Don’t consider adopting a dog unless you can actually afford it. On the real side, the cost of having a dog is a lot more than just the cost of purchasing food for a pet.
Many people don’t consider all the expenses involved in adopting and bringing up a dog. The right time to calculate for a dog’s expenditure is before you get one. Providing for the financial requirements is a major part of being a responsible dog owner so it’s essential that you calculate in advance what you are getting yourself into.
The factors that contribute to the total cost of owning a dog are its size and age, the area where you live, the kind of lifestyle you have, and individual wants of the dog that you bring into your family. These are the major concerns that should be taken care of when deciding if you can afford a dog in your life. To be honest, the total cost is estimated to land between USD 700 and USD 3,000 per year.
Purchasing or Adopting
A new member (dog or puppy) will come with major expenses initially. If you want to buy a purebred dog from a recognized breeder, expect to shed off USD 500 to USD 2,000, or maybe more. It all depends on how rare and popular the breed is. Spending some extra bucks initially on a superior dog from a trustworthy and qualified breeder will cost you less in the long run as the dog will be healthier and less vulnerable to several genetically inbred diseases that may not show up until your pet has become an important part of your family.
Out of 3.3 million dogs entering the U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year, only 1.6 million are adopted. If you like the personalities and looks of mixed-breed dogs and you want to help dogs in need, choosing your dog from a rescue group or the local animal shelter will be a great idea. Adopting from a rescue or shelter can cost as minute as USD 50 to USD 200. If you adopt from a trustworthy animal shelter or rescue group, your chances of getting a fit dog are much greater.
Irrespective of where you get your new dog, take it to a veterinarian immediately. The need for vaccines, preventive medications, and special treatments will decide that first visit’s cost. You can expect is to be anywhere from USD 100 to USD 300.
Another major expense to follow will be the cost of dog supplies which can add up to USD 1570 annually. You’ll need plenty of dog food, a collar, leash, bed, toys and what not. You may also want to hire a dog trainer or send him to obedience classes if you’re unable to train him yourself. Raising a dog in the first year can cost twice as much as the annual cost in the years to follow.
Feeding Your Dog
It is important that your dog eats a high-quality dog food and takes healthy dog treats. The total expense should settle between USD 20 and USD 60 per month. Food expenses may vary according to the size and energy level of your dog. It is obvious for a Great Dane to eat more than a Poodle, and a dog that dozes all day long needs less food than an energetic one who’s always bubbling up with energy.
Toys
We just can’t skip on this one. Dog toys are a major part of your dog’s mental spur and workout. The estimated expenditure would be USD 50 to USD 150 per year or even more if you choose to pamper your dog with fancy treats. If it likes to chew and tear up the toys that you provide, get ready to shed the same amount every month.
Beds
Just like humans, every dog deserves a comfy bed. Buying one for your four-legged will cost you anywhere between USD 100 and USD 250. The cost is similar to the cost of mattresses for humans and it’s surely going to be more for larger sizes and quality beds. Select a high-quality bed which is durable and easy-to-clean as it will last longer and you won’t have to change it frequently.
Leashes and Collars
It’s essential for your dog to have at least one leash and one collar with ID tags. Retractable leashes are the current rage and allow your dog to easily roam and explore when out on walks. Usually, dog owners spend USD 20 to USD 50 on a leash and collar, depending on its size and quality.
Routine Vet Care
Routine vet care is the most important part of keeping your dog hale and hearty. Wellness check-ups once or twice a year should be planned. Costing is heavier for emergency visits to the vet due to unexpected illnesses. This will include vet costs as well as medications or surgery costs if the need arises. Vet expenses will be very high if your dog faces any serious health problem. Apart from that, all dogs require medications to prevent fleas, ticks, heartworms and other parasites. Overall, be prepared to spend USD 100 to USD 250 per year for these items.
Boarding or Pet Sitters
Let’s be real, we can’t take dogs everywhere with us. No matter how much we want to, we just can’t. Most people will have to leave their dogs behind when going away from home. This can cost USD 100 to USD 500 each time, according to where you board your dog and for how long. Boarding houses usually charge less than pet sitters, but if you want the individual attention that a pet sitter offers, get ready to pay the additional expense.
So it is evident, raising a dog is a serious and costly affair. Before adopting or purchasing a dog, consider all the expenses listed above and other miscellaneous costs. Be sure that you’re financially prepared for the task of providing a loving and safe home for your canine friend before you welcome him into your life.
