Budget Guide: What You'll Really Pay for 30 Different Dog Breeds

Planning to bring a canine companion into your home? Before you fall in love with those puppy-dog eyes, it’s crucial to understand the full financial commitment—from food and shelter to veterinary care over the dog’s entire lifespan.

The Real Cost of Dog Ownership

Many people focus only on the initial purchase price, but that’s just the beginning. Healthcare expenses can easily surpass the upfront cost, sometimes by several times over. Let’s break down what 30 popular breeds will actually set you back.

Budget-Friendly Pups: Under $700

If affordability is your priority, consider these options. Redbone Coonhounds run just $500-$800 to purchase and carry minimal lifetime healthcare costs of around $1,500, living 12-14 years. Black and Tan Coonhounds ($400-$800) and American Foxhounds ($500-$700) offer similar economy packages. Treeing Walker Coonhounds and Plott Hounds both start at $400-$800 with healthcare needs under $3,000 over their 12-14 year lifespans.

Mid-Range Breeds: $800-$1,500

This sweet spot offers solid options without breaking the bank. Manchester Terriers ($500-$1,000) need about $10,500 in lifetime healthcare—one of the pricier categories—due to cataracts and patellar issues. Irish Terriers ($1,500-$2,500) are surprisingly affordable on healthcare at just $1,000 lifetime minimum. Border Collies and Beagles both hover around $800-$1,500 purchase price, though Beagles require up to $7,700 in healthcare due to spinal problems and ear infections.

The Weiner Dog Reality

Dachshunds, affectionately known as weiner dogs, cost $800-$1,500 to purchase but here’s the catch: expect to budget $7,300 minimum for back-related medical issues over their 12-15 year lifespan. Their elongated spine makes them prone to expensive spinal problems, making them costlier than their small size suggests.

Premium Breeds: $1,500-$2,500+

Schipperkes ($1,200-$2,000) develop eye and autoimmune issues requiring $7,200 in care. Otterhounds ($1,500-$2,500) face hip dysplasia and epilepsy expenses totaling $3,500. Field Spaniels ($2,000-$5,000) are pricier upfront but have modest healthcare needs around $2,300. Affenpinschers ($1,800-$2,500) and Pekingese ($1,500-$3,000) both require $3,000+ in lifetime medical care.

High-Maintenance Healthcare Profiles

Pugs ($800-$1,500 purchase) demand an eye-watering $9,600 in minimum lifetime healthcare costs, the highest on this list. Chihuahuas ($800-$2,500) require $5,500 despite their tiny frame. American Pit Bull Terriers ($500-$1,000) need $5,100 due to hip dysplasia and bloat issues.

Healthier, Budget-Conscious Breeds

Rat Terriers top the affordability rankings: just $600-$1,200 purchase price, $1,500 minimum healthcare, and 15-18 year lifespans. Dalmatians ($1,000-$1,600) need minimal healthcare ($700) despite genetic deafness risk. German Wirehaired Pointers ($800-$1,200) and Cesky Terriers ($1,200-$2,500) both stay under $2,000 in lifetime medical costs.

Making Your Decision

The cheapest dog to purchase isn’t always the cheapest to own. A $400 hound might cost $1,500 in healthcare, while a $1,500 breed might need $9,600. Consider your budget for both initial investment and the next 10-15 years of veterinary care, including genetic predispositions specific to each breed. Adoption can also sidestep the highest purchase prices while still providing a loving family member.