Cost of Dog Ownership
As of 2024 reddit threads
- https://www.reddit.com/r/AskACanadian/comments/199fjjn/canadian_dog_owners_realistically_how_much_money/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Calgary/comments/wxpsdo/how_much_to_be_a_dog_parent_in_calgary/
One Time Purchases
| Cost | Dollar Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Adoption/Breeder Fee | Adoption $0-$500 Breeder Fee $2000-$4000 |
| Training | ~$200 a week, average 8 weeks = $1600 |
| Crate | $75 |
| Bowls | $25 |
| Collar and Leash | $75 |
| Brushes | $50 |
| Microchip | $75 |
| Spay/Neuter | $750 |
| Gastroplexy | $2000 |
| Cremation and Urn | $400 |
| Memorial Book | $50 |
| Estimate | $4000 first year cost |
Reoccurring Costs Per Month
| Cost | Dollar Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Food | $75 |
| Dental Sticks | $30 |
| Treats | $30 |
| Fur Grooming | $100 |
| Nail Trim | $30 |
| Ticks and Fleas | $95/3 months -> 32/month |
| Annual Check Ups | $250/year ->$22/month |
| Dental Cleaning | $200/year -> $17/month |
| Heartworms | $200/year -> $17/month |
| Pet Insurance | $50 |
| Poop Bags/Pee Pads | $30 |
| Toys | $25 |
| Pet License | $50/year -> $5/month |
| Total | $468/month |
I get ~$6000/year but most people say their dogs cost $3000/year -> I believe people are underestimating or they have lower maintenance dogs that can be groomed easily.
Special Costs
- Kennel/Dog Sitter/ Dog Walker
- Consider that you will not be able to travel freely with a dog -> $60/night at the kennel
- Emergency/Surprise Vet Appointments
- Typically $1000 per year average
- If they develop allergies expect specialized food or medical treatment
Instead of getting pet insurance, put away that money in a saving's account to budget for big emergencies so any money saved can go to other things instead of insurance.