The Cost of Owning a Dog in the UK in 2025

Bringing a dog into your life is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. But beyond the love and loyalty, owning a dog also comes with ongoing financial responsibility. In the UK, the cost of living has been rising steadily, and pet ownership is no exception. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your furry friend in 2025.

Initial Costs: Bringing a Dog Home

Before you even start with day-to-day expenses, there are upfront costs to consider.

Adoption fees: £150–£300 when adopting from a rescue charity such as Dogs Trust or Battersea.
Pedigree puppies: £800–£2,500 depending on breed (with French Bulldogs and Dachshunds often costing the most).
Basic supplies: A bed, crate, lead, food bowls, and starter food can add another £150–£250.

💡 Tip: Adoption is often cheaper upfront and supports dog welfare.

Monthly Essentials

On average, UK dog owners spend £100–£180 per month on essentials.

Food: £40–£70 depending on breed size and diet (premium grain-free diets cost more).
Insurance: £25–£60 depending on coverage. Popular providers include Petplan, ManyPets, and Bought By Many.
Flea, tick & worming treatments: £10–£20.
Routine vet care: Annual check-ups can be spread out monthly at £15–£25 via pet health plans.

Grooming and Extras

Some breeds are low-maintenance, while others—like Poodles, Cockapoos, or Shih Tzus—require regular grooming.

Professional grooming: £35–£60 per session (needed every 6–8 weeks for high-maintenance coats).
Accessories & toys: £20–£40 per month if you’re buying chews, toys, and treats.
Training classes: £50–£120 for a 6-week puppy course.

Luxury add-ons are booming in the UK: dog spas, personalised accessories (like Pawture.uk), and even doggy daycare services can add hundreds more to monthly costs.

Unexpected Expenses

Even the best-prepared owners face surprises:

Emergency vet bills: Surgery or specialist care can run from £1,000–£5,000.
Travel kennels or sitters: £20–£40 per day if you go on holiday without your pet.
Behavioural training: £50–£100 per session for issues like separation anxiety.

Annual Cost Breakdown

Here’s what the average dog in the UK costs per year in 2025:

Small breeds: £1,200–£1,800
Medium breeds: £1,500–£2,200
Large breeds: £1,800–£2,800

Over a typical dog’s lifetime (10–14 years), that’s £18,000–£35,000+.

How to Save Money Without Compromising Care

Compare pet insurance policies—coverage varies widely.
Buy food in bulk or subscribe for discounts.
Groom at home between professional sessions.
Adopt instead of shopping for a pedigree puppy.

Final Thoughts

Dogs bring endless joy, but they also require consistent financial commitment. Whether you’re budgeting for food, vet bills, or the occasional treat, planning ahead ensures you can give your dog the life they deserve.

🐾 Before bringing a pup home, ask yourself: can I afford not just the love, but the lifetime cost?