Want a Dog? How Much it Will Really Cost You

The companionship of a four legged furry dog is one like no other. You walk into your home after a long day and there they are, tail-wagging, tongue hanging out and excited as ever to see you. If you’re a dog lover, you know the pride and joy of owning and raising a dog. But with that pride and joy comes the costs. For those of you looking to add a dog to your family, have you considered how much is it really going to cost you or what should you expect to spend most of your money on for your dog? Hopefully you weren’t thinking squeaky dog toys so you could get back at your bothersome neighbor!

Below are some staple expenses including a dog’s initial adoption fees, vaccinations, monthly food bills, vet visits and chew toys. As there are many different dog sizes and breeds, keep in mind that the numbers below reflect the average annual costs of raising a dog.

One Time Expenses: Some of the initial factors to consider are adoption fees, spay/neuter surgery, puppy vaccinations, first time flea, tick and heartworm meds, a microchip and the food and water bowls. Roughly, depending on how saver-savvy you are, this will cost you around $800.00 per year.

Ongoing Annual Costs: Carrying in bags of dog food and the daily game of fetch with your pup’s favorite ball should get your muscles moving! Between the annual routine exam, food, toys, treats, grooming, flea, tick and heartworm meds, it should cost you about $1,000.00 annually.

Potential Annual Expenses: No matter if you’re remodeling that kitchen, buying a new car or raising a dog, there is always going to be unexpected costs that come up. Emergency vet bills, pet sitting, dog training and teeth cleaning could cost you an estimated $1,400.00 per year.

There’s no price you can put on the cost of a beloved pet. But if you intend on entering the world of parenting a dog it’s better that you’re well prepared for the costs that you will incur. The average annual cost to raise a dog between small, medium, large and giant breeds is $3,200.00. According to the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, the average lifetime cost of raising a dog is $23,410.00. So if you’re in the market and looking to add a new addition to your family, make sure you’re financially ready to take on the expense. Either way you decide, I can tell you that there’s nothing like the love of a dog!