Do you think you want a dog? Do you see a dog and think, "That dog is sooooo cute! It'd make the perfect companion!"
Dogs offer friendship, loyalty, unconditional love, and constant companionship, but owning and raising a dog is an investment
Know the costs of a lifetime of canine healthcare and its everyday necessities such as toys, bedding, and food
Plan and budget for your dog’s needs
So You Want A Dog?
The cost of buying a dog: depending on the breed, a dog from a reputable breeder can cost between $300 and $1500
The fee for adopting a dog that can range anywhere between $25 to $300
Ask the breeder for a health guarantee. The breeder may take the puppy back and refund your money if health problems arises within a certain number of days after you take the puppy home
Buying a dog from a reputable breeder may be more expensive, but the higher price tag may save money on veterinary bills and training
The adoption fee will go toward paying some of your dog’s initial medical costs,which may include the cost of rabies/ distemper vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and heartworm tests
Adoption will help support a shelter to provide care for other animals
Planning For Your Dog's Necessities
Foodcan cost anywhere between $120 and $500 each year
Talk to your veterinarian about selecting the best food for your dog
To offer you peace of mind should your dog run away or get lost, budget microchipping, which can cost between $30-75
Factor in the cost of toys around $40 each year for small dogs, and around $75 for larger dogs
Your dog needs a comfortable place to sleep, and a good bed can cost between $25 to $100
Account For Your Dog's Day To Day Expenses
Dog treats:up to $50 per year
Professional training:up to $500 per year
A collar and a leash: between $8 to $20
A dog crate: between $40 to $150, depending on its size and quality
Some cities and towns have a yearly pet registration fee, which can cost between $10 to $20
A pet deposit may cost between $300-750 depending uponwhere you live
Landlords may charge a non-refundable pet deposit (or may not even allow pets on their property so check first)
Figure Out The Cost Of Healthcare For Your Dog
Neutering or spaying your dog can range from $200-450
Flea, tick, and heartworm medication which can range from $100-300 per year
A typical office visit to a veterinarian can cost between $45 and $100 each visit
Pet health insurance which is about $500 per year
See if your dog is likely to develop any health problems based on its breed.
Budget for the cost of additional medications, imaging, and emergency vet visits which can add up to thousands of dollars
Caring For Your Dog When You Are Away
Doggie daycare can rangefrom $20-75 per day
Look into the fees for boarding your dog overnight which canrange from $30-80 per night
The cost of a dog walker can rangefrom $250-350 per month
Quiz
You really want a dog. Which factors should you consider in this decision?
Take Action
The average cost of getting a dog: $1,635
The average cost of maintaining and caring for a dog: $1,100 per year
Before you get a dog:
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