One in three dog owners have savings set aside for their pet, new research reveals

More than one in three (34%) dog owners regularly save money specifically for dog-related expenses, according to new research commissioned by Leeds Building Society¹.

The study of UK dog owners found that many have opened dedicated savings accounts to help manage the costs of caring for their four-legged friends, from routine vet appointments and insurance excesses to treats, toys and unexpected emergencies.

The findings are released to mark International Dog Day and come as Leeds Building Society announces that dogs are welcome in all of its 51 high street branches across the UK.

Among those dog owners who save specifically for their pets:

• 50% have a dedicated savings account or savings pot for dog-related expenses
• 65% save for vet bills
• 65% save for emergencies or unexpected costs
• 43% save to cover pet insurance excess payments
• 25% save for food
• 23% put money aside for grooming
• 23% save for toys and treats

The research also found that unexpected dog-related costs have had a significant impact on the finances of one in four (25%) owners.

When asked how they would pay for a large, unexpected pet expense, more than a third (35%) would draw on their general savings.

Many owners are making regular contributions to build a financial safety net for their pets. Nearly one in three (30%) of those who save for their dog put aside between £10 and £24 a month, while a further 33% save between £50 and £99 each month. Almost one in five (18%) save more than £100 every month.

Catherine Wray, Head of Savings at Leeds Building Society, said:

"Pets are much-loved members of millions of families across the UK, and like any family member they can sometimes bring unexpected costs. Whether it's a visit to the vet, emergency treatment or just for treats, having money set aside can help provide valuable peace of mind.

"Using an ISA as part of your savings strategy can be a great way to build that safety net. Any interest earned within a cash ISA is tax-free, helping your money work harder while remaining easily accessible if you need it.

"I always recommend that savers start with whatever feels affordable. Regular contributions, even small amounts, can build up over time and create a useful buffer for future expenses.

"It's also worth reviewing your savings regularly and thinking about your different goals. Some people choose to keep separate pots for holidays, home improvements or emergency funds, and we're increasingly hearing from customers who have savings set aside specifically for their pets.

"As a dog-friendly building society, we're always delighted to welcome customers and their four-legged companions into our branches.”

To find out more, pop into a branch or visit Building Society Savings Accounts | Our Best Savings Accounts UK | Leeds Building Society.

Customer case study – Sophie Dancer and six-year-old Rottweiler, Chief

"Chief has been part of our family since he was a puppy. Like most dog owners, we want to make sure we can give him everything he needs and be prepared if something unexpected happens.

"That's why we decided to start putting money aside for him as soon as we brought him home. We opened a dedicated ISA to help cover any future costs or unexpected expenses.

"Over the years that has paid for routine vet care, family trips with Chief, and just having a safety net of savings to make sure we can always give him the best possible life.

"Having these savings set aside gives us real peace of mind. It's become our little 'PISA' – a Pet ISA specially for Chief. We add to it regularly and it's reassuring knowing that the money is there if we ever need it.

"When I talk to other dog owners, lots of my friends do something similar. Dogs are such an important part of family life and they can come with unexpected costs, so having a savings pot just makes sense."

Note to Editors

Research commissioned by Leeds Building Society among 118 UK dog owners in July 2026.¹