How Much Does It Really Cost to Own a Dog?

Thinking about getting a dog? Before you fall in love with the puppy, it is worth falling in love with the numbers first.

In this episode of Start Here, I answer a listener question about how much you should realistically budget before bringing a dog into your family.

As the very proud owner of three Labradors — Pablo, Tulip and Peppi — I know firsthand that the cost of owning a dog goes well beyond the initial purchase or adoption fee, a bag of food and a cute new bed.

According to MoneySmart, the average first year of owning a dog can cost around $4,000, with ongoing costs of up to $2,520 per year. But averages don't always capture the full financial reality of pet ownership — particularly when something unexpected happens.

In this episode, I cover:

• The upfront costs to consider before bringing your dog home

• Food, vaccinations, registration, parasite prevention and routine vet care

• Pet insurance, excesses, exclusions and annual limits

• Puppy school, dog trainers and behavioural support

• Grooming, dog walking, daycare and holiday care

• The hidden cost of puppies damaging furniture, gardens and belongings

• Why unexpected illness or injury can quickly result in substantial vet bills

• Why the breed, size and temperament of your dog can have a big impact on your budget

• How to build a pet emergency fund

• The simple “pretend pet budget” I recommend trying before you commit

I also share some of the practical ways I save money looking after Pablo, Tulip and Peppi — from washing and walking them myself, shopping around for their food and making toys, to coordinating routine vet visits and finding creative ways to manage pet sitting when we travel.

Having a dog can bring an enormous amount of love, companionship and happiness into your life. But part of being a responsible pet owner is making sure you can afford to care for them not just when everything goes right, but when something goes wrong too.

So before asking, “Can we afford to buy a dog?”, perhaps the better question is:

“Can we afford to give this dog a healthy, safe and happy home for the rest of its life?”

This episode will help you work that out before you bring your new best friend home.

General information only. Costs will vary depending on your dog, breed, location, lifestyle and individual circumstances. Speak with your vet about your pet's specific healthcare and preventative treatment needs.