Step 1: List every pet cost
Split them into three groups:
- Monthly: food, treats, litter, insurance, preventatives if billed monthly
- Yearly: checkups, vaccines, license, dental cleaning, boarding for trips
- Surprises: illness, injury, emergency visits
Step 2: Turn yearly costs into a monthly amount
Add up your yearly costs and divide by 12. If checkups, vaccines and boarding come to $600 a year, set aside $50 a month. When the bill comes, the money is already there.
Step 3: Build a pet emergency fund
Aim for a cushion that could cover a common emergency visit, often $500 to $2,500. Start small, even $25 a month, and keep it in a separate savings account. See our pet emergency fund guide.
Step 4: Track what you actually spend
For two or three months, write down every pet purchase. Most people find they spend more on treats, toys and extras than they think. A simple pet expense tracker makes it quick.
A sample monthly pet budget (medium dog)
- Food and treats: $110
- Insurance: $65
- Toys and supplies: $25
- Yearly costs set aside (vet, preventatives, boarding): $75
- Emergency fund: $30
- Total: about $305 a month
Plug in your own numbers with our pet cost calculator.
Know exactly what your pet costs.
Our pet expense tracker adds up food, vet bills and supplies for you, month by month. Instant download.
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Open the calculatorQuestions people ask
How much should I budget for a dog each month?
Many owners budget roughly $150 to $300 a month for a medium dog, including food, insurance, preventatives, supplies and savings for yearly and surprise costs.
How much should I save for pet emergencies?
A good first goal is $500 to $1,000, then build toward $2,000 or more, since emergency visits commonly cost $300 to $2,500.
What pet costs do people forget?
Dental cleanings, boarding or pet sitting when traveling, replacing worn-out supplies, and higher vet costs as pets age.
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Pin it to your pet board so it's there when you need it.
The Paw Plan shares general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different, so check with your vet about your pet's health, diet and care.
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Read the guide →How much does it cost to own a dog?
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Read the guide →How much does a cat cost per year?
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Read the guide →One easy pet-care tip a week.
Short, practical and friendly. Join free and get our printable pet emergency contact card right away.
