with at least 600 euros per year, although this figure can rise sharply depending on the breed and individual situation.

How much does a dog cost with all the trimmings?

When getting a dog, you also need to think about one-off costs, such as the purchase or adoption fees, which can range from 200 to 1,500 euros. There are also costs for initial equipment such as leads, beds and bowls. All in all, taking all factors into account, you can expect a start-up budget of at least 1,000 to 2,000 euros for the first year.