Dogs can be wonderful pets offering unconditional love, a level of security, and even health benefits. It’s hard to put a price tag on that kind of relationship. However, when buying or adopting a dog, it’s easy to forget about the long term costs involved. In reality, the initial price or adoption fee is only the beginning. It’s imperative that those thinking about getting a dog realize not only the time commitment required but financial commitment as well.
Average Cost of Owning a Dog
According to the 2005-2006 American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) National Pet Owners Survey, the average yearly cost of owning a dog is $1571. If your dog lives 10 years (and most dogs live longer), that comes to $15,710, not allowing for inflation. Now that’s only the average. Depending on the dog and your financial management skills, costs can run lower than that or they can run higher.
Let’s take a closer look at the real expenses, over and above the initial price or fee, in keeping a dog. You may be surprised.
- Immunizations to prevent future illness
- Internal/External Parasite Control including heartworm preventative, flea and tick treatment and worming
- Licensing
- Spay/neuter for health benefits and behavioral issues
- Supplies such as collar, leash, bowls, bedding, crate, toys
- Food and treats
- Grooming/bathing and nail clipping
- Doggy clothing such as booties, sweaters, etc
- Cleaning supplies for the occasional mess
- Obedience training
- Occasional boarding
- Fencing
- Veterinary care including regular exams, lab, x-ray, dental, occasional illness or injury treatment (these costs can balloon rapidly)
- Medications (these costs usually rise or become ongoing for aging dogs)
- Optional pet health insurance
- Optional pet deposits for housing
Dogs From Breeders
Considering the expenses involved, it’s easy to see how breeding dogs may not be the most profitable business. Not all, but many, breeders making a worthwhile profit, are likely cutting corners that should not be cut. This is why it’s wise to be very cautious when buying from breeders or pet stores.
Dogs From Shelters
Most shelters and rescues are non-profit. Many of them survive through donations, compassionate volunteers, and kind veterinarians who offer them discounts. The adoption fees they charge usually include a vet exam, spay/neuter, immunizations, worming, current preventatives, and a microchip or tattoo.
'Free' Dogs
If you are inclined to hesitate at the initial price or adoption fee, remember that even a ‘free to good home’ dog will require some economic juggling over the months and years of his life. These costs must be considered before making that lifetime commitment to a dog who will become a member of your family.
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Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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