Owning a Dog: Like a 15-20 Hour Part-Time Job in 2025 UK

Many people in the UK work several jobs or long hours to make ends meet. Yet if you’re considering dog ownership alongside a busy lifestyle, it’s vital to understand the significant time commitment involved. Owning a dog responsibly often feels like having a part-time job demanding about 15 to 20 hours a week or more — and unlike paid work, you pay for the privilege!

If you work full-time or juggle multiple responsibilities, having a dog means finding dedicated time in your schedule for their care. Read on to discover the realities of dog ownership in 2025 UK, including the necessary time, effort, and costs you should be ready for.

Caring For Your Dog Properly Requires 15-20+ Hours Weekly

It’s important to note that simply relaxing with your dog or having them accompany you while doing other things doesn’t count toward the time needed for proper care.

For most dogs, the minimum daily exercise requirement is about an hour's walk, totalling at least seven hours per week. For active breeds such as the Border Collie puppies, this is often insufficient, and they require even more activity and mental stimulation.

Beyond walks, you need to allocate time for grooming, training, playing, feeding, vet visits, and other practical tasks. Grooming can take from 30 minutes to over two hours a week depending on coat type, while training and behavioural enrichment also demand daily attention. Altogether, 15 to 20 hours per week is a realistic baseline to meet your dog’s welfare needs effectively.

Reliability and Routine Are Essential

Dogs thrive on routine and reliability, so good timekeeping to maintain feeding and walking schedules, vet appointments, and daycare or sitter arrangements is crucial. Inconsistent care can affect your dog’s wellbeing and strain relationships with helpers or professionals.

Responsibility Beyond the Obvious

Being a dog owner means you bear full responsibility for your dog’s training, safety, and behaviour. You must also uphold standards to keep others around you safe and satisfied, which is a significant commitment and an important part of responsible ownership.

Early Mornings and Unpleasant Tasks

No dog owner can expect lie-ins or skipping less-favourite jobs like cleaning up after the dog, brushing teeth, or managing unexpected messes. These everyday chores are part of the role, much like any job’s less glamorous tasks.

Financial Commitment: An Average £3,050 Annually

Besides time, dog ownership entails substantial financial costs. In the UK 2025, a medium-sized dog’s average annual expenses reach approximately £3,050. This covers food, veterinary care including vaccinations and parasite treatments, pet insurance, grooming, training, accessories, and occasional boarding or daycare.

Costs can vary by breed, size, and health needs. Some owners, especially those with chronic health issues for their pets or opting for premium services, may spend over £4,000 a year. Planning ahead financially is as crucial as time commitment.

Legal and Welfare Responsibilities for UK Dog Owners

UK dog owners in 2025 must comply with the Animal Welfare Act 2006, providing a suitable environment, diet, health care, and allowing behaviour natural to dogs. Microchipping, vaccinations, and wearing ID tags are legal requirements.

Training and behaviour must ensure dogs do not become a nuisance or danger; failure to comply with laws like the Dangerous Dogs Act can lead to penalties. Owners must also clean up after dogs in public or risk fines.

For tenants, landlords are required to reasonably accommodate dog ownership but expect care to prevent property damage and nuisance. Owners must also respect livestock and countryside laws to avoid legal issues.

Summary: Is Dog Ownership Right for Your Lifestyle?

In 2025 UK, owning a dog means embracing a role that resembles a part-time job demanding 15-20 hours weekly and a budget of over £3,000 annually. Reliable routine, responsibility, and a heartfelt commitment are essential.

While demanding, dog ownership rewards you with companionship, joy, and unconditional love. If you’re prepared for the time, financial, and legal obligations detailed here, you can ensure your dog thrives and becomes a cherished family member for years to come.