Deciding to buy a puppy is a significant decision. Puppies are known for being high maintenance compared to other pets, so you’ll want to be sure you’re ready for a canine commitment.
Overall, having a dog is a costly venture. Not only do you have to pay for the dog itself, which can become expensive depending on the breed, but you also have to pay for food, vet visits, and occasional grooming and boarding.
That said, if you’re up to the financial commitment, a dog can be worth its weight in gold. Here are the nuts and bolts of dog ownership costs.
Cost by Breed
When looking at the dog market, you will find many different breeds across various price ranges.
A few of the most expensive breeds include a Lowchen, a Samoyed, and a Chow Chow. These breeds go for up to $14,000 per puppy. If you are looking for a mid-range dog in terms of price, a good option would be to buy a Labrador puppy. Labrador puppies range from about $600 to $1,500, depending on where you buy them.
Be sure to research the overall price of the dog in terms of its likelihood of needing frequent grooming or vet visits. Some breeds are more prone to certain diseases, which will increase the lifetime money spent on your pet.
Buying at a Shelter
Adopting at a shelter is an excellent option to keep your initial fee on the low end. Depending on the area you adopt in, costs may be as low as $25. However, if you adopt a pet, you’ll have a more challenging time choosing your breed and may end up with a mixed breed dog. While mixed breeds are fine for those who aren’t picky for pedigree, it does mean that you won’t know which health concerns to expect from your pooch.
It will also be difficult to access any previous medical records for a shelter dog. The lack of records will increase your visits to the vet to get the pup healthy once you have adopted them.
If you want a specific breed and you don’t mind paying a little extra, buying your desired breed from a seller might be the route for you.
The Average Monthly Cost of Owning a Dog
The average monthly cost will vary depending on the breed and size of your dog. You can expect to buy consistent food and shelter, including a crate for training and vet visits. Crates run from about $30 to over $100, depending on size and durability.
You will also want to buy your puppy treats and toys for enrichment, which can add up over time. If you go out of town and do not have help watching your dog, you will need to board them for as much as over $50 per day.
Annual vet visits (plus any emergency visits) are necessary to keep your dog in good health. When budgeting for your new buddy, you should hope for the best and save up for the worst.
Before You Go
Buying a dog is a costly choice, but it can be the most rewarding for you and the dog if you commit to taking care of them. Deciding on the breed you want based on your budget and lifestyle is one of the most important things to consider before buying a dog.
It is a rewarding experience, but be sure you are ready to take on the responsibility and cost before taking the puppy plunge.