When thinking of getting a puppy, the total expenses involved with having that cute little guy aren’t usually a consideration. But before taking on the responsibility for owning and caring for a dog, it’s wise to make sure to think about the costs involved.
Starter Dog items
To begin with, every dog needs a collar, leash, name tag and a license. These items should run around $60.00. Add to the must-have list, dog feeders and waterers and the expense is bumped up another $10.00 to $40.00.
Cost of Dog Food & Treats
Just as important is feeding a puppy. Obviously the amount a dog owner spends on food will vary according to the size of dog and the type of dog food he is fed. Most veterinarians recommend buying a premium brand of dog food to ensure the proper nutrition. Petco’s “Why Buy Premium Dog Food” guide defines premium as food that has a higher quality source of protein (meat rather than plant protein), no artificial dyes and antioxidants and vitamins. Premium is usually digested more easily and results in a healthier dog.
It takes less premium food to provide the nutrition than the cheaper brands which results in less dog poop! By comparing the feeding recommendation on the bag of dog food, a dog owner will realize that maybe the “bargain” brand isn’t really a bargain and will require more pooper scooper action!
Dry Dog Food
Petco has a reasonably priced premium brand of dog food for around $12.00 for a five pound bag which lasts a small puppy about 2 months. The larger 12.5 pound bag is priced at $29.99. Using this brand, feeding a small puppy or dog will cost approximately $75.00 a year.
Common treats during the first year are:
- Rawhide chews $12.00 for pack of 100 (2 packages a year)
- Dog Biscuits $$12.00 for 5 pounds (5 packages a year)
- Training treats for puppies - $3.00 for 100 small treats (1 per month for 6 months)
Conservative Estimated Total for Food and Treats = $177
Dog Vaccinations and Medicine
During the first year a puppy will need to visit the Veterinarian for various reasons. It is important for the owner to begin a vaccination program around 8 weeks to keep puppies healthy and take preventive measures against parasites and worms. A new puppy should get the following vaccinations and medications its first year:
- Puppy shots will cost approximately $15.00 each for a series of three - $45.00
- Parvo/distemper shot - $25
- Annual Rabies shots $18
- Fecal worm lab check - $15
- Vet Exams average $50.00 per exam (some will give a litter discount if all puppies are brought in together) 4 times a year $200
- Heartworm prevention tablets – (1 per month) $68 for 12 tablets
Total minimum for vaccinations and medicine - $371
Dog Grooming
Dogs require regular love and maintenance. They need baths to remove the dirt and discourage fleas and ticks. Brushing their coats at least weekly will keep it from getting matted. For longer haired dogs, they will need a haircut and a complete grooming at least quarterly.
- Flea & Tick Shampoo – $10.00 - $20.00
- Pet Brush - $10.00
- Groomer (depending on dog breed) - $25.00 - $70.00, three to four times a year minimum
Conservative estimate for annual dog grooming $100.00
Kennels and Dog Carriers
Dogs need a safe place to play and sleep. During the puppy stage this is especially important for house breaking and keeping them out of trouble inside the home and safe outside. Kennels can range from $35.00 to $300.00, depending on the size of the dog and design of the kennel. They’ll also need a dog bed for comfort inside the kennel which runs from $10 - $35
Sometimes a larger dog might need a dog run which would require chain link fencing. That would set a dog owner back $200 - $300. If a dog is kept outside, it will need a dog house, running from $70 to $300.
Additionally when traveling with a pet, a pet carrier will keep them safe in the car and prevent accidents during the drive. Pet carriers run the gamut from a purse type carrier to a carrier on wheels, $35 - $200
Costs for kennels and carriers $30 - $350
Total First Year Costs to Have a Dog
Adding all these items up the first year’s costs will run a dog owner approximately $900 for the basics. Of course the list isn’t conclusive. There might be purchases of pee pads during the housebreaking phase, vitamins, poop bags, toys, trainers, barrier gates, a doggie door and more.
Bottom line, there are expenses that are unavoidable when a new dog joins the family. As well there are items that a dog and its owner will enjoy together that aren’t even a necessity. There are many retail stores and websites dedicated to pets, and the discount retailers usually have a comprehensive pet section. Shopping definitely pays off after bringing home a new puppy. And they are worth every penny spent!
Related Reading:
"What to Do if Your Dog Swallows Your Medicine"
Resources:
Petco
Arizona Humane Society Website (Licensing)
Jan Peterson - I'm a retired banker, published songwriter, cyber journalist, and member of the advisory board for the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall ...
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