Are you planning to bring a furry bundle of joy to your house? Great!
However, as cute as puppies are, let’s agree that you cannot consider buying one without thinking about what it’ll cost you initially as well as in the long run.
After all, a puppy is a lifelong responsibility, and you wouldn’t want to abandon it just because you cannot afford its expenses anymore.
So, to help you out, we present you with a guide that’ll give you an idea of the costs you’ll face when buying a dog for sale in Adelaide.
Let’s get started.
How Much is a Puppy in Adelaide Worth?
Before talking about the expenses of having a furry pal, let’s first understand – how much the puppy will cost you. According to research conducted by Canstar, if you’re looking to buy a designer or popular breed like the Cavoodle, it can cost you around $2,500 to $5000.
On the other hand, dogs like the German Shepherd may start from anywhere around $1,300. However, there’s no fixed chart as to which dog costs what. Factors such as the individual breeder, the breed of the dog, etc., may influence the cost of puppies for sale in Adelaide.
Breakdown of the Major Costs of Owning a Dog
Now, without further ado, let’s get to the point and understand the expenses of owning a puppy.
1. Food:
Feeding your furry friend is an expense that you’ll encounter throughout their life. The cost of dog food can vary based on several factors such as the size, age, as well as any dietary requirements they might have.
On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $60 per month ($240 to $720 per year) on dog food, with premium brands often costing more.
Keep in mind that the nutritional needs of your dog may change as they grow older or if they develop any health issues in the future. So, it’s essential to be flexible with your budget and consult with your veterinarian for guidance on the best diet for your pup.
2. Grooming:
Grooming your furry friend is one of the most important aspects of pet care. This ensures that your furry pal stays healthy and looks their absolute best. The cost of grooming can vary depending on various factors, such as the breed and the coat of the dog.
Basic grooming tasks like regular baths, brushing, and nail trimming can typically cost anywhere from $30 to $90 per session, depending on the size of your pooch and the groomer’s rates.
However, breeds that require specialised grooming, such as poodles or shih tzus, can expect to pay more for services like haircuts, styling, and de-matting.
While professional grooming is recommended every 4-8 weeks for most breeds, you can also save money by learning simple grooming tasks at home with the right tools and techniques.
| Note: It’s recommended that you do not try to perform complex grooming tasks like de-matting at home, as it can also injure your dog. Instead, opt for professional groomers who are trained to tackle complicated tasks. |
3. Pet Essentials:
There are many things that you’ll need to buy for your puppy. Some of the essential items that you’ll need, along with their approximate cost, are mentioned below:
| Essential Items | Cost Estimate |
| Food and Water Bowls | $5 to $25 |
| Collar/ Harness | $15 to $65 |
| Leash | $15 to $45 |
| Dog Bed | $50 to $200 |
| Toys | $5 to $50 |
| Crates | $50 to $250 |
| Treats | $5 to $20 |
4. Medical Care:
One of the most important aspects of owning a dog is the medical care that it needs. So, ignoring these expenses is certainly not an option. Now, let’s understand the medical expenses that you’ll have to incur.
Routine Care & Vaccination:
Annual check-ups can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the veterinary clinic and the services included. On the other hand, vaccinations typically range from $50 to $150 per year, with additional costs for special vaccines like kennel cough or canine influenza.
Preventive Medications:
Medications such as flea, tick and heartworm preventives can add up to around $100 to $500 annually, depending on the size of your dog and age of your dog.
Unexpected Medical Expenses:
It’s important not to overlook the potential for unexpected expenses, such as emergency vet visits or treatment for illnesses or injuries. The cost of an emergency vet visit can start from as low as $50 to as high as $5000.
However, having pet insurance can help mitigate these costs, with premiums typically ranging from $20 to $50 or more per month, depending on the coverage and your dog’s age and breed.
Are There Any Other Expenses?
While we have covered everything you need to know about the major costs of owning a dog in Adelaide, there are some other expenses that you would want to consider as well.
For instance, to help your pup learn basic obedience commands or address behavioural issues, you may want to enrol him in training classes or private sessions. The cost of this depends on the trainer and the duration of the program. On average, you can expect to spend around $50 to $150 per session or more.
Apart from this, you should also budget for occasional extras like boarding or pet-sitting fees, especially if you’re a frequent traveller. These costs can vary widely depending on the provider and the level of service you choose. These typically range from $100 to $500 annually.
Considering the Expenses, Is Owning a Dog Worth It?
Absolutely! While the costs of owning a dog in Adelaide may seem daunting at first, the joy, companionship, and love that a furry friend brings into your life far outweigh the costs.
The bond formed with a dog is priceless, offering companionship, emotional support, and a sense of purpose. And, with proper planning and budgeting, the expenses of dog ownership can be managed.
Ultimately, the enrichment and happiness a dog brings to your life makes the investment well worth it for most people in Adelaide and beyond.
