The cost of keeping a dog in Dubai

Keeping dogs in Dubai, a city known for its high standards of living, strict regulations, and unique climate, can be both challenging and rewarding. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the various daily costs associated with keeping a dog in Dubai.

Initial Costs of Keeping a Dog

Before delving into daily expenses, it’s essential to consider the initial costs necessary for dog ownership. These costs include:

Purchasing a Dog: Depending on the breed and age of the dog, the purchase cost can range between AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 or more. Rare breeds and purebred dogs are typically more expensive.
Vaccinations: Initial vaccinations are essential and cost around AED 500 to AED 1,000. These vaccinations include those preventing deadly diseases such as distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis.
Microchipping: Installing a microchip for dog identification costs around AED 250 to AED 500. These microchips help owners locate their pets if they go missing.
Dog License: The annual dog license in Dubai costs approximately AED 200 to AED 500. These licenses are issued by the Dubai Municipality, and keeping a dog without a license is illegal.

Daily Costs of Keeping a Dog

Daily expenses for dog ownership include food, hygiene, entertainment, exercise, and medical care. Below is a detailed breakdown of these costs:

Food

Feeding dogs varies based on breed, size, and age. Daily food costs can range between AED 10 to AED 50. Choosing the right food for your dog is crucial. Dry food is generally cheaper, while wet and specialty foods are more expensive. Organic and homemade foods might also cost more but offer better quality.

Hygiene and Grooming

Hygiene and grooming are particularly important in Dubai due to the hot and humid climate. The associated costs include:

Bathing and Grooming: Monthly bathing and grooming services for dogs cost around AED 100 to AED 300, making the daily cost approximately AED 3 to AED 10. Some professional centers offer additional services such as pet grooming and washing, which can increase the cost.
Brushing Teeth: The cost of toothpaste and a toothbrush for dogs is about AED 50 to AED 100, which can last for several months, making the daily cost minimal. Regular tooth brushing prevents dental problems and ensures oral health.

You can visit Miss Meow for pet grooming services in Dubai.

Entertainment and Exercise

Dogs need exercise and entertainment to stay healthy and happy. The associated costs include:
Toys: Purchasing various toys for dogs costs around AED 50 to AED 200, which can be used for several months. The daily cost is approximately AED 1 to AED 5. Toys are essential for mental and physical stimulation.
Dog Parks: Some dog parks in Dubai charge an entry fee of around AED 20 to AED 50 per visit. If visited daily, this can be a significant cost. Additionally, some parks have extra facilities like swimming pools and play areas, which may incur additional charges.

Medical Care

Medical care is another essential aspect of dog ownership. Regular expenses include:

Periodic Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups cost around AED 200 to AED 500 per visit, conducted monthly or quarterly. Thus, the daily cost is approximately AED 3 to AED 16. Regular vet check-ups help identify and prevent diseases.
Medications and Vaccinations: Periodic medications and vaccinations have varying costs. Additionally, regular use of preventive medicines for parasites and ticks incurs extra costs.

Additional Costs

Unexpected costs such as sudden illnesses, injuries, and surgeries can significantly increase dog ownership expenses. For instance, complex surgeries can cost thousands of dirhams. Pet insurance can help mitigate these costs but also has a monthly or annual premium.

Comparison with Other Cities
The cost of keeping a dog in Dubai may be higher compared to other major cities worldwide. This is due to the high standard of living, quality services, and strict regulations. For example, similar costs exist in European cities like London or Paris, but in some Asian or African cities, the expenses might be lower. Comparing costs can help owners plan better for their pet’s upkeep.
Owning a dog in Dubai involves significant expenses, including costs for food, hygiene, entertainment, and medical care. With proper planning and awareness of these various costs, you can provide a rewarding and healthy experience for both yourself and your dog.
For comprehensive pet care services, including grooming and veterinary care, missmeow.ae offers exceptional services to ensure your pets receive the best possible care, allowing you to enjoy a delightful and hassle-free experience with your pets in Dubai.

The cost of keeping a dog in Dubai