Bringing home a new pet is exciting, and it's easy to underestimate what the first year will cost. The first year is usually the most expensive, because you're buying supplies and paying for vaccinations and spaying or neutering on top of everyday costs.
Prices vary a lot by where you live, your pet's size and breed, and the choices you make, so use this as a checklist and ask local providers for prices.
One-time costs
- Adoption or purchase: shelter adoption fees often include vaccinations, a microchip and spaying or neutering, which can make adoption excellent value. Buying from a breeder usually costs much more.
- Spaying or neutering: if it isn't included, ask your vet and local shelters, which sometimes offer low-cost clinics.
- Microchip: a one-time cost, often included in adoption.
- Supplies: bed, crate or carrier, bowls, collar and leash, ID tag, toys, grooming tools, and a litter tray and scratching post for cats.
Vet care
- First checkups and vaccinations: puppies and kittens need a series of vaccinations in their first months.
- Parasite prevention: flea, tick and heartworm prevention, usually given monthly.
- Annual checkup: a yearly exam, plus any boosters due.
- Unexpected visits: upset stomachs, ear infections and minor injuries are common in the first year. It's worth setting money aside.
Everyday costs
- Food: the biggest ongoing cost for most pets. Large dogs eat much more than cats or small dogs.
- Treats and chews
- Litter, for cats
- Toys, which puppies in particular get through quickly
Optional but common
- Pet insurance: a monthly premium that can protect you from large vet bills. See our guide, Is pet insurance worth it?, and compare insurers on our pet insurance page.
- Grooming: some breeds need professional grooming every few weeks.
- Training classes: puppy classes help with socializing and basic manners.
- Boarding, sitters or daycare when you travel or work long hours.
- Dog walking
How to keep costs down
- Adopt from a shelter, where fees often include vaccinations and spaying or neutering.
- Keep up with preventive care. Vaccinations, parasite prevention and dental care cost much less than treating the problems they prevent.
- Learn basic grooming at home, such as brushing and nail trims, between professional visits.
- Compare prices for vets, groomers and boarding.
- Build an emergency fund, or get insurance, so a sudden bill doesn't force a hard choice.
Find vets, groomers, dog trainers and pet stores near you to compare prices locally.