New research from MoneySuperMarket has revealed that more than three-quarters (76%) of dog owners have seen an increase in maintenance costs for their four-legged friends. Two-thirds (66%) of UK dog owners now spend up to £480 more on their furry friends each year.
Pet owners say they expected average monthly costs for their dogs to stand at £157, which explains why 40% are shocked at actual costs. Average monthly spend on pooches now stands at £348, more than double the anticipated amount.
Dog food and treats are the monthly expenses that have the biggest impact on wallets, with the average owner purchasing £68 worth of food for their pup. Coming in second place are vet bills and treatments, which average £67 each month. In some extreme situations, as many as one in 20 (5%) are worried they’ll have to give up their dog because they cannot afford the monthly expenses.
