WHAT ARE THE EXPENSES OF OWNING A DOG FROM PUPPYHOOD THROUGH ADULTHOOD?
The expenses of owning a dog can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the breed of the dog, where you live, and your own personal preferences.
Here are some expenses you may need to consider:
Initial costs: This includes the cost of purchasing or adopting a puppy, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the breed, where you purchase the puppy/dog, did you adopt/rescue the puppy/dog, did the rescue organization have the pup fully ‘vetted’, microchipped, spayed/neutered and roll all of those costs plus the time they spent ‘boarding’ and any ‘training’ they did into the adoption/rescue fee? As mentioned, some purebred dogs can cost several thousand dollars, while mixed breeds and rescue dogs may be available for a few hundred dollars or less. Of course, you will also need to purchase basic supplies such as a collar/harness, leash, food and water bowls, crate, and bedding. You can read more on this in our article; ‘Purchasing the Correct Supplies To Welcome Your New Puppy Home.’
Vaccinations and Routine healthcare: Puppies require a series of ‘core’ vaccinations plus the Rabies vaccination in their first year of life, and the first 16 weeks are crucial. Keep in mind that annual check-ups are recommended for adult dogs. You will also most likely need to purchase flea and tick prevention, unless you live at very high altitude in an arid climate where fleas do not typically live or survive, or you have knowledge in making your own, and depending on your geographic location, perhaps heartworm prevention, and just like for humans, there will be other medications and or health supplements you will most likely be purchasing as recommended by your veterinarian or veterinary holistic health and wellness advisor.
Food and Training Treats: Puppies and Dogs need to be fed a high-quality diet of species-appropriate protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals in proportionate ratios to maintain their health, and the cost of food can vary depending on the current economy, the brand and quality of foods you choose, or if you will be making your own homemade food after consulting with a canine nutritionist and or your holistic veterinarian. You will also need to purchase training treats and the age/stage appropriate chews and toys for your dog.
Grooming and Hygiene: Depending on the breed of your dog, you may need to invest in ‘regular’ grooming, including bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, and teeth cleaning. You will also need to purchase shampoo, conditioner, and other grooming supplies. * We highly advise that you do some research on the breed or breeds you are considering BEFORE your buy/adopt and determine whether you will need to set aside more money for professional grooming services or whether you will be learning how to bathe and groom your puppy/dog yourself. * See our journal article: How Often Do I Need To Bathe My Dog?
Training and socialization: It's important to invest in both training and socialization for your puppy, which may include puppy classes, obedience training, and other forms of training.
Boarding, Pet-sitting, Dog Walking: If you travel frequently or work long hours, you may need to pay for boarding, pet-sitting, or dog walking services either regularly or just occasionally.
Unexpected Expenses: Just like humans, Puppies/Dogs can sometimes get sick or injured, which can result in unexpected veterinary bills. We would highly suggest that you do some research prior to bringing your new furry friend home, or shortly thereafter for Pet Insurance plans. Most Pet Insurance companies primarily cover accidents and illnesses, however, some of them may have an a la carte menu where you can ‘ADD-ON’ Services such as Preventative Care, like annual check ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. You may have to buy two or more separate policies in order to accomplish what you are looking for. You may also need to invest in things like: a new fence, anti- bark training, behavioral modification classes/training for dogs who may have sustained some type of ill care or abuse and now suffer with things such as Separation Anxiety, Destructive behavior, etc. or other equipment to keep your dog safe and secure.
Athletic classes: Fun activities that are breed, age, stage appropriate for your pup/dog like Agility, FlyBall and so on, are also things you may wish to invest in so that you and your pup get out and about and do some different, challenging things and experience more one on one bonding time besides just doing the ‘usual’ things together around the house and the familiar neighborhood.
Overall, owning a dog can be a significant expense, and it's important to budget as much as you can for all of these costs before bringing a puppy into your home.
Overall, do most people believe the expenses of owning a dog are worth it?
The decision to own and care for a dog is a personal one, and the expenses associated with dog ownership are an important factor to consider. While the costs of owning a dog can be significant, many people believe that the benefits of having a canine companion outweigh the financial burden. Just check out the expression on this little boy’s face in the photo above.
Dogs provide emotional support, companionship, sometimes watchfulness and or protection, and unconditional love. They can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, increase physical activity, and promote social interaction. For many people, the joy and fulfillment that comes with owning a dog makes the expenses worth it.
That being said, it's important to consider your own financial situation and lifestyle before committing to owning a dog. It's important to budget for all the expenses associated with owning a dog, including routine veterinary care, food, supplies, and unexpected expenses. This can help ensure that you are prepared for the financial responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.
Ultimately, the decision to own a dog and whether the expenses are worth it will vary from person to person. It's important to carefully consider your own circumstances and whether you are not just willing, but also able to provide the necessary care and financial support for your furry friend. It doesn’t matter whether their soul comes in the form of a human body or a canine body, we think most people would agree that dogs are members of our families and will be treated and considered as such as long as they live with us.
