| If you are considering adding a dog to your | | | | higher for bigger dogs, including a bigger crate, bigger |
| household, you should stop and consider the long | | | | collar, bigger dog bed, higher dose of flea/tick and |
| term expenses involved. Don't misunderstand me, I | | | | heartworm medicine...you get the idea. |
| think a dog is a great addition to a family, but it | | | | If you choose to buy a puppy from a breeder, you |
| should not be an impulsive decision. Even if you | | | | will spend anywhere from $800 to $2000 depending |
| choose to adopt a puppy or a dog from a shelter or | | | | on the breed, with the average cost being around |
| rescue, there will be costs, both at the start and | | | | $1200. This may sound like a lot of money to spend |
| throughout the life of your new furry friend. Long | | | | on a dog but there are advantages to buying from a |
| term costs will vary depending on the size and type | | | | reputable breeder. You will be guaranteed a physically |
| of dog you choose. | | | | sound, healthy pup with a stable temperament. You |
| A pet store is not a good place to buy a puppy | | | | will likely be able to see the pups parents and see a |
| because many of these pups come from puppy mills | | | | record of the pedigree. If you want to buy a pure |
| and may have serious health or behavior problems. | | | | breed dog, make sure to do your research. There |
| Adopting a dog or puppy from a shelter or a rescue | | | | are many things to consider before you decide if a |
| can cost between $100 and $250. This usually | | | | certain dog is right for you or your family. There are |
| includes shots and spaying or neutering. A small dog | | | | shelters and rescues full of pure breed dogs because |
| will obviously need a small crate and it is cheaper to | | | | the owners didn't do their homework. |
| feed a small dog. Other initial expenses include, bowls, | | | | If you and your family decide to make the |
| leash, collar, tags, license and toys. This can range in | | | | commitment, you will be happy to do whatever is |
| costs from $35 to $50. For a small dog, routine | | | | needed to keep you new family member happy and |
| veterinary care, flea and tick control, and heartworm | | | | healthy. Owning a dog or dogs is so rewarding and |
| medicine can cost as much as $300 to $500 a year. | | | | such a positive, beneficial experience it is worth the |
| Training and boarding will be additional costs and | | | | price, no matter the actual dollar amount. You will be |
| certain breeds of small dogs require regular | | | | paid back in unconditional love, devotion and fun for |
| professional grooming. | | | | many years. You will have a best friend and |
| For a medium to large size dog, 50 pounds and over, | | | | protector for your children and you will have a furry |
| it can cost as much as $500 a year for a high quality | | | | family member that will lift your spirits, no matter |
| kibble. Most of the other required expenses are | | | | how down you may feel. |