Deduct the cost of your dog

As a Belgian self-employed person, you can deduct the cost of a dog, provided it is used for the security or protection of your office, premises or professional practice, even if your office is at home.

Suppose you can prove the “security” character (the cat will therefore a priori not be deductible). In that case, this case is not hazardous: the Belgian Ruling Commission ruled on the question in 2015 (ruling no. 2015.268, 30.06.2015) 😉.

Deducting the purchase of your dog

The cost of buying your dog, as well as the cost of his kennel (if you decide to build one), are deductible.

Be careful, though, as these are investments (their economic life exceeds one year). You’ll need to depreciate them over time.

The tax authorities don’t specify the depreciation period, so it’s up to you or your accountant to decide. In practical terms, 5 to 10 years seems perfectly reasonable and defensible in the event of an audit.

Deducting veterinary expenses

Veterinary expenses are also deductible, considering that you already deduct your dog as a guard dog. This is all the more attractive as veterinary costs are generally high.

They are as deductible as any other expenses you incur for your dog.
These include:

• food (a major cost item)
• construction and maintenance of his kennel,
• toys,
• leash,
• muzzle (if applicable)

What percentage of deductible expenses can you deduct for your dog?

Please note that expenses related to your dog will always be deductible to the extent of its professional use.

In this case, the deduction will be entirely that of the business premises: 100% if you deduct it entirely, as a professional percentage of the surface area (e.g. 15%) if shared with your home.

Don’t hesitate to contact our tax coaches in the application if you have any questions on this subject 🐶.

What about other pets?

They won’t be deductible unless you can prove the direct link to the security of your office.