With all that in mind, the initial cost of getting a dog in 2020 can range from $1,315-$3,290 up front, including everything from adoption fees and spay/neuter surgery, to toys, treats, and more. …

“Forbes” put the costs of dog ownership at quite a bit higher. Including all possible expenses, they estimate the lifetime cost of a dog to be anywhere from $17,650 a year to a staggering $93,520, depending on size, breed, and services required.

In 2020, the annual cost of caring for a dog in Canada amounted to 3,500 Canadian dollars. Canadian dog owners’ highest expenses included food, pet insurance, and professional dental care, respectively.

Medical Costs The average vet visit can be anywhere from $50 to $400, while dental care runs about the same. Vitamins are usually around $100 per year, and preventative medication for fleas and heartworms are each around $20 per month.

How much does a fresh dog food diet actually cost?

Here are 5 things to think about when trying to care for a pet on a budget:

1. Adopt, but demand a guarantee.
2. Control veterinary expenses.
3. Don’t go overboard on pet toys.
4. Learn to groom your own pet.
5. Feed your pet right.

How to Save Money on Your Dog

1. Buy Quality Food. It’s best not to be too cheap when it comes to food.
2. Choose an Affordable Vet.
3. Find Cheap Toys.
4. Consider Puppy Insurance.
5. Start Training Right Away.
6. Use Pet Sitting Websites.
7. Bulk Up Your Emergency Fund.

Here’s how to prepare.

1. Start a puppy fund. When it comes to things you want, you have to save for them.
2. Be realistic about the cost of owning a dog. Like anything else you spend money on, you need to add it to your budget.
3. Understand hidden costs.
4. Create a puppy emergency fund.
5. Consider pet insurance.
6. Bottom line.