How much does owning a dog cost?

Pedigree dog breeds such as the Dachshund can cost thousands of dollars.

Owning a dog is a fulfilling and heartwarming experience that brings endless joy and companionship to your life. But have you ever wondered how much owning a dog really costs? Unbeknownst to many, welcoming a new furry friend into your home costs more than just the initial adoption or breeder fee. From food to healthcare to products and more, it’s crucial to understand what costs are associated with man’s best friend. Thankfully, we have done the calculations for you so you can have a more comprehensive understanding of how much owning a dog truly costs.

The initial costs

Like most pup parents, the journey to owning a dog begins with the decision to adopt from a rescue or purchase from a breeder. In either case, there will be fees associated with that decision. Depending on whether you adopt a crossbreed dog or purchase a pedigree puppy, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$2000 (or more!) just to bring the dog home. Fees will vary across shelters, locations, and even among dog breeds, so make sure you do your research ahead of time.

Now that you have brought your new furry friend home, the real spending begins! Dogs have diverse dietary needs depending on their size, age, and activity level, so the annual cost of dog food and dog treats can vary greatly. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere between $300-$2000 per year for your dog’s food. Why such a big range? Premium dog food, especially brands that are created for specific allergy or dietary needs, are expensive to make and, as a result, costly to purchase. So when making a budget for dog ownership costs, always consider the possibility of having to change your dog’s diet which could impact your annual ownership costs.

Health and hygiene costs

Routine veterinary care is essential to maintaining your dog’s overall health. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dental care are just some of the ongoing expenses you will encounter as a dog owner. While the size, age, and breed of your dog can impact how much you actually spend, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$800 per year on just regular “well-visit” veterinary bills. But it’s always wise to set aside more in your yearly budget to take care of any unplanned emergencies or unexpected health concerns.

Did you adopt a long-haired beauty or buy a puppy that likes to roll in the mud? Either way, chances are you will spend some money on dog grooming fees along the way. While the grooming needs of dogs vary widely, professional services that include bathing, nail trimming, and haircuts can add up quickly. So if you plan to seek out the help of a pro to pamper your pooch, plan to spend anywhere between $40-$150 per month.

Products and services costs

Owning a dog requires a lot of products. From dog beds and dog toys, to leashes, collars, and dog bowls, the initial cost to set up your dog supplies can run you anywhere between $200-$800 or more. Thankfully, Omlet thought outside the confines of the traditional dog bed and designed an option that will last the life of your dog. With the Topology dog bed you don’t have to keep buying new dog beds every year - this will be the first and only dog bed you’ll ever buy. Toys and blankets, however, may need to be replaced over time, so always keep that in mind when making your dog ownership budget.

While you are your dog’s primary caregiver, there will inevitably come sometimes when you will want to take a vacation where Fido may not be allowed. If you’re lucky enough to have a friend or family member that is willing to watch after your pup, you may save on expenses. But sometimes outside help is needed and you’ll need to make arrangements for your dog’s care. Boarding facilities or pet sitters can cost anywhere from $25-$75 per night depending on location and level of care. So before you book that next vacation getaway, make sure you budget for your dog’s care accordingly.

Total costs

Owning a dog is a long-term commitment that comes with several financial responsibilities. In addition to the costs outlined above, there are miscellaneous dog ownership costs that will have to be factored into your budget. Additional costs such as pet insurance, dog training, or the replacement of chewed-up shoes can all be part of the total cost of owning a dog. If you figure the estimated annual cost of owning a dog is between $1500-$2500 per year, over the average 15-year lifespan of man’s best friend, you could potentially pay close to $38,000 in total.

Omlet dog care

At Omlet, we know the cost of owning a dog can be expensive. But we also know it’s worth every penny! That’s why we design our products to be as durable and sustainable as possible so you can buy once and worry less. From our Topology dog beds to our dog toys and dog accessories, we carefully curate each design to meet the growing needs of your dog, while keeping your costs in mind.

This French bulldog loves their Omlet Topology dog bed with Sheepskin Topper.

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