The Cost of Owning a Large Dog: A Complete Breakdown

Written by PetCalc Editors

Published 2024-12-24

Costs of owning a large dog

Owning a large dog comes with plenty of rewards — they’re loyal, protective, and often great companions for active families. However, large dogs also bring a higher price tag when it comes to food, healthcare, grooming, and general maintenance. Understanding the costs of owning a large dog will help you plan ahead and budget effectively.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the major expenses associated with owning a large dog, including food, medical care, grooming, and insurance. Additionally, we’ll share some useful resources and tips to help you manage these costs.

Table of Contents

Initial Costs of Owning a Large Dog

When adopting or purchasing a large dog, you’ll face several one-time initial costs. These can vary based on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder, as well as the breed you choose.

1. Adoption/Purchase Fees

  • Adoption: Adopting a large dog from a shelter typically costs between $100 to $300 and may include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.

  • Buying from a Breeder : Large dog breeds bought from breeders can range from $500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the breed, pedigree, and location.

2. Essential Supplies

  • Dog Bed: Large dog beds are a must-have for comfort and support. Expect to spend between $50 and $150 for a durable bed. (Example: Petco Large Dog Beds )

  • Crate or Kennel: A crate suitable for large dogs typically costs between $80 and $200 . (Example: PetSmart Large Dog Crates )

  • Toys and Accessories: You'll likely spend around $30 to $75 on toys, leashes, collars, and grooming tools.

Recurring Costs: Annual Expenses

Owning a large dog means higher recurring costs across food, vet care, grooming, and insurance. Below is a breakdown of these costs:

1. Food

Large dogs consume more food than small or medium dogs, which can significantly increase your annual expenses. Expect to spend between $600 and $1,200 annually on food. The price can vary based on the quality and brand of dog food you choose. Here are some examples of highly rated options:

  • Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Adult: Around $60 for a 30-lb bag . (Available on Chewy )

  • Royal Canin Large Breed Adult: Approximately $70 for a 30-lb bag . (Available on Chewy )

2. Vet Care

Veterinary expenses for large dogs are generally higher compared to smaller breeds due to the increased risk of joint and bone problems, as well as potential health issues related to their size. Plan on spending between $400 and $800 annually for routine vet care, including:

  • Annual Wellness Exam: Typically $75 to $150 .

  • Vaccinations: Can cost between $75 and $200 annually.

  • Flea/Tick Prevention: Large dogs require higher doses of flea and tick preventatives, which can range from $30 to $60 per month, or $360 to $720 annually. (Example: Frontline Plus for Large Dogs

3. Grooming

Many large dogs, especially those with thick or long coats, require regular grooming. Grooming costs can range between $400 and $800 annually depending on the breed and how often you choose to groom your dog. For dogs that require less maintenance, at-home grooming can save you money. Consider these options:

4. Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is a valuable investment to help cover unexpected medical expenses. For large dogs, the premiums can be higher due to the increased risk of health problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Annual pet insurance costs for large dogs typically range between $500 and $1,200 . Here are some options:

  • Healthy Paws Pet Insurance: Offers plans with coverage for accidents, illnesses, and emergency care. (Visit Healthy Paws )

  • Petplan Pet Insurance: Known for offering comprehensive plans that cover both preventive care and emergencies. (Visit Petplan

Hidden and Unexpected Costs

While the ongoing costs are essential, there are also unexpected costs that may arise during your dog’s life:

  • Emergency Vet Visits: Large dogs are more prone to injuries and illnesses that require urgent care. Emergency vet visits can cost anywhere from $200 to $3,000 depending on the severity of the issue.

  • Boarding: If you travel often, boarding your large dog will likely cost between $30 and $75 per night .

  • Training: Large dogs can sometimes require professional training, especially if they are strong-willed. Training sessions generally cost between $50 and $200 per session.

How to Save on Large Dog Expenses

Owning a large dog doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Here are a few tips to help reduce costs:

  • Buy in Bulk: Purchasing dog food, treats, and supplies in bulk can help save money over time. Retailers like Chewy offer bulk discounts.

  • DIY Grooming: Learn how to groom your dog at home with the right tools, and save on grooming services.

  • Pet Insurance: Shop around for the best pet insurance plan to fit your needs and budget. While premiums for large dogs can be higher, they can save you significant amounts in the event of an emergency.

Helpful Resources

Conclusion

Owning a large dog can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the financial commitment. From higher food costs to increased veterinary care, grooming, and insurance, large dogs often require more attention and a bigger budget. By understanding the costs upfront and planning accordingly, you can ensure your large dog lives a happy, healthy life by your side.