That means you should factor in any puppy care costs alongside your other monthly expenses, such as groceries, gas and rent. 'As another member of your household, their daily living expenses will become part of your monthly non-discretionary expenses.' 'Owning a dog is a huge responsibility,' says Cassie Denger, a client relationship specialist at Fort Pitt Capital Group. How much should you be prepared to spend on a dog?īefore getting a dog, consider the potential financial implications and whether your budget can handle the added cost. If you're on the fence with your decision, here's what experts say about how much dogs can cost and advice on how to save up for one if you aren't quite there yet financially. As the AVMA puts it, when choosing any type of pet, you should avoid making 'impulsive decisions' and make sure it's suited to your home and lifestyle. Since this is an expensive life choice, it's important to keep your emotions at bay when deciding whether to get a dog. At the far end of the spectrum, those willing to pay premium prices to cover their dog's needs can end up spending nearly $10,000 a year. It's estimated that owning a dog costs about $1,400 to $4,300 per year, writes Jenna Stregowski, a registered veterinary technician and contributor for The Spruce Pets, an online reference for pet owners. And those responsibilities, which include feeding, grooming and providing shelter for your pup, can add up fast, especially if your pet ends up with health issues.

Monthly cost of having a dog