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Demand for new puppies has increased 25% year-on-year according to new data from pet rehoming platform Pets4Homes.
The platform also revealed that 45% of its puppies sold within four weeks in 2024 which is an all-time high. Animal welfare experts warn that the rising cost of caring for pets, vet bills, insurance, and food, may leave many new owners unprepared for the long-term financial commitment.
With UK households already under strain, experts are concerned that today’s puppy boom may lead to a wave of abandoned dogs tomorrow.
In a recent survey by Pets4Homes, 49% of respondents spend £101 – £151 per month on their pet. However, the cost of responsible breeding has soared with costs of up to £1,564 per year for a licence.
For a dog with a lifespan of 13 years, this equates to £15,756 – £23,556 over their dog’s lifetime.
Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes, said: “While it’s encouraging to see renewed interest in responsible pet ownership, the reality is that rising costs don’t stop after purchase. Pets are a 10-15 year commitment, and we worry that without proper planning, some buyers could face tough decisions when expenses mount. It’s crucial that potential buyers research the costs of keeping a pet, and ensure they’re able to meet this before making a purchase.”
