How Much Does Dog Food Cost?
The cost of a dog is much more than the initial purchase price. Some of these costs include grooming, veterinarian, and day care services, as well the every days costs such as food.
How much is it?
- According to The Dog Food Project, dog food will cost $160-$250 per year for a moderately active mid-sized dog. The overall average price per year is $100-$300. This price largely depends on the size of the dog and the quality of the dog food. A large bag of store brand dry dog food for a medium sized dog will probably be on the lower side of $160 per year, while high quality gourmet dog food for a medium sized dog will cost about $200 per year. The high quality dog food may seem to be much more expensive initially; however, because of the high amount of nutrients, the serving size is smaller. Therefore, the higher quality of the food, the longer it will last.
- A wellness type of dog food that is recommended for dogs that are either on a diet or need a special blend formula can cost anywhere from $23 to $55 per bag. Common sizes for these bags include 15, 26 and 30 pounds.
- For example, a popular brand such as Newman’s Own Oragnics Formula that comes in a 12.5 pound bag retails for $22 to $31 per bag. An economy type bag such as the Pedigree Wholesome Recipe for Dogs retails for $12 to $23 per bag.
- Canned dog food that comes in sizes that range from 12 to 16 ounces, the price can range anywhere from $1 to $3 depending on the brand. A wellness diet blend is going to be more expensive than a brand such as Pedigree.
- Dog food that can only be prescribed by a veterinarian can range anywhere from $20 to $70 per bag or pack of 12 cans. This food is prescribed to dogs that have weight issues and diseases, and can only be purchased with a prescription.
What is going to be included?
- According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), doog food needs to contain certain percentages of certain vitamins and nutrients. Check your dog food label carefully to ensure your pet is getting exactly what he needs.
What are the extra costs?
- Some dogs need to be on a special diet for medical or allergy reasons. This type of food can be quite a bit more expensive, costing an average of $40 per bag instead of $30 per bag. This will translate to a cost of $200-$320.
- Most pet owners tend to put their dog food in a storage bin. This bins are ideal to preserve the freshness as well as have easy access to fill the dog’s bowl on a daily basis. Storage bins designed for dog food can start at $15.
Top brands to consider:
- Canidae
- Iams
- Nutro Dog Food
- Pedigree
- Science Diet
Tips to know:
- Each type of dog food is geared toward a specific age of a dog. Be sure to purchase a dog food that is geared toward your dog’s age. Adult dogs will need an adult blend while a puppy will need a puppy blend.
- If you dog has any type of allergies, you’ll want to make sure that the ingredients your dog is allergic to isn’t present in the food. The most common allergy is grains.
- The size of the dog will play a vital role since they will need more protein and calcium. Smaller dogs are going to need more carbohydrates.
How can I save money?
- There are many coupons readily available to the consumer. However, it is recommended that you choose a brand and stick with it; switching brands based on the current sales ads can harm your dog’s digestive system. It is best to be organized and stock up when the sales are good.
- One way to really save money on dog food is to control the dog’s portions. Most dog owners feed their dogs too much. Ask your vet what size portion is right for your dog, and stick to it!
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