How much does a dog cost? Budgeting guide for dog owners

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You have decided to take the big step to becoming a dog owner. Dogs live long lives, so you are making a commitment for at least 10 years to be responsible for all your furry friend’s needs. But how much does a dog cost?

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In the US, it’s been calculated that a dog can end up costing anywhere from $22,000 during his lifespan to close to $90,000, according to Forbes. That’s a lot of additional income needed to support another family member. Thus before you decide on adopting a dog, you need to make a budget so you’ll know if you are up to the financial responsibility that comes with having a canine companion.

From dog food to vet bills, there are many things to consider. You need to be sure that you’re capable of being financially responsible for a dog before adopting. If you’re unsure, it’s best to wait until you are 100% certain that you’ll be able to give your Fido the care that he needs and deserves.

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So how much does a dog cost exactly and how can you make a budget before adopting one? Let’s dig in and do some math.

How Much Does a Dog Cost? Budgeting Guide for Dog Owners

Dog Breed Costs: $50-$2000 First Year

Before you choose your dog, you need to research the breed.

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Some dog breeds cost more than others to purchase from the get go. Other breeds are not as inherently healthy, therefore may end up costing a lot in veterinarian bills. Or they may require a lot of grooming and general maintenance, meaning that you’ll spend extra money on dog grooming supplies and other pet products.

Here are some first budget related factors you want to consider before adopting a dog:

• Do you want to pay for a certified pure bred dog? Some breeds are more expensive than others because of how rare or exotic their breed is. Moreover, paying for a pure bred will also be more costly than for a mutt. So make sure you don’t have a taste for pure bred dogs if you have a “mutt budget.”

• Getting a dog from a reputable breeder will reduce the chances of genetic health risks. As it was discussed on our podcast, inbreeding causes risks for genetic illness in dogs. Those may be blindness, deafness, bone problems, digestion problems, and behavioral issues. Ensure that if you get a dog from a breeder that they have references and certifications. “Puppy mills” produce animals that are already sick due to unhygienic conditions, which will ultimately cost you a lot of extra in vet bills.

• Have you researched the desired breed to check for general healthiness? Some breeds have had lesser inbreeding. Some are also just genetically more hearty. The breed of dog that you choose will be the largest factor in overall cost. So if it worries you how much does a dog cost, you better do enough research on the type of dog you’re adopting and know how healthy he’s going to be.

• Don’t forget about first-time dog supplies. Once you adopt a puppy or an adult dog, he’ll need dog food and dog toys, as well as some essentials like leashes, collars, bowls, and so forth. You don’t have to splurge on more expensive items that aren’t vital, but some of these you (and your dog) cannot do without, so make sure you account for that (more on how much these costs below in the article).

Here’s a great chart on pet care costs that gives you some general ideas on how much a dog costs. For more in-depth details, keep reading.

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