The Cost of Owning a Small Dog: A Complete Breakdown

Written by PetCalc Editors

Published 2024-12-21

Costs of owning a small dog

Owning a small dog is a fantastic experience, but it's important to understand the financial commitment that comes with it. From food and veterinary care to grooming and pet insurance, each aspect of small dog ownership comes with its own set of costs. In this guide, we'll break down the typical expenses you can expect when owning a small dog, and offer resources to help you plan and budget.

Table of Contents

Initial Costs of Owning a Small Dog

Before bringing a small dog into your home, there are a few one-time initial costs to consider. These can range widely depending on factors like the breed, whether you adopt or purchase from a breeder, and the supplies you need to get started.

1. Adoption/Purchase Fees

  • Adoption: If you adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue organization, adoption fees usually range from $50 to $200 . This often includes spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.

  • Buying from a Breeder: Purebred dogs from breeders can be significantly more expensive, ranging from $500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the breed.

2. Essential Supplies

  • Dog Bed: Small dog beds typically cost between $20 and $50 . Look for a comfortable and supportive option for your dog’s size and sleeping habits. (Example: Petco Small Dog Beds )

  • Crate or Carrier: A crate or carrier for travel and training costs around $30 to $70 for a small breed. (Example: PetSmart Dog Crates )

  • Toys and Accessories: Expect to spend around $20 to $40 for toys and grooming tools to keep your small dog entertained and well-groomed.

Recurring Costs: Annual Expenses

While initial costs are important, the ongoing expenses are the ones you’ll need to budget for every year. Here's a breakdown of typical annual costs for owning a small dog:

1. Food

Small dogs eat less, which means food costs are generally lower than for larger dogs. On average, you can expect to spend between $150 and $350 per year on dog food. Be sure to choose high-quality food that suits your dog’s dietary needs. Some great options include:

  • Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws: Around $40 for a 15-lb bag . (Available on Chewy )

  • Royal Canin Small Adult Formula: Around $50 for a 14-lb bag . (Available on Chewy )

2. Vet Care

Regular veterinary care is essential to keeping your small dog healthy. Annual check-ups, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and other routine medical expenses can range from $200 to $400 per year. Small dogs are generally healthier than larger breeds, so you may save on some costs, but it’s still important to have a budget for things like:

  • Annual Wellness Exam: Typically $50 to $100

  • Vaccinations: Can cost around $50 to $150 depending on the vaccines required

  • Flea/Tick Prevention: Monthly treatments can cost around $20 to $40 each month, or $240 to $480 annually. (Example: Frontline Plus for Small Dogs )

3. Grooming

Grooming is another important ongoing expense. Many small dogs require regular grooming, either at home or through a professional groomer. On average, grooming costs range from $200 to $500 annually, depending on your dog’s coat type and grooming needs.

  • At-Home Grooming Kits: If you plan to groom your dog yourself, you can purchase a grooming kit for $20 to $50 . (Example: Andis Clipper Kit )

4. Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is a great way to manage unexpected medical expenses. For small dogs, insurance typically costs between $200 and $400 annually, depending on the plan and coverage. Some well-regarded insurance providers include:

  • Healthy Paws Pet Insurance: Offers comprehensive coverage and has flexible plans for small dogs. (Visit Healthy Paws )

  • Petplan: Provides extensive coverage for both accidents and illnesses. (Visit Petplan )

Hidden and Unexpected Costs

While the regular costs above will give you a good idea of what to expect, there are some hidden costs that may arise over time:

  • Emergency Vet Visits: These can be costly, especially if your dog gets sick or injured unexpectedly. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $2,000 depending on the nature of the emergency.

  • Boarding: If you travel often, you may need to board your small dog, which can cost around $20 to $50 per night at most boarding facilities

  • Training: Some small dogs may require obedience training or behavioral modification, which can cost between $50 to $200 per session.

How to Save on Small Dog Expenses

Owning a small dog doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips to help reduce costs:

  • Buy in Bulk: Purchase food and grooming products in bulk to save money. Online retailers like Chewy often offer discounts when you buy in larger quantities

  • Home Grooming: If you have a small dog with a manageable coat, try grooming your dog at home. Invest in a good grooming kit and save on professional grooming costs

  • Pet Insurance: Shop around for the best insurance plan to fit your budget. Having insurance can help you save on unexpected medical expenses in the long run

Helpful Resources

By understanding the full cost of owning a small dog, you can better prepare for the expenses involved and ensure that your pet gets the care it deserves. Whether you're a new dog parent or planning to adopt a small dog soon, budgeting for pet care is essential to a long and happy life together.