There are a number of expenses that come with owning a dog, and it is important that you know what all of them are before making a final decision of any kind. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and it’s one that not every person can handle.
The cost of food is going to be one of the most significant expenses that comes with owning a dog. You will pay at least around $125 for food for your dog each year, though it could end up being as much as $500 depending on the type of food you buy as well as your dog’s dietary needs.
Vaccinations will be another expensive that you will have to take into consideration. All dogs need to get their vaccinations, and it is an expense that will last their entire lifetime. It is crucial that your dog get vaccinated for a number of things so they can stay happy and healthy for as long as possible. These shots will cost you anywhere from $10-$100 each year.
You will also have to pay for trips to the veterinarian, whether it is for shots, checkups, or any other problems that your dog may have. These bills can range from $40 to $400 per year, depending on what the overall health of your pet is like. It’s important that you set aside some money for vet visits so you don’t come up short if you need to take your dog in.
It’s also going to be important that you spend money on toys for your dog to play with. If you don’t provide your dog with toys, they will just end up chewing up your shoes, furniture, and anything else in your home. After a while your dogs toys will get worn out, so you will need to buy them new ones.
There are also grooming costs to consider, as you will definitely want to keep your dog clean and hygienic. While it is true that you can bath and groom your dog at home, it’s always a good idea to go to a pet store or vet for these services so they will be done properly and thoroughly. You will need to get your dog’s nails clipped every once in a while, which is also a service that many pet stores and veterinarians offer.
If you want your dog to be well-behaved, it is important that you also pay for training services. By getting your dog trained by a professional you will not have to worry about it barking all the time or tearing up your house. There are lots of different pet trainers that you will have to choose from, and most of them are not cheap.
Dental care services are essential for most dogs, as they are susceptible to the same kinds of oral diseases as humans. It is very important that you take your dog into the vet to get their teeth looked at and cleaned every once in a while so they don’t develop any health problems later on.
By taking the time to consider all of the above listed lifelong costs of owning a dog, you will be able to make a good decision as to whether or not this is the right decision for you. It’s important to consider the fact that owning a dog is a lot of work and it can get expensive. If you don’t think you have the financial means to take care of a dog, you will definitely want to think again about making this big decision.
