A dog is an amazing companion that gives so much more than they cost. But, if times are tight and you’re struggling to afford your furry friend, there are things you can do to lower the cost of owning a dog.
As a dog lover myself, I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to consider giving up my little friend because I can no longer afford them.
So let’s prevent that if we possibly can.
I’m going to share some practical ways to lower the cost of owning a dog without impacting their health, well being and the joy they bring.
I hope the following tips can help!
DIY doggy delights
Making your own dog treats at home is a great way to save money but also improve nutrition within treats.
We all know that treats have very little nutritional value, so this is your chance to save money while also improving the quality of the treat you give.
Don’t forget your local butcher and fishmonger. You may be able to get scraps or bones for free or cheap. Prepare them properly before feeding to your dog and they will love you for it!
There are tons of easy recipes online using simple ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and pumpkin.
Your pup will love the homemade goodness, and your wallet will thank you.
Bulk buying basics
Consider purchasing pet supplies in bulk to lower the cost of owning a dog.
This is especially true for items like dog food, which can be bought in larger quantities at a lower per-unit cost. Compare prices online to save a little extra and you may even get it delivered too!
You can bulk buy kibble, tins, raw meat or whatever you feed your dog. Just make sure to store it properly to keep it fresh and tasty for your furry friend.
If you’re really stuck, consider visiting a pet food bank. Most areas have them. The RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Blue Cross websites will have details.
Use loyalty schemes
Some pet shops use loyalty schemes to help retain custom. If your local store offers it, use it. If you use national chains, use theirs too.
For example, the Pets at Home’s VIP Club offers small discounts on items, but every little helps!
Groom at home
Skip the pricey grooming salon and invest in some grooming tools to lower the cost of owning a dog.
A groomer does great work but they aren’t cheap. As long as you take over grooming duties and can keep up with the demands of the breed, it’s an easy win.
Regular brushing and basic grooming at home can keep your pup looking sharp without the hefty price tag. Plus, it’s a great bonding experience!
Health check hustle
Prevention is key to avoiding expensive vet bills. Stay up to date on vaccinations, keep up with dental hygiene, and maintain a healthy diet.
Exercise your dog regularly and feed them the highest quality food you can afford.
All can help maintain your dog’s health and prevent them needing too many visits to the vet.
Get thrifty with toys
Dogs don’t need fancy toys. They don’t care if it’s a brand name or a supermarket special. All they care about is how much fun it is to play with and whether you play with it with them.
Sometimes it’s worth spending a little more on a higher quality toy as it can last longer.
Most of the time it’s not.
Hit up your local charity or discount shops for budget-friendly toy options.
Go to car boot sales and look for used soft toys and plastic toys that would be safe to chew. You’d be surprised at how much you could save!
Exercise on a budget
Who needs an expensive doggy gym when you’ve got parks and walks? I didn’t even know dog exercise classes were a thing until a friend told me they used one.
And the price they charged, wow!
I’m not talking about CaniX or similar where it’s as much about socialisation for the human as well as dog. I’m talking about dedicated paid exercise areas.
You don’t need them.
Take your pup for regular walks, explore local trails, set up a playdate with other dog owners or chase them around the garden.
It’s great exercise for both of you and also helps lower the cost of owning a dog!
Insurance wisdom
While pet insurance may seem like an added expense, it can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected vet bills.
The British vet system is now like American healthcare, where prices are driven up because insurance covers it.
Even a modest treatment is now out of reach of many, thanks to prices driven by greed and by insurance.
It’s a sorry state of affairs but it is what it is.
Shop around for the best insurance rates and coverage to find a plan that suits your budget and keeps your pup protected.
Use the same tricks to find cheap dog insurance as you use to find cheap car insurance and you won’t go far wrong.
Community collaboration
Finally, why not join or create a network of fellow dog owners in your community? You can swap pet-sitting duties, share bulk purchases, or even organise group exercise sessions.
It’s a win-win for your social life and can help lower the cost of owning a dog.
Remember, being a responsible dog owner doesn’t mean breaking the bank. With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can keep tails wagging without emptying your pockets. Here’s to happy pups and happy wallets!
