Feeding a dog can be expensive, but it’s also an essential part of your pet’s health. If you’re smart about your purchases, you can save money and still provide a healthy diet for your dog.
Start by asking your vet for cheaper food options. He or she may be able to offer samples or coupons.
Shop Around
Pet parents who shop around are more likely to find a great deal on dog food. Some retailers will price match online or in-store, so be sure to check before you buy. Many stores also offer a loyalty program that pays you back every time you make a purchase, and some even allow you to use coupons and rewards with your pet food purchases.
If you’re shopping in-store, check out the sales fliers at different retailers and compare prices before making a decision. Most retail chains release their fliers on Sunday and will often run deals throughout the week. Buying in bulk is also cheaper than purchasing smaller bags. Most warehouse clubs carry large-size bags of pet foods for less per pound.
Some food brands offer subscription delivery options, which can save you money. Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program, for example, can yield savings of 20% or more on select products.
Lastly, some manufacturers will send out coupon codes inside their bag of food. These are great because they generally don’t expire for a long time and can be used at most pet stores that sell the brand. You can also find coupons on the manufacturer’s website or through third-party apps like Ibotta.
Alternatively, some budget-friendly pet food brands make their own fresh recipes that you can cook at home. These foods are typically minimally processed and feature whole gently cooked ingredients. They may be preservative-free and require special storage instructions, but they’re usually cheaper than purchasing packaged foods from a store. Plus, you can create your own customized meal based on your pet’s specific needs and preferences. However, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet. To save on these fresh pet food options, look for discounts and deals offered by brands and consider using a PETstock promo code when making your purchase.
Look for Sales
In addition to price shopping at multiple stores and online, look for sales. Many dog food brands and pet store chains offer coupons and discounts through social media, like Facebook. Check out your favorite store and brand’s page to find these deals and sign up for email notifications so you know when they have a sale or offer a coupon you can use.
When you see your favorite budget dog food brand on sale, stock up. Just make sure you purchase only what you can consume within 6 months, and keep it in an airtight container to avoid spoiling. Most online retailers will let you subscribe to their newsletters or e-mail notifications, which will help you stay on top of what’s going on at the store. Some even offer price match if you find the same food at a lower price elsewhere.
Don’t discount small local or regional pet food companies, either. Some of them may even have more affordable foods, and their products might be more nutritious than you think. For example, meat byproducts, such as bone and organs, can actually be more nutrient dense than muscle meats.
If you’re considering switching to a new dog food, introduce it slowly to your dog by mixing it with a smaller amount of his current food. This helps him adjust to the taste and texture of the new food and minimizes his upset stomach.
Consider signing up for a subscription service that delivers your favorite dog food directly to your home. Most of these services will not only save you time, but they will also often have special discounted prices or reward points for frequent buyers.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is one of the most financially savvy shopping choices you can make when it comes to pet food. When you buy kibble in bulk, the cost per pound drops significantly. But there are a few things to consider before making the decision to purchase in bulk.
For one, bulk dog food typically requires a large upfront investment that might be difficult for some pet owners to afford. In addition, you’ll need to have adequate storage space to accommodate such a large amount of pet food. If you don’t, the kibble may go bad before you can use it.
Another drawback to buying in bulk is that it’s sometimes hard to know how your pet will react to a new diet. If your pup doesn’t respond well to a new food, it’s often best to start with a smaller bag to avoid wasting money. Veterinarians and pet stores might offer free samples for a new dog food, but these are usually only small bags.
If you’re purchasing a dog food online, check out the shipping costs before you finalize your order. Some retailers add a flat rate for shipping, while others charge based on the size of your order. It’s also important to factor in any potential returns when purchasing bulk pet food, as this can add up quickly.
As with any product, it’s important to calculate your average dog food consumption before buying in bulk. If you overbuy, the food could go bad before your pet can eat it, and this can lead to a variety of health problems like diarrhea, indigestion, and vomiting. By following these expert tips, you can save money on dog food without compromising quality. Additionally, consider using a PETstock promo code when purchasing pet food to enjoy discounts and special offers on your pet’s favorite brands.
Look for Coupons
A healthy diet is essential for dogs, but pet food can be expensive. Thankfully, smart strategies for shopping for dog food and other pet supplies can help keep your wallet happy without compromising your dog’s nutrition.
One of the best ways to save on dog food is to look for coupons. Many pet stores offer loyalty programs, which usually include exclusive offers and coupons for their customers. You can also sign up for a brand’s newsletter to get coupons and other promotions in your inbox. Many online retailers also have coupon sections where you can find a range of discounts for their products.
Many pet food brands also offer subscription services that deliver fresh, preservative-free meals directly to your doorstep. These foods are more expensive than conventional dry dog foods, but they’re often less processed and contain whole gently cooked ingredients that are easier on your pet’s digestive tract.
If you’re buying a premium brand of dog food, look for coupons and sales to cut the price even more. You should also look for discounts on pet medications, which can add up quickly if you have to give your pupper monthly flea and tick treatments or other health care needs.
Another way to save on dog food is to buy in bulk from a large retailer like Amazon. The site invites 3rd party sellers to sell their goods, including pet foods, and you can sometimes find great deals if you’re patient enough to search for them. Just make sure you check the seller’s feedback rating and read reviews before you buy. Also, make sure you do the math when shopping for bulk items, as shipping costs can add up.
Use a Credit Card
While premium dog foods are increasingly popular, it’s still possible to feed your pet a nutritious diet without exploding your budget. You can save money by shopping around, using coupons and getting bulk discounts. If your pet has special dietary needs, talk to a vet or nutritionist to find out if you can make the food at home or use a cheaper alternative.
If you’re considering switching to a raw diet, talk to your veterinarian first. It’s important that you get a professional opinion before making this switch because it may cause health problems for your dog.
Many pet retailers offer coupons and deals through their websites, mobile apps or in store. For example, Chewy and Petco both have a variety of online coupons you can use to save on food and other supplies. Additionally, many brands offer rebates on their products. These are typically partial refunds that you can claim online after submitting a receipt. You can even earn additional cash-back or Ultimate Rewards points by using a credit card with bonus categories when buying pet food and supplies.
If you have a Chase credit card, for instance, sign up for the Ultimate Rewards site and look at the bonus-category merchants. You’ll also often find special savings and bonus-earning offers (called Chase Offers) for pet-related purchases in the card’s offer section. For American Express cards, check out Amex Offers as well. Often you’ll see special bonus-earning offers for pet food and supplies when you log into your Amex account. Some card issuers even have specific email lists for their customers that share special promotions. Keep in mind, though, that not all brands and stores will be included in these programs.
Conclusion
there are several smart strategies you can use to save money on your dog’s food without sacrificing quality or nutrition. Consider buying in bulk, looking for sales, using coupons, and opting for store brands or less expensive types of protein. By putting these tips into practice, you can keep your furry friend healthy and happy without breaking the bank.
