Monthly Costs of Owning a Dog in Japan: What to Expect and How to Plan

Introduction

Having a dog brings immense joy, but it also comes with financial responsibility. In Japan, pet care is taken seriously, which is reflected in the monthly expenses. If you are thinking about adopting or buying a dog here, it’s essential to understand how much you’ll spend each month. In this article, we provide a practical and detailed overview of the monthly costs of keeping a dog in Japan, from food to health care and basic maintenance.

1. Food Costs

• Dry kibble (quality brands): ¥3,000 to ¥7,000/month (small breeds)

• Premium or special diet food: ¥6,000 to ¥12,000/month

• Treats and supplements: approx. ¥1,000 to ¥3,000/month

• Tip: Both Japanese and imported brands are available. Costs vary significantly depending on the size and dietary needs of your pet.

2. Hygiene and Cleaning Products

• Pee pads: ¥1,000 to ¥3,000/month

• Shampoos and cleaning products: ¥500 to ¥2,000/month

• Disposable items (poop bags, wipes, etc.): ¥500 to ¥1,500/month

3. Veterinary Services and Preventive Care

• Basic consultation: ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 (not necessarily monthly, but should be considered in the budget)

• Flea/tick prevention: ¥1,000 to ¥2,500/month

• Deworming: usually every 3 months, costing around ¥1,000 to ¥2,000

4. Pet Shops, Grooming, and Bathing

• Bathing: ¥3,000 to ¥6,000 (small to medium breeds)

• Grooming: ¥4,000 to ¥8,000

• Monthly packages at pet shops can range from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000/month

5. Health Insurance (optional but recommended)

• Partial coverage plans: ¥2,000 to ¥4,000/month

• Comprehensive coverage plans: ¥4,500 to ¥8,000/month

6. Other Variable Costs

• Toys: ¥500 to ¥2,000/month (or more, depending on the pet)

• Training or obedience classes: ¥4,000 to ¥10,000 per session

• Transportation (pet-friendly taxis, travel luggage): variable costs

✅ Conclusion

Having a dog in Japan is feasible, but it requires planning. Understanding the monthly expenses helps avoid surprises and ensures your pet enjoys a healthy and happy life. Remember: good financial planning is one of the greatest demonstrations of love and responsibility you can offer your four-legged friend. 🐕