· Maria Lang · Lifestyle · 4 min read
How to Save Money on Dog Food in the UK
Owning a dog brings joy and companionship, but feeding your furry friend can be expensive. With pet food prices rising, many dog owners are looking for ways to cut costs while still providing nutritious meals. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money on dog food in the UK without compromising on quality.
1. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing larger bags of dog food is often cheaper per kilogram than smaller packs. Many retailers and online stores offer discounts for bulk buys.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Look for multi-buy deals and discounts on larger bags.
- Check wholesale retailers like Costco, Makro, or online pet food suppliers.
- Store dry food in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent waste.
2. Shop Online for Discounts
Online pet food retailers often offer better deals than high street stores. Many websites provide discounts, loyalty schemes, and subscription savings.
Where to Look:
- Zooplus – Regular discounts and bulk-buy savings.
- Pets at Home – VIP Club discounts and multi-buy deals.
- Amazon Subscribe & Save – Discounts for scheduled deliveries.
- Pet Planet – Frequent sales and special offers.
3. Sign Up for Loyalty Schemes
Many pet food retailers have loyalty programs that reward frequent purchases with discounts or cashback.
Best Loyalty Schemes:
- Pets at Home VIP Club – Earn points for discounts.
- Supermarket loyalty cards – Tesco Clubcard and Sainsbury’s Nectar often have pet food deals.
- Zooplus Reward Points – Earn points on purchases for future discounts.
4. Use Cashback and Discount Codes
Before buying dog food online, check for cashback offers and discount codes.
How to Save:
- Use TopCashback or Quidco for cashback on pet food purchases.
- Search VoucherCodes.co.uk or Honey for active discount codes.
- Check supermarket cashback apps like Shopmium for pet food offers.
5. Switch to a Cost-Effective Brand
Premium dog food brands can be expensive, but many budget-friendly alternatives offer similar nutritional value.
Budget-Friendly Dog Food Brands:
- Harringtons – Affordable and made with natural ingredients.
- Lily’s Kitchen (Saver Packs) – Discounts on bulk purchases.
- Aldi’s Earls or Lidl’s Orlando – Cheap and well-rated supermarket brands.
- Butcher’s – Good quality wet food at a lower price.
6. Consider Making Your Own Dog Food
If you have the time, homemade dog food can be a cheaper and healthier option. However, it’s important to ensure meals are balanced and meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
Tips for DIY Dog Food:
- Use affordable protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish.
- Bulk out meals with vegetables like carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes.
- Avoid toxic foods such as onions, garlic, and chocolate.
- Consult your vet before switching to a homemade diet.
7. Mix Wet and Dry Food
Wet food is often more expensive than dry kibble. Mixing the two can help save money while keeping meals nutritious and appealing.
Benefits:
- Reduces costs by making wet food last longer.
- Adds variety to meals.
- Improves hydration compared to dry kibble alone.
8. Take Advantage of Free Samples
Many pet food brands offer free samples so you can test products before committing to a full purchase.
Where to Find Free Dog Food Samples:
- Company websites – Brands like Royal Canin and Burns often have sample offers.
- Pet food expos and events – Look for giveaways and freebies.
- Vet clinics and pet stores – Some give out free samples with purchases.
9. Reduce Waste and Store Food Properly
Proper storage can extend the life of your dog’s food and prevent unnecessary waste.
Storage Tips:
- Keep dry food in an airtight container to prevent it from going stale.
- Store wet food in the fridge and use within 48 hours.
- Freeze homemade dog food in portions to extend its shelf life.
10. Look for Supermarket and Clearance Deals
Supermarkets often have short-dated pet food on clearance at reduced prices. Keep an eye out for yellow sticker discounts.
Where to Find Deals:
- Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda – Check the clearance section.
- B&M, Home Bargains, and Poundland – Often sell discounted pet food.
- Online clearance sections – Retailers like Zooplus and Pets at Home offer discounted short-dated stock.
Conclusion
Feeding your dog well doesn’t have to break the bank. By shopping smart, buying in bulk, taking advantage of online discounts, and considering alternative brands, you can save money on dog food in the UK. Whether you’re switching to budget-friendly brands, using loyalty schemes, or even making homemade meals, these tips will help you keep costs down while ensuring your furry friend stays healthy and happy.
