Dogs are a great addition to your life and your family.  However, they are the most expensive household pet. If you’re thinking about getting a new furry friend to have around the house, here are a few costs you need to take into consideration.

The price of purchasing dogs is variable. Purebred dogs can cost as much as $4000 while others can be picked up for $250 from the SPCA. Maybe you can even get a dog for free.  However, you must think about other expenses to meet the general needs of dogs. This includes a kennel, bedding, food and water bowls, toys, and replacements for these materials as they never last forever. Owners may even need to install fencing at the house to make sure doggy doesn't get out, which can be very costly. Registering your dog with the Council at three months of age is also an annual cost that varies each year.

Veterinary costs will also ensue when getting a dog. Microchipping and de-sexing will cost around $300.00. Vaccinations will be around $150.00. Don’t forget flea and worm treatments which can cost over $200.00 per year. There may also be other veterinary costs involved that no one could predict. Injuries can happen at any time and, depending on the extent of the injury, can also be costly for owners. When it’s the dog time, there is also the cost of euthanising dogs. This cost is different between vets, but owners should expect around $50 - $100+ depending on the size of the dog.

This is dearest expense for dogs on an annual basis is the cost of food. Owners should expect to be spending between $400.00 and $700.00 per year on food, this does not include those special treats for training and other reasons.

There are also extra costs that owners may need to think about during the dog’s life. Grooming is a must for some breeds, which can range from $40 - $80 per session. If you’re planning to go away then taking your doggy to a boarding kennel may be necessary. This can cost around $30 - $100 per night depending on your dog.

Another cost a lot of owners forget about is time. Owners need to take time out of their day to walk the dog, feed it, train it, etc. Dogs cost owners a lot of time and work. If you’re a busy person who works long hours or has a household that keeps you busy, a dog might not be the best idea.

NZ Companion Animal Council estimates that a dog set owners back by around $1,686.00 per year. This cost is always much higher in the dogs first year and with the average life expectancy of 14 years, you’re looking at over $22,000 for that fury friend.  New dogs owners need to decide whether they are financially and emotionally able to support their dogs, and if not, then take some time to save for one.

27 November 2023

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