How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Dog?

Know someone who adopted a dog? Ask them about their decision to adopt, and they'll likely say it was one of the best choices they've ever made. Our furry friends would agree (if they could talk, that is). But as a prospective pet parent, you might be curious - or even worried - about the cost of dog adoption. Before you head to your local shelter or rescue, you first need to consider costs.

Suppose you've been considering adopting a dog. You'll already know that there is not just an upfront fee but other expenses come with your new furry family member. Between vaccinations, microchipping, leashes, feeding bowls, vet check-ups, and other essentials, the total cost of dog adoption and first-year (plus ongoing) care are all things you should consider.

Adopting a dog is a huge and wonderful commitment that will change your life in the best way possible! But it's important to make sure that your budget can support your new furry friend. So, we've compiled a breakdown of the expenses that you should plan for when adopting a dog.

The Upfront Cost of Dog Adoption

From everyday essentials to ad-hoc purchases throughout the year, keeping your dog healthy and happy is a long-term financial commitment. But what about the additional cost of adoption, and what does that figure look like when you're first setting up?

Adoption fees

One of the initial costs of adopting a dog is the adoption fee. Each shelter or rescue will charge an adoption fee, to be paid before you take your furry friend home. The details of what is included within that fee differ depending on where you adopt from, so it's a good idea for prospective pet parents to ask what's included in the adoption fee before making the commitment. Typically, this will cover any veterinary costs to prepare your new pup to go home with you,which usually entails:

• A wellness exam
• Vaccinations for things such as distemper, parvovirus, rabies and Bordetella, which helps to prevent kennel cough
• A heartworm test and preventative treatment
• A fecal test and deworming
• Flea and tick preventive treatment (depending on the center, this could be for a month or more, so don’t forget to ask)
• Microchipping
• A small admin fee to cover the cost of processing the adoption paperwork

Why Do Dog Adoption Fees Vary?

When it comes to adopting a dog, there is no “one size fits all” cost. Adoption fees vary at shelters and rescues with each having their own rules and benchmark costs. But that isn't the only variable factor; there are a few other details which could affect the price you pay:

Location, location, location:

If you live in an area where the cost of living is relatively high, the cost of adopting a dog is likely to be higher. One reason is that the fee covers rescue and shelters' expenses while caring for dogs waiting to be adopted, such as veterinary care. If the cost for those services is higher where you live, the fee to cover those costs will be higher too.

The age of the adopted dog:

The age of the dog you're hoping to take home can have an impact on the adoption fee you'll pay. If your heart is set on adopting a puppy,  there may be higher veterinary expenses due to vaccinations and setting them up for life. Puppies are also always in demand, which could result in a higher dog adoption fee.

When you choose to adopt:

Even the time of year can influence the amount you pay. We've all heard the saying, "A dog is not just for Christmas", but that is when many shelter and rescue organizations offer reduced fees or even free adoptions, likely tapping into the holiday spirit of generosity to increase the chance of as many dogs finding a loving home as possible.

Tip:

Follow your local shelters and rescues on social media and watch for announcements on discounted adoption fees to cut back on the upfront cost. While many "deals" take place in December, discounted fees could take place several times a year, so keep checking in. 

Here at PEDIGREE®, we occasionally host adoption drive events, designed to help you find your paw-fect match. We know how much of a difference adopting a dog can make, for both the owner and the pooch, so that’s why we also run initiatives to reimburse adoption fees on a national scale such as our 2023  PEDIGREE® Shelter Sunday event and our One True Loyalty Program in partnership with Dollar General. Through our One True Loyalty Program, when you buy $25 or more worth of eligible PEDIGREE® dog food and treats at Dollar General, PEDIGREE® will cover the adoption fee for your dog.

Grabbing all the essentials

When people inquire about the cost of dog adoption, they usually ask about the initial price tag and forget to add the cost of the supplies they'll need in the days and weeks ahead. While the cost is not associated with the actual adoption process, it is still money you need to account for when bringing home your new family member.

Though the specifics can vary depending on the individual needs of your dog and their size, your essential checklist should include these few basic items:

• A crate for training
• A comfortable bed
• Food and water bowls
• Leash and collar (Check out these finds from PEDIGREE Foundation Dogs rule.(open in new tab)® store! *All Dogs rule.® store purchases support PEDIGREE Foundation, a separate 501c3.)
• Poop bags and dispenser
• Training pads
• Treats—both for training and for fun!
• Toys

Of course, you'll also need food for your new dog. Ask the shelter or rescue about your dog's current eating preferences and habits and buy the same food if possible. This will help to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach and introducing too much change all at once. You can slowly transition your dog's diet later if needed.

Veterinary Care and Vaccinations

Adopting a dog is an exciting new adventure, but it also comes with costs to be aware of upfront. The initial adoption fee typically covers essential vaccinations and microchipping to get your new furry friend off to a healthy start. But your dog will need follow-up vaccinations and regular vet check-ups to assess their health and wellness. Core vaccinations like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus should be administered within the first year, with boosters every 1-3 years after that, depending on your vet's recommendation. Annual check-ups are also important to check for any medical issues, but veterinary costs can vary depending on your location. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital, annual check-ups could cost between $75-$200 per visit. To find out more about the veterinary costs in your area, use the Banfield Pet Hospital’s handy Price Estimator(Open in a new tab).

Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention will also need to be purchased regularly. According to the ASPCA, this cost an average of $185 (Open in a new tab)in 2021. It may seem like a lot, but preventing these parasites and diseases will save money in the long run and ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.

Additional Costs Of Adopting A Dog

The costs don't stop once you adopt your new furry friend. Owning a dog isn't just an emotional commitment, it's a financial one too. To care for them properly, here are some of the essential annual expenses to budget for:

Food:

You'll need to feed your dog nutritious food suited for their age, size, and activity level. Whether your pooch prefers dry food, wet food or a combination of both, PEDIGREE® has a wide range of dog food in yummy flavors that your dog will love. Remember dog treats and the occasional chew toy to keep them entertained!

Medical care:

It’s good to plan and/or budget for annual pet care expenses, including check-ups, vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, and emergency care should your dog need it. Pet insurance or a wellness plan like the Banfield Optimum Wellness Plan can help with unexpected costs for unforeseen injuries or illnesses. For more detailed pricing information tailored to your location, you can explore Banfield's website based on your zip code.

Grooming:

Though this will depend on their coat, health, and lifestyle, most dogs require regular grooming. This means your furry friend might be making quite a few trips for a little pampering. You'll also need basic grooming tools to brush and bathe them at home. You can even make dental care easier with PEDIGREE® DENTASTIX treats, which are clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup and have a unique chewy texture your dog will love.

Boarding or daycare:

If you go away on vacation or need someone to watch your dog during the day, boarding and daycare fees apply. According to 2021 price estimates(Open in a new tab) from the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA), most kennels will charge somewhere between $22 to upwards of $60 a night to board your dog. Meanwhile, Yelp reports(Open in a new tab) that the average cost of doggy daycare is $30 to $35 per day.

Toys and accessories:

You'll want to keep your dog entertained with interactive dog toys that can vary in price depending on the quality and where you purchase them. Key accessories such as collars, leashes, beds, and bowls will also need to be replaced over time. 

Training (optional):

Investing in training for your dog in the first year is important - basic training and socialization at a young age will help ensure you have a well-behaved family member for years to come. According to The Academy of Pet Careers(Open in a new tab), puppy training classes usually cost between $15 and $125 per session, while basic obedience training for adult dogs may range from $500 to $3,000 for multi-week programs. The overall cost will depend on the duration of training but as a rule, group classes are often more budget-friendly compared to private lessons. 

Make sure to research estimated costs, set a budget, and start saving to make sure you can properly care for your new furry friend during that critical first year.

Tips for Saving Money as a New Dog Owner

As a responsible pet owner, there are several tips to keep in mind to save money caring for your dog.

Buy nutritious dog food in bulk: 

Purchasing a large bag of kibble will save you money in the long run versus buying small bags. PEDIGREE® dry dog food is available in value sizes to ensure you get the best deal. Simply store any extra food in an airtight container.

Swap the salon for grooming at home:

Bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are all ways you can clean your dog at home to save on professional grooming costs. Invest in quality grooming tools and do some research on proper techniques. Only take your dog to a groomer for services you can't do yourself, like haircuts.

Invest in well-made, durable toys:

Instead of frequently buying new toys, choose durable options that will last, such as rubber balls and bones, and puzzle toys that can be filled with treats. Rotate your dog's toys to make them seem new again. It’s a good idea to regularly check your dog's toys for wear and tear and supervise new toys to ensure they aren't easily destroyed, such as plush toys. 

Shop sales and use coupons:

Check sites for the best prices on essentials like grooming supplies, and other pet products. Use online coupon codes and sign up for store loyalty programs to save on future purchases. Buy in bulk when possible and stock up during sales.

Ask about insurance and wellness plans:

Pet insurance and vet clinic wellness plans can make routine and unexpected vet care more affordable. Compare plans to find one that suits your needs and budget. Even if you don't use a plan for every visit, it can save you money in an emergency.

With some upfront planning and the right mindset, you'll be pinching pennies like a pro in no time and giving your new furry family member the best care possible. Saving money as a responsible pet owner involves making practical choices and sticking to a budget.

Preparation Makes Paw-fect

While the total cost of dog adoption and ownership can be daunting, the rewards of bringing a new canine companion into your life are priceless. If you go into dog adoption with realistic expectations about the responsibility - both financial and otherwise - it can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Do your research, set a budget, ask questions, and make sure you find a dog that fits your lifestyle. 

Remember, when you adopt a dog, you're not just giving them a home, you're gaining a loyal friend who will bring endless joy, love, and adventure to your life for years to come.