The Money Factor, consider these points!

Before choosing to have a dog it is important to understand that having a dog will result in a certain amount being spent for your dogs’ procurement, keeping and care. In terms of expenses, these relate to the basic requirements of a dog which are food, shelter and care besides physical and mental stimulation.

The information given below will equip you with the required details for you to make a rough estimate of the cost of having a dog. Some of these items are compulsory while others are optional. You need to find out the rates in your area for each of item. The rates will vary over time but this should be a good starting point and one can always revisit this list to incorporate changes and additions.

Preliminary Expenses:
Cost of purchase of dog/pup
Cost of license
Breeders’ Fees (if any)

One- time Expenses (unless wear and tear demands replacement):
Cost of dog house and dog- mover (could be a crate or a cage)
Cost of sleeping rugs or bedding
Cost of food and water bowls
Cost of leashes, collars and identification tags
Cost of a dog grooming kit (to include combs/ brushes/ washcloths/ toothbrushes/ scissors/ clippers/ pincers/ towels/ sponge cloths)
Cost of dog toys

Please check out if there are any other legal requirements that need to be adhered to in your area that may result in another expense header.

Recurring Expenses
Cost of food
Cost of toothpaste/ soaps/ shampoos/ conditioners/ special cleaning products/ anti-parasite powders/ drying agents

Please refer to dog nutrition for more details on dog food and to dog grooming for more details on grooming requirements.

Medical Expenses
Cost of standard Injections/ vaccinations, boosters and the cost of optional injections
Cost of annual Medical Examinations
Cost of Neutering/ spaying
Vets’ Fees
Cost of treatment and medicines if your dog is ill

Please consult your vet as soon as you bring your dog home. It is best to maintain a planner-cum-diary to ensure that the necessary medical requirements are met.

Probable Expenses:
Groomers’ and Trainers’ Fees - If you are trained to do this yourself you will not incur this expense. The added advantage is that these two activities will help you bond with your dog. A few visits to professionals interspersed with your own grooming and training sessions is a more economical and beneficial solution.

Lodging Fees - If there is no one to look after your dog while you are away on business or holiday and you cannot take your dog along, you may need the services of Dog Boarding Homes. Please ensure that you choose a good boarding house and give the necessary instructions clearly. It is advisable to write these down so that they can be referred to by the one caring for your dog.

Dog Parks Fees - Some areas have special parks where people are allowed to walk their dogs besides having open spaces where owners can play with their dogs. These parks are places where dogs can meet each other and play together. Some parks charge a small fee.

You may have other costs depending upon your lifestyle and the lifestyle you choose to give your dog.