How much does dog food cost per month?
How much does dog food cost per month?
$25 – $125 average cost per month (kibble)
$40 – $210 average cost per month (wet or special diet)
Dog food prices
Dog food costs $25 to $125 per month for dry kibble for a small- to medium-sized dog and up to $170 per month for a large dog. Canned wet foods and special dietary foods cost $40 to $210 per month on average, and fresh or freeze-dried options cost even more. Dog food prices vary based on the type, brand, and your dog's unique needs.
| Type of dog food | Average cost per day* | Average cost per month* |
|---|---|---|
| Dry / kibble | $0.80 – $4.00 | $25 – $125 |
| Wet / canned | $1.30 – $5.00 | $40 – $150 |
| Fresh | $2.60 – $7.00 | $78 – $314 |
| Air-dried | $4.00 – $10.50 | $120 – $300 |
| Freeze-dried | $5.00 – $12.00 | $150 – $360 |
| Special diets | $2.50 – $7.00 | $75 – $210 |
*For a small- to medium-sized dog
Dog food types
The following list explains the differences between dog food types:
Dry (kibble): Dry food is the most budget-friendly and lasts a long time, so bulk purchases can reduce the price further. Kibble is easy to store and widely available.
Wet (canned): Wet food offers higher moisture and palatability. It's ideal for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues.
Fresh: Fresh food companies often deliver their products via subscription, use human-grade ingredients, and tailor plans to your dog's needs.
Air-dried or freeze-dried: Raw air-dried and freeze-dried dog foods cost more than average but appeal to owners who want minimally processed, high-protein diets.
Specialty and prescription diets: Special formulas for allergies or medical needs can cost more than normal kibble, depending on the brand and ingredients.
Dog food cost by brand
There are many different brands that sell dog food in stores and online. Some brands, like Ollie, offer customizable subscriptions that mix fresh and dry food for balanced pricing.
| Brand or type | Small breed | Medium breed | Large breed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Pro Plan (dry) | $25 – $55 | $70 – $80 | $140 – $150 |
| Purina Pro Plan (wet) | $40 – $60 | $85 – $90 | $270 – $285 |
| Hill's Science Diet (dry) | $25 – $40 | $90 – $100 | $160 – $170 |
| Hill's Science Diet (wet) | $40 – $45 | $110 – $120 | $330 – $345 |
| Blue Buffalo (dry) | $20 – $30 | $70 – $125 | $155 – $160 |
| Blue Buffalo (wet) | $50 – $75 | $100 – $150 | $160 – $375 |
| Ollie (half fresh) | $65 – $80 | $165 – $180 | $175 – $255 |
| Ollie (fresh) | $105 – $150 | $220 – $240 | $300 – $330 |
| The Farmer's Dog cost (fresh) | $78 – $146 | $123 – $314 | $264 – $495 |
| Nom Nom (fresh) | $145 – $165 | $195 – $225 | $390 – $420 |
| Sundays for Dogs (air-dried) | $45 – $105 | $145 – $165 | $245 – $285 |
Dog food cost factors
Several factors can influence the cost of dog food, including:
Dog size: Larger dogs require more food, resulting in higher daily and monthly costs.
Age and activity level: Puppies and active dogs need more calories and specialized formulas, which can increase spending.
Health needs: Dogs with allergies or special dietary requirements may need prescription diets, which are more expensive.
Where you shop: Buying in bulk from Costco, Walmart, or online often lowers costs, while specialty pet stores may be pricier.
Ingredient quality: Foods with real meat, organic, or limited ingredients generally cost more.
Mixing wet & dry: Many dog owners feed their dogs mostly kibble but incorporate wet or fresh foods into their meals regularly.
Dog treats
On average, owners spend between $10 and $30+ per month on dog treats, though those who buy premium or specialty treats may spend more. Dog treats are a recurring expense for most pet owners, with costs influenced by treat quality, brand, and how frequently you reward your dog.
Subscription treat boxes, homemade treats, and bulk purchases can also affect your monthly costs.
| Treat type | Average cost per month |
|---|---|
| Standard store-bought | $10 – $30 |
| Premium / specialty | $20 – $50 |
| Subscription boxes | $20 – $72 |
| Homemade treats | $8 – $30 |
How much food should I feed my dog?
Your dog's size, weight, and age can influence their appetite, but most dogs eat the following amounts per day:
Small (3 to 12 pounds): 1 can of wet food or 1/3 to 1 cup of kibble
Medium (13 to 50 pounds): 2 cans or 1 to 2 2/3 cups of kibble
Large (50 to 100 pounds): 3 to 5 cans or 2 2/3 to 4 1/2 cups of kibble
Extra-large (over 100 pounds): 5+ cans or 4 1/2 cups plus 1/4 cup for every additional 10 pounds
Homemade dog food
If you prepare homemade food, you may spend an extra $30 to $80 per month for smaller dogs or $120 to $170 per month for medium to large dogs. Bulk buying, seasonal shopping, and using homegrown or sale items can reduce expenses.
Homemade dog food allows you to control ingredients and quality, but costs can vary based on recipes and sourcing. Using fresh meats, vegetables, and supplements may cost more than premium kibble but may improve your dog's health.
Always consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your homemade meals are balanced and meet all your pup's nutritional needs.
Tips for finding low cost dog food
If you want to provide your furry friend with quality nutrition without overspending, check out the following tips:
Buy in bulk or from warehouse retailers.
Use online subscriptions for discounts and free shipping.
Take advantage of coupons, loyalty programs, and sales.
Choose quality kibble for a balance of nutrition and affordability.
Consult your vet before buying specialty diets.
Dog food FAQs
What foods can dogs not eat?
The following foods are toxic to dogs or cause digestive upset, and you should never offer them or leave them for your furry friend to accidentally eat:
Chocolate
Xylitol
Milk or ice cream
Dough or yeast
Fatty foods
Garlic, onions, chives, or leeks
Some mushrooms
Some unsafe nuts like macadamia nuts
Raw meat, fish, or eggs
Spicy foods
Avocado, citrus, grapes, rhubarb, and star fruit
Green tomatoes & raw potatoes
Alcohol & tobacco
Raw bones
Caffeine & soda
Sugar and spices like nutmeg
For a more in-depth guide, read our article on what dogs can't eat.
What human foods can dogs eat?
Dogs can eat lots of human foods, including fruits, veggies, and cooked meats. For a full list, check out our guide on what dogs can eat safely. Some safe fruits for dogs are apples, bananas, berries, mangoes, and melons. Just make sure you remove all seeds and pits.
A few safe veggies for dogs are bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, celery, and peas. You can also feed lean, skinless meats like chicken, beef, pork, turkey, fish, and eggs. Dogs can eat plain grain products as an occasional treat, and some dogs can eat plain dairy products in moderation.
What is the best dog food?
The best dog food is one that meets your dog's nutritional needs and matches their age, size, and health conditions. Brands like Blue Buffalo, Iams, Pedigree, and Purina are affordable and easy to find. Premium brands like Orijen, Taste of the Wild, and JustFoodForDogs cost more but consistently receive high ratings for ingredient quality.
Consult your veterinarian to choose the ideal formula for your pet, whether it's premium kibble, fresh, or prescription food. Every dog is unique, so the best choice is the one that keeps your dog healthy, energetic, and happy.
Can dogs eat spicy food?
Dogs should not eat spicy food. Spicy ingredients can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for dogs. Some spices, like garlic and onion, are toxic and can lead to serious health issues. To keep your dog healthy and comfortable, avoid giving them any spicy foods.
Can you buy dog food with food stamps or EBT?
No, you can't buy dog food with food stamps or SNAP (EBT) benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture classifies pet food as a non-food item, so SNAP can only be used for groceries meant for human consumption.
However, if you receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits through your EBT card, you may be able to withdraw cash to purchase pet food. For those in need, local pet food pantries, animal shelters, and community organizations may offer free or low-cost pet food.
Choosing a dog food brand or subscription
When choosing a dog food brand or subscription, focus on quality, safety, and your dog's unique needs. Consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog's diet, and follow these tips to choose the best option:
Check for AAFCO nutritional adequacy: Ensure the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.
Review the ingredients: Look for real meat, fish, or quality protein sources as the first ingredients; avoid fillers and artificial additives.
Consider personalization: Choose brands or subscriptions that tailor meals to your dog's age, breed, size, and health needs.
Evaluate transparency: Select companies that clearly disclose ingredient sourcing and nutritional information.
Assess convenience: Subscription services should offer flexible delivery, pre-portioned meals, and easy account management.
Look for freshness: Fresh or minimally processed foods retain more nutritional value.
Read customer reviews: Research feedback on quality, taste, and customer service.
Questions to ask your vet
If you're having trouble choosing or switching dog food for your pup, ask your vet these questions:
What type of diet is best for my dog's age, breed, and activity level?
Does my dog have any allergies or sensitivities I should consider?
How can I tell if a food meets my dog's nutritional requirements?
Should I choose a specific brand or formula for my dog's health needs?
How much and how often should I feed my dog?
Are there any ingredients I should avoid for my dog?
Do you recommend dry, wet, fresh, or another type of food for my dog?
How do I safely transition my dog to a new food?
Should I add supplements or is the chosen food complete?
How can I monitor if the new diet is working well for my dog?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.