A dog is not just a pet but a lifelong companion—every dog parent will second that.
Your four-legged, fluffy-haired friend spoils you with unconditional love and loyalty. Its wagging tail and joyful barks are a constant reminder of the special bond you share.
As a dog parent, you naturally want to give them the best of everything. You’d want to spoil them with new toys, pup cups, and, of course, the best food.
While everything else is more or less a one-time expense, food is a recurring one. Dog food, especially high-quality ones, comes at a premium.
Dog parents, a survey finds, spent $354, on average, on dog food in 2022. That can put a dent in your wallet if you’re committed to providing your Rover with the best nutrition possible.
How do you ensure your pup gets the nutrition they need without draining your savings? You’re not out of luck.
There are several practical, cost-effective strategies that can help you keep your Fido healthy and happy while keeping your budget in check. Let’s explore some of them here.
#1 Shop Around
Don’t settle for the first price you see. Visit multiple shops or stores. Different retailers offer varying prices for the same brand and type of dog food. Compare the prices to see who offers the best deals.
Take advantage of cashback. According to Money Saving Expert, you can get big discounts or sometimes free products using Shopmium.
All you have to do is upload a picture of your receipt and scan the product barcode. The cashback amount will be credited to your account automatically.
#2 Opt for Reliable Brands
Spending on reliable brands means you get value for your money. Most of the time, these dog food brands offer high-quality ingredients. You can rest assured that your money is well-spent.
In 2023, 1 in 6 pet parents switched to less expensive pet food brands due to rising prices.
Before you make the switch, however, take a minute to compare labels. Check the ingredients and make sure they’re similar to the premium brands.
Open Farm advises pet parents to check whether the food they choose is complete and balanced and meets the minimal nutritional requirements established by AAFCO. That way, you will know your furry friend is getting all the nutrition it needs to grow and stay healthy.
#3 Buy in Bulk
The next time you shop for your Fido’s favorite food—be it wet or dry—buy in bulk. It might seem like a hassle, but it will save you quite a bit in the long run, says Lucy Sherriff.
Before you start stocking your cart, check the price per pound or ounce to make sure you’re really getting a deal.
Bigger bags are often cheaper, but not always, so it’s worth comparing. If you choose them, make sure you also purchase airtight containers to keep the food fresh. Your Fido’s food can go stale or even spoil if it sits open for too long.
Check the expiration date, as well. It’s tempting to go all-in on a deal. But if you buy more than your Rover can eat before it goes bad, you’re throwing money away instead of saving it.
If you’re switching to a new food or brand, try a smaller bag first to make sure your fur baby likes it. There’s no point in buying 50 pounds of something your canine companion won’t eat.
#4 Make the Most of Deals and Discounts
Why pay full price for your Rover’s food when you can steal a deal?
There are a number of online retailers and pet stores that offer discounts and often run promotions, especially around holidays. Shop for your furry friend’s food during these periods. You will save money and potentially get more value for your purchase.
Sign up for their newsletters or loyalty programs. You will get the inside scoop on upcoming sales or special offers.
Most brands send out coupons to loyal customers via email. You never know, you can be lucky enough to get discounts directly in your inbox if you subscribe.
Also, follow your favorite brands on social media. Many announce flash sales or exclusive deals there.
Another trick is to set up auto-ship orders. Not only will you get your dog food delivered right to your door, but many times, they’ll also give you a discount for subscribing to regular shipments.
Feeding your four-legged friend quality and nutritious food doesn’t mean you must shell out big bucks. A bit of planning and savvy shopping can help you cut costs without cutting corners on quality.
Many pet parents whip up a homemade meal using affordable ingredients like rice, chicken, sweet potatoes, and green beans. This is cost-effective, no doubt, but refrain from it. These meals are not nutritionally balanced.
Try mixing dry food with wet food if you want to add variety without breaking the bank. This approach can help stretch your budget while still providing a balanced diet.
In sum, giving your Rover a healthy, balanced diet will keep its tail wagging and your budget intact.