Prepare for the Costs of Having a New Puppy

Filed in - puppy - cost - care - expenses - veterinary

Costs of Having a Puppy:

The costs may not be obvious to a new owner at first, but they quickly become apparent.  Not realizing how expensive good puppy care can be is no excuse for not providing basic care.  In the first 6 months of ownership you can expect to spend well over TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS.  This may or may NOT include purchase price!  Proper veterinary care is a must, it is not optional!

  • Purchase/adoption cost: Varies absolutely anywhere from Free to $2,000
  • Vet visits (at least 3 for vaccines and supplies like heart worm prevention and flea tick medication): $100-$200 EACH visit MINIMUM
  • Spay/neuter (varies on size of dog): $200-$500
  • Crate: $50-150Toys: Your limit!
  • Obedience classes: $160 per session
  • High Quality Food (varies greatly by quality and size of dog): ~$40 per month
  • Unexpected boarding in a kennel: ~$25 per day
  • Unexpected veterinary emergencies (puppies eat stupid things!): Any amount is possible

Please be prepared.  Also, consider hiring a professional to help you pick out your puppy.  This may help save you hundreds of dollars and lots of heartache in the long run.

Jessica