Average Annual Dog Expenses: What to Budget

Food is a recurring cost, and the amount you spend depends in part on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Annual veterinary visits, vaccines or tests recommended by your veterinarian, parasite prevention, replacement toys, and basics such as waste bags are easier to manage when you plan for them throughout the year rather than waiting for each bill.

A dog that needs regular professional grooming may cost more to care for than one whose coat you can maintain at home, while boarding, dog walking, and training depend on your schedule and your dog’s needs. Puppies and newly adopted dogs can also bring one-time setup expenses, so we would keep those separate from your estimate of an average ongoing year.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating which costs can change your budget most.

Our team recommends listing your expected monthly purchases, adding predictable annual bills, and setting aside a separate amount for unexpected care; dividing the annual total by 12 gives you a useful monthly savings target. For a broader way to think through pet expenses, see our guide to the real cost of owning a pet and our Pet Costs of Owning Your Furry (or Feathered) Friend eBook guide.