I read a quote that stated the
average dog owner spends about $600 per year on
the family pet. I mentioned this figure to
my husband and he replied "Yeah, if there is
an emergency, I can see that." Being
the loving wife I am, I did a quick calculation of
what we spend per year, per dog without including
emergencies. What I came up with was very
close to the $600 estimate. So, I decided to
go a bit further and look at numbers. This is what
I came up with – the true cost of a dog.
Before I continue I
need to mention that some of these prices will
vary based on size of the dog and where you get
supplies. A smaller dog will eat far less
than a larger dog. Some breeds require
professional grooming which will add to annual
costs. A dog with a health condition may
cost more over time than a dog without a health
condition. These numbers I came up with are
just guides and not set in stone!
Cost
of Puppy
This can range from $50 through a shelter upwards
to about $750 from a breeder (breeder prices will
often range between $500 - $800 on average based
on many factors and please know how to tell a
reputable breeder over one who is not).
The
First Year
9
week puppy shots $35
- $50 depending on vet 12
week puppy shots $35
- $50 depending on vet 16
weeks rabies shot $7
- $40 depending on where you go Heartworm
preventative $40
- $100 per year depending on size of dog
& type of preventative Collar $5
- $20 Leash $5
- $20 Toys
(puppies and dogs need a variety) $8
- $17 Various
chews $2
- $10ea Crate $25
- $150 Food $15
- $30 (per bag for good, premium food –
cost per year will vary based on dog) Puppy
Classes $45
- $125 per session Basic
Obedience Classes $45
- $125 per session Spay/Neuter $75
- $150 based on gender and size of dog
So depending on
your individual expenses, you could easily spend
$300 - $900 on your puppy the first year alone.
You can easily exceed the cost of the pup you paid
for. So, that cheap little pup one had to
find is really not a cheap little pup!
9
week puppy shots
$35
- $50 depending on vet
