Adopt a dog for Christmas? Dog expert creates an affordability calculator to see if you can afford a dog

Dog experts Kennel Store have created a Dog Affordability Calculator, allowing prospective dog owners to see if a dog is really the right financial decision for them, and provided tips on how to save money when owning a dog.

“The UK is a nation of dog lovers, with around 12 million households having dogs as pets. But being able to afford man's best friend is dependent on many factors, and knowing exactly how much it will cost per month can be overwhelming.

We have created a Dog Affordability Calculator to help prospective dog owners understand the cost of dog ownership, and the calculator will help you know how many dogs you can afford based on the following:

Your monthly wage

Your monthly rent/mortgage payments

Bills/living costs

Socialising

Doggy daycare costs

It then generates your affordability result, giving you a clear indication as to whether you’re in a position to afford a dog and all of the additional costs you can incur with dog ownership.

How to save money when owning a dog

Food and Treats

Buy in bulk:

Buying dog food and treats in larger quantities can often result in savings as they are typically cheaper per gram than buying smaller bags or cans of dog food.

Cook homemade dog food:

This can be healthier and more cost-effective than supermarket options, especially if you use leftovers.

Consider own-brand options:

Own brands are often as good as higher-priced options and still offer the nutrients your dog needs.

Make your own treats:

There are lots of healthy, homemade treat recipes that you can DIY at home that are still nutritionally beneficial for your dog and easy to make.

Healthcare

Pet insurance:

While it may seem like an added expense, pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills and help with paying for major surgeries if this is required. One in three pets will need emergency medical treatment in their lifetime, so being covered is incredibly important.

Preventative care:

Keep on top of your pet's health with regular check-ups, vaccinations, and dental appointments can help prevent costly health problems in the long run.

Grooming

​Groom your dog yourself:

With a little practice, you can learn to groom your dog at home, saving money on professional grooming. Shampooing and general clipping can be jobs that can be completed at home and don’t always need to be done professionally, but always be careful.

Miscellaneous

Adopt, don't shop:

Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue is often much more affordable than buying a puppy from a breeder, and more ethical.

Shop around:

Compare prices at different pet shops and online retailers to find the best deals on collars, leads, and other essentials to save money.

Owning a dog is an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience but ensuring you are financially able to look after them is an important factor to consider to ensure you can provide them with a good life and it is a good financial decision for you and your household.”