Adopting a dog changes your lifestyle. Along with the warmth and the fun that having a dog brings, it also brings financial responsibility. It is important that you plan ahead for these expenses so that you are not taken unawares. However, some dogs are less expensive to maintain than others and size plays a part. Popular small dog breeds include beagle, French bulldog, poodle, dachshund, Yorkshire terrier, Welsh corgi, shih tzu, Pomeranian, chihuahua, etc.
Adoption / Purchase
A dog can be adopted through a dog shelter and for this you have to pay an adoption fee. This is often relatively on the lower side. Adopting puppies are more expensive but older smaller dogs come for a much lower rate. You can adopt a dog and it won’t cost you more than $200 to $300.
Purchasing a purebred small dog from a breeder is also possible. However, this can be very expensive because some dogs are simply more expensive than others because of the rarity of their breed and other factors.
Food
Food is the main place where small dogs win over larger ones as far as cost is concerned. Smaller dogs require less food than larger dogs and hence are less expensive in the long run. The less the weight of the dog, the fewer calories they require. A large dog might require $1,500 annually while smaller dogs can make do with $700.
Grooming
Grooming supplies are another important expense when caring for a dog. This will depend more on the type of coat your dog has. However, small dogs such as shih tzu and chihuahua can require less grooming time, effort, and money simply because of their size. Taking into account regular grooming sessions in a salon as well as daily brushing and grooming at home, a small dog might cost approximately around $300 per year.
Vet
Vet care on a regular basis is integral to keep your dog healthy. It is important to take your little dog to the vet at least twice a year for check-ups. Annual lab works and dental cleaning must also be accounted for. In addition, vaccines for puppies and health problems for older dogs might add up the costs. Expect to pay around $200 to $400 for small dogs.
Toys
Toys are important for the psychological health of your little doggy. When you have a small dog, you have to be extra careful of the toys you purchase for them. Because they are smaller and less strong than larger dogs, they can get hurt by playing with toys made for larger breeds. If the toys are heavy, then the small dogs won’t be able to play with it either. Keep in mind that small dogs tend to be more destructive, so toys might have to be replaced regularly. Toys will cost around $50 to $100 annually.
Beds
Beds for dogs are a necessity so that your dog can have its own space. It is also helpful in helping troubled adopted dogs to feel safe. Cost of beds for smaller dogs are on the relatively lower side. You can get a really cheap bed for $20 but if you want to get a durable and comfortable bed for your pooch, budget $50 to $100. Fortunately, this is a one-time expense and only needs to be replaced once in a few years.
Training
Many small dogs require extra training because it is harder to socialise them. They tend to be less kid-friendly or cat-friendly than larger dogs as well, in general. If you are adopting your dog from a shelter, they might provide free or low-cost training. Otherwise, you might have to shell out a bit of money in order to ensure that your dog is able to handle life with you and your surroundings. This should come to around $250 but might add up if your dog requires more training.
Dog Supplies
Any dog will require a few basic supplies, including a leash and collar, food and water bowls, electronic chips or ID, crate, etc., which will basically be a one-time cost. However, small dogs might also need other things like baby gates to keep them safe and in restricted spaces. All this will add up to around $300 in basic supplies.
Pet Boarding
Pet hostels are a very essential service for dog owners. Unless you want to give up all your holidays and family get-togethers, it is a good idea to find a good pet hostel nearby. Pet hostels might cost anything from $25 for a low-cost housing to $75 per day. As the size of the dog gets larger, the boarding cost increases as well.
