Texas dog owners don’t mess around when it comes to their pets. From big spending on food and vet care to pampering with spa days and road trips, Texans are going above and beyond to keep their furry family members happy at home. New surveys reveal just how far we’ll go, and the numbers are eye-opening.

Texas Means Business When It Comes to Pets

In Texas, dogs aren’t just pets; they are family. Whether it’s cruising shotgun in the truck or hogging the bed at night, we’ll do just about anything to keep them happy. About 58% of households in Texas own at least one pet, and nearly 43% of Texas households have a dog. That’s a whole lot of tail wags.

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Money Talks: The Pet Budget in Texas

Nationwide, Americans dropped a jaw-dropping $152 billion on pets in 2024, according to the American Pet Products Association.

Here in Texas, the average owner spends around $2,560 per pet every year — food, vet care, toys, grooming, and plenty of treats. To break it down, dog parents across the U.S. shell out about $331/year for vet visits and $293 on food, plus extra for toys, meds, and of course — “just because they looked cute at the store.”

According to a survey from Power Wizard, many owners even adjust their home utilities to keep pets comfy — like lowering the thermostat during Texas heat waves or running air purifiers just for them.

Spoiled Pups Are the Texas Way

We don’t stop at the basics. From memory-foam dog beds to birthday parties complete with cowboy hats, spoiling our pups is just how we roll. And it’s not just stuff — Texans love experiences, too. Doggy day spas, dog-friendly breweries, and Hill Country road trips with the pup riding shotgun are all part of the package.

The Heart of It All

At the end of the day, spoiling pets in Texas isn’t about money — it’s about love. Whether you’re in Abilene, Austin, or Amarillo, Texans go above and beyond to give their dogs the best life possible. And the payoff? That happy bark when you walk in the door.

Speaking of happy pups, if you're looking to add a furry friend to your family, take a look at some of the Urgent Pets in Abilene, Texas, at All Kind Animal Initiative.

Urgent Dogs in Abilene Texas Needing Adoption Before It’s Too Late”

Gallery Credit: Chaz

The 10 most searched pets in the US

The website allaboutcats.com took a look at internet search trends to see what the most in-demand pets are in the US. The results may surprise you.

Gallery Credit: Bob Giaquinto