Updated November 2026 · 6 min read
Food is the biggest regular cost of owning a dog or cat, and for many households it's the one that keeps creeping up. The good news is that most people can spend noticeably less without changing what their pet eats. Here's where the savings actually come from.
1. Compare stores every time you buy
The same bag of food often costs different amounts at different stores, and the cheapest store changes from month to month. A gap of $5 to $10 on a large bag is common. Checking before you reorder is the single easiest saving. That's exactly why we built our price comparison.
2. Compare price per pound, not price per bag
A smaller bag can look cheaper while costing far more per meal. Divide the price by the weight to see the real cost. We explain how in our price-per-pound guide.
3. Buy the largest bag your pet can finish while it's fresh
Bigger bags almost always cost less per pound. The catch is freshness: once opened, dry food slowly goes stale and its fats can turn rancid. A good rule is to buy a size your pet will finish in about four to six weeks, and keep it sealed in its original bag inside an airtight container.
4. Use autoship or subscribe-and-save, wisely
Most big online stores take a few percent off food you have delivered on a schedule, and some add a bigger discount on the first delivery. It's worth it for food your pet already eats, as long as you set the schedule to match how fast they actually eat it. Read Is autoship worth it? for the details.
5. Watch for new-customer offers
Stores compete for first-time buyers with one-time discounts on a first order or first subscription. If you're open to switching stores, these can make one order much cheaper. Just compare the regular price afterward too, since that's what you'll pay long term.
6. Look at store brands
Many retailers sell their own brands of dog and cat food, often made to similar nutrition standards as name brands for less money. If you try one, switch gradually and check that the label says the food is "complete and balanced" for your pet's life stage.
7. Measure every meal
Overfeeding is common, and it costs money as well as being hard on your pet's health. Use a real measuring cup and the feeding guide on the bag as a starting point, then adjust for your pet's weight and activity with your vet's advice. Feeding the right amount makes every bag last longer.
8. Mix wet and dry food
Wet food costs a lot more per pound than dry food. If your pet loves wet food, using it as a topper on dry food, instead of as the whole meal, can cut costs considerably while keeping mealtime interesting.
9. Don't forget local stores
Farm supply stores, independent pet shops and warehouse clubs sometimes beat the big chains, especially on large bags. If you spot a great local price, report it on our site so your neighbors can save too.
10. Change foods only with your vet's input
Switching to a cheaper food can be a good move, but sudden changes can upset your pet's stomach, and pets with health conditions may need a specific diet. Ask your vet before switching, and mix the new food in gradually over about a week.