Let’s cut to the chase: owning a dog is very expensive. Whether you went to a posh pet store in Beverly Hills or you were lucky enough to have a next door neighbor whose yellow lab had puppies, the true cost of a dog is not what your little buddy went for retail. Like they say in Hollywood, “It’s all in the royalties.” The residual costs of owning a dog will quickly pile up and it is those numbers that determine the true cost of a dog. Between food, grooming, veterinarian bills, toys, and doggie treats “a dollar here and a dollar there” can become a large monthly sum. So if you’re contemplating purchasing or adopting a dog here’s a list of the expenses that will help you determine the cost of a dog.
Dog food is probably an expense you are already contemplating. But just what is the amount? Well this figure will depend upon the size and age of your dog, but just for reference the average large bag of dog food costs about $25. Puppies tend to eat quite a bit of food, and they continue to do so until they are about two or three years old. So if you bought a puppy, be prepared for them to eat a lot of food. The second and most obvious factor is the size of your dog. Large breed dogs will usually burn threw about four large bags of food per month, so if you have a large breed dog expect to pay about $100 in just food. My pug goes through a large bag of food about every two months, so if you have a small dog your cost of owning a dog will be less.
Health Care is not just a concern for you and your family anymore; your dog must now be covered which will be the most significant part of the cost of a dog. Vaccines, dental, annual exams, and neutering/spaying are just a few of the costs you are going to be faced with. Although these are not always monthly costs, health care expenses will be the most expensive part of owning your dog. Check with your veterinarian for prices on these procedures. If your employer offers pet insurance or you can get it privately you should do it. Trust me the $12 you will pay each month ($144 annually) will be much cheaper than what you will pay. Pet insurance is great because it will lower the cost of a dog.
Other things you will be paying for include grooming, toys, treats, collars, leashes, and other accessories will add to the cost of a dog. Grooming depends upon the size and coat of your dog. Your dogs needs their nails clipped, ears cleaned, and teeth brushed. And since you love your dog you will be buying them toys, treats, and (if you are female) clothing. For grooming be prepared to pay between $20 and $50. A box of treats is going to run you about $15, and clothes depend upon your sense of style. Just remember before you purchase a dog, caring for them can be expensive but these costs will always be worth it.
