New statistics for 2009 2010 are now available; the APPA American Pet Products Association gathered some good data that helped Dogrrific extrapolating some numbers.
Over 62% of US households own a pet, it shows from 1988 to 2008 a 6% increase, however not that much of an increase when looking at how successful is the pet vector.
About Dog:
40% of US households own at least 1 dog
Total number of dogs in the US: 78 Million, based on that number there is 1.7 dog per each of the 45.5 millions of household owning a dog (at least 1)
What we spend on dog:
The total US pet industry gross revenue for 2010 is projected at about $ 48 Billion
Out of that number we may think that 50% will be spent for the benefits of our best friends.
Expenditure statistics show a sturdy yearly 2 Billion increase since 2003.
Monthly dog expense: (Average)
Not considering Surgical procedure, Grooming, Toys, Treats, Boarding or Training.
Dog permit: (Average) $1.66
Food: $45 (More if considering the homemade option)
Vitamins: $10
Bed: $5
Collar and leash: $2
Routine veterinary (based on twice a year): $7.5
TOTAL per each month: $71.16 (this could be a low figure, based on dog size and specific needs)
Monthly potential additions:
Kennel boarding: $12.5 (Based on 5 days total per year at $30 daily)
Treats: $5
Toys: $4
Training: $30
Grooming: $25
Keep in mind that vet surgery could raise your yearly expense by many thousands; therefore you might want considering the purchase of a dog health insurance.
Being on the market for that type of insurance calls for shopping around and asking many questions (similar to human health insurance) like what is covered, amount of your deductibles and what is the maximum paid.
Beware of pre-existing conditions.
If you go for it, a decent health plan for a 5 year old medium size mix-breed will cost about $50 monthly.