The Cost of Owning a Medium-Sized Dog: A Complete Breakdown

Written by PetCalc Editors

Published 2024-12-13

Costs of owning a medium size dog

Owning a medium-sized dog offers the perfect balance between a smaller, low-maintenance breed and a larger, more demanding dog. However, medium-sized dogs also come with their own set of costs that should be carefully considered before bringing one into your home. In this guide, we'll break down the key expenses of owning a medium-sized dog, from food and veterinary care to grooming, pet insurance, and other essential costs. We'll also share links to helpful resources and products that can help you manage your dog’s expenses.

Table of Contents

Initial Costs of Owning a Medium-Sized Dog

Before your medium-sized dog settles into their new home, there are a few one-time expenses you’ll need to account for. These initial costs can vary, depending on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder.

1. Adoption/Purchase Fees

  • Adoption: Fees for adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue typically range from $50 to $200 , often including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping

  • Buying from a Breeder: Medium-sized dogs from breeders can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500 , depending on the breed, lineage, and other factors

2. Essential Supplies

  • Dog Bed: Medium-sized dog beds generally cost between $30 and $100 . Make sure to pick a durable and comfortable option. (Example: Petco Medium Dog Beds )

  • Crate or Carrier: A crate suitable for a medium-sized dog typically costs around $50 to $100 (Example: PetSmart Crates )

  • Toys and Accessories: You’ll likely spend around $20 to $50 on toys and grooming accessories when first bringing your dog home

Recurring Costs: Annual Expenses

Medium-sized dogs have ongoing costs for food, medical care, grooming, and insurance. Here’s a breakdown of typical annual expenses:

1. Food

Medium dogs tend to have moderate food costs compared to smaller or larger breeds. On average, you can expect to spend between $300 and $600 annually on food. Here are some high-quality food options to consider:

  • Hill’s Science Diet Adult Medium Breed: Approximately $50 for a 15-lb bag . (Available at Chewy)

  • Royal Canin Medium Adult Formula: Costs around $55 for a 15-lb bag (Available at Chewy )

2. Vet Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining your dog’s health. Annual vet visits, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and general wellness checks can cost between $300 and $600 per year. Here's a general breakdown:

  • Annual Wellness Exam: Typically costs $50 to $100

  • Vaccinations: Can range from $50 to $150 , depending on your dog’s needs

  • Flea/Tick Prevention: Monthly treatments cost about $20 to $50 per month, totaling $240 to $600 annually (Example: Frontline Plus for Medium Dogs)

3. Grooming

Medium dogs may require regular grooming, especially if they have longer coats. Grooming costs for medium-sized dogs range from **$300 to $700** annually, depending on the breed and grooming needs. Some options include:

  • At-Home Grooming Kits: If you're considering grooming your dog yourself, you can purchase a grooming kit for $30 to $70 (Example: Andis Pro Pet Clipper Kit )

4. Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is an important part of your dog’s health care plan. For medium-sized dogs, expect to pay between $400 and $800 annually for pet insurance. This will help cover unexpected medical expenses, including accidents, illnesses, and emergencies. Here are a couple of pet insurance options:

  • Trupanion Pet Insurance: Offers comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses. (Visit Trupanion

  • Embrace Pet Insurance: Offers flexible plans for medium dogs, including wellness care coverage. (Visit Embrace Pet Insurance )

Hidden and Unexpected Costs

While you may expect routine expenses, there are always hidden costs when it comes to dog ownership. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Emergency Vet Visits: Unexpected injuries or illnesses can result in significant medical bills. These can range from $100 to $2,000 or more, depending on the severity

  • Boarding: If you travel frequently, boarding your dog may cost between $20 and $60 per night

  • Training: Medium dogs often benefit from obedience training. Professional training sessions can cost between $50 and $200 per session depending on the trainer and location.

How to Save on Medium Dog Expenses

Owning a medium dog can be affordable if you take a few steps to save:

  • Buy in Bulk: Purchasing dog food, grooming supplies, and flea treatments in bulk can help you save on annual costs. Websites like Chewy often offer discounts for bulk purchases

  • DIY Grooming: Learn how to groom your medium dog at home to reduce grooming costs. Invest in a good-quality grooming kit for long-term savings

  • Shop for Insurance: Compare different pet insurance providers to find the best coverage for your medium dog at an affordable price

Helpful Resources

By understanding the costs involved with owning a medium-sized dog, you can better prepare for the financial responsibility that comes with pet ownership. Whether you're a first-time dog owner or have experience with dogs, proper planning will ensure that your medium-sized dog has a long and happy life with you.