The Cost of Pet Ownership Is About To Go Up...

Owning a Pet Is About To Get More Expensive…

Owning a dog is a joy-filled adventure, but it's also a financial commitment that can make even the most devoted pet parents do a double take. According to USA Today, Sara Amato, who never expected to be a dog owner but now spends over $8,600 a year on Finn, her allergy-prone, high-maintenance cattle dog mix. Between his specialized food, insurance, training, and grooming, Finn’s expenses rival a used car payment—except the car sheds, chews on furniture, and insists on sleeping on a Pottery Barn kids' couch. And while Finn's costs may seem extreme, the reality is that pet ownership isn't cheap for anyone, and it’s about to get even pricier.

According to Rover’s latest “True Cost of Pet Parenthood Report,” the cost of owning a dog in 2025 is estimated to be anywhere from $1,390 to $5,295 per year, depending on factors like breed, size, and health. Puppies, with their adorable yet wallet-draining needs, can cost between $1,520 and $6,415 annually. And just when pet owners thought their budgets were stretched enough, Rover predicts dog-related expenses will rise by 7% this year, while cat parents will see a 10% increase. Inflation, tariffs on pet goods, and the ever-growing pet care industry mean that pet parents are forking over more money than ever to keep their furry companions happy, healthy, and well-fed.

Here’s a breakdown of where pet parents will feel the pinch the most:

Projected Cost Increases for Dog Owners in 2025

1. Veterinary Care: +11% 🏥

   • Routine check-ups, vaccines, and emergency visits are getting pricier due to increased demand for veterinary services and a shortage of veterinarians.

   • Medication prices are also rising, particularly for prescription flea/tick preventatives and chronic condition treatments.

2. Pet Food & Treats: +85% for treats, +10-20% for food 🍖

   • Higher production costs, ingredient shortages, and supply chain issues are making premium and prescription diets more expensive.

   • Natural and specialty treats (grain-free, organic, single-ingredient) have seen some of the biggest price hikes.

3. Pet Grooming Supplies: +20% ✂️

   • Shampoos, brushes, and grooming tools have gone up in price due to raw material and labor costs.

   • Professional grooming services are also more expensive due to wage increases for pet groomers.

4. Pet Cleaning Supplies: +183% 🧼

   • Pet-safe cleaners, stain removers, and waste disposal products are among the fastest-growing cost categories, partially due to new environmental regulations and increased production costs.

5. Dog Training & Daycare: +10-15% 🎾

   • With demand for dog trainers and pet care services growing, hourly rates for professional trainers and dog daycare services have gone up.

6. Insurance & Medical Expenses: +5-10% 🩺

   • Pet insurance premiums are rising due to increased vet costs and more claims being filed.

Beyond the yearly expenses, the lifetime cost of owning a dog is enough to make you reconsider your retirement plans. On average, a dog’s care over a 10-year lifespan totals about $34,550—though any pet owner with a penchant for splurging on gourmet treats and orthopedic dog beds knows that number can go much higher. Meanwhile, veterinary fees are expected to increase by 11%, grooming supplies by 20%, and pet cleaning supplies by a staggering 183%. And if you think cutting back on treats might save some cash, think again—those costs are projected to rise by 85%, which means even basic puppy indulgences will come with a hefty price tag.

Why Are Dog Ownership Costs Rising?

• Inflation & Supply Chain Issues 📈 – The same inflation affecting groceries and gas is also increasing the cost of pet food, medical supplies, and grooming products.

• Veterinarian Shortage 🏥 – Fewer vets mean longer wait times and higher costs for appointments, with some clinics raising prices to keep up with demand.

• Tariffs on Imported Pet Products 🌍 – Proposed tariffs on goods from China and other countries will drive up costs for dog toys, food, and even medical supplies.

• Higher Demand for Premium Pet Products 🐕 – More pet parents are opting for high-quality, specialty products, which are naturally more expensive.

Despite the rising costs, pet parents remain devoted to their four-legged family members, often prioritizing their needs over their own. Nearly 70% of pet owners say food and treats take up most of their pet budget, while a third admit they’ve cut back on personal spending—like dining out or buying new clothes—to ensure their pets have everything they need. And when times get tough, only 34% say pet expenses would be one of the first things they’d cut. Clearly, the days of pets being "just animals" are long gone. They're now full-fledged family members, complete with medical plans, personalized furniture, and in some cases, a spot in their owner's will.

What Can Pet Parents Do?

• Buy in Bulk – Stock up on food, treats, and supplies before prices rise even further.

• Consider Pet Insurance – It’s getting more expensive, but could save thousands in the long run.

• Look for Discounts & Subscriptions – Many pet stores and brands offer discounts on auto-ship orders.

• DIY Where Possible – Grooming, training, and even cooking some of your dog's meals can help cut costs.

While the cost of bringing a new pet home has actually dropped—adopting a dog now ranges from $1,150 to $4,420, a 19% decrease from last year—the ongoing expenses are what really add up. Still, for pet parents like Amato, no price is too high when it comes to their beloved companions. Whether it’s allergy treatments, steak dinners, or sheep-herding assessments, she knows Finn is worth every penny. And as the pet industry continues to boom, with spending projected to hit $207 billion by 2030, one thing is clear: pet ownership may be expensive, but for millions of devoted owners, it's a price they’re more than willing to pay.

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