When you first get a dog, there can be a lot of one-time, upfront costs. It can seem daunting at first but you’re not alone. We have checklists to help you figure out essentials and what to expect in terms of cost. By budgeting ahead, you can alleviate financial anxiety and increase your confidence in being a supportive pet parent!
How much you spend depends on whether your dog prefers the basics or if they can puppy-eye you into splurging. According to our research, the all up total of bringing your dog home typically ranges from $1,135 to $5,155 for the first year. This is an increase of about 12% since 2022.
Item |
From |
To |
Adoption fees |
$115 |
$725 |
Spay or neuter surgery |
$340 |
$1,500 |
Microchip |
$60 |
$80 |
Initial vet exam and vaccinations |
$340 |
$510 |
Collar or harness |
$5 |
$115 |
Leash |
$10 |
$55 |
Food bowls |
$5 |
$75 |
Poop bags |
$10 |
$45 |
Crate |
$30 |
$400 |
Bed |
$15 |
$550 |
Shampoo and brush |
$15 |
$40 |
Stain and odor removers |
$5 |
$20 |
Potty pads |
$20 |
$80 |
Toys |
$5 |
$80 |
Treats |
$5 |
$115 |
Basic veterinary care |
$110 |
$340 |
Pet license |
$20 |
$100 |
Food |
$25 |
325 |
Total |
$1,135 |
$5,155 |
Adoption and breeder fees
When it comes to buying a dog, adoption fees range between $115 and $725. If you want a purebred puppy, however, these cost can balloon beyond $1,000 and up to $4,500. We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to do your breed research before you commit! Certain breeds have specific needs and require a more experienced or committed pet parent than others. One Rover editor found out firsthand how differently a puppy vs. an adult dog costs, especially when it comes to training and separation anxiety.
Don’t forget a pet license ($20 to $100) and dog microchip either which typically costs $60-$80 for a dog, depending on where you live.
Vet visits and vaccinations
Regardless of where your pup comes from, you’ll want to get them checked by a vet when you bring them home. One of the most noticeable increases in costs from last year are in this category. “We base our prices off of a yearly fee guide from our vet association,” claims Dr. Rebecca Greenstein. “This year, across the board there’s been a 5-10% increase in every cost.” Here’s how vet visits break down in the first year:
- The first vet visit, which covers vaccinations can cost anywhere from $340-$510. You may also find low cost pet vaccination programs near you.
- Spay or neutering can cost anywhere from $340-$1,500. You’ll want to budget for this within the first year, if your pet isn’t spayed or neutered yet. However, if you adopt, the adoption fee may covers a spay or neuter. Tip: You may be able to find low cost spay/neuter clinics near you.
- Additional vet visits for younger dogs may include a wellness exam and parasite prevention. These can average between $110-$325 for new pet parents.
Your dog’s vet visit may be more than once a year yet too, depending on their age or health conditions they may have. Make sure you’re prepared for other medical expenses your new dog may need. Pet insurance can be a helpful aid in paying for some of these expenses.
New dog supplies
Next up are the essential supplies to keep your new dog comfortable at home. Many of these dog items will vary in cost based on factors like your dog’s size, the type, and where you get it from:
Toys and treats are also an important part of getting your dog to create positive associations with their new home and bond with you.
The cost of keeping your home and your dog smelling great can vary as well. If you need to house-train your pup inside, puppy training pads can cost anywhere from $20-$80. You may skip the potty pads if adopting an adult dog but don’t skimp on grooming tools. Depending on your dog’s fur need, dog shampoo and brushes can cost anywhere from $15-$40 per brush, while stain and odor removers for your carpet cost up to $20 each time.
Like all things, initial expenses can range depending on your dog’s breed and size but also your own preferences and lifestyle as a pet parent. When choosing your dog, don’t forget to do some breed-specific research and take a look at the price ranges for each expense. Maybe you’ll discover that making your own dog toys in order to splurge on treats is the money-saving hack for your budget planning.