Dogs
Are Small Dogs Cheaper Than Big Ones? We Discuss
Are Small Dogs Cheaper Than Big Ones? We Discuss
In general, small dogs are cheaper to keep than big dogs. Although actually buying a dog can vary in price drastically from breed to breed, this is generally not determined by size.
This is true also for adopting dogs, as well as for veterinary treatment.
Where the real costs come for bigger dogs, though, is in buying dog supplies and food. Prices might be similar when purchasing your dog in the first place, but small dogs seem to be significantly cheaper to keep.
How much will a dog cost to buy?
To start with, buying a dog from a breeder can range massively in price, and there is a range of factors which determine this. Size tends to not come into things, it is more focused on breeds and how sought-after particular types of dogs are.
Of course, if you adopt a dog it will be much cheaper, and you will be saving a dog from a life in a kennel and giving it a loving home.
Most adoption agencies will charge a set fee to include administration costs and essential vaccinations, no matter the breed or size of the dog.
Price of pet supplies
Dog supplies such as food and water bowls, bedding, leash, toys and grooming supplies can all vary in price. However, this is an area in which small dogs tend to be cheaper.
Bigger dogs are stronger and can chew through toys much faster than small ones. Because of this, you’ll need to invest in bigger and stronger toys for your dogs.
Similarly, a leash will need to be much sturdier for a big dog as they are significantly stronger and tend to pull more.
Bigger dogs will go through things like shampoo and other products quicker than smaller dogs too. Although these are all small differences in the grand scheme of things, over time these costs will add up and make caring for a big dog more expensive.
How much do different sized dogs eat?
Every dog is unique, and depending on its health, how active it is and the kinds of food it is eating will influence how much food each dog is eating.
Make sure to discuss the recommended amounts for your dog with their vet to make sure you keep your pet as healthy as possible.
In general, big dogs will eat anything from twice as much to three times as much as small dogs, making small dogs significantly cheaper to buy for on a month-by-month basis.
How much will a trip to the vet cost?
Taking a dog to the vet can be an extremely expensive situation, especially depending on the reasons. Treating your dog for an illness or taking care of them after an injury will be expensive no matter the size.
The main factor in the price of medical treatment for dogs is any pre-existing conditions they may have and how old they are.
Medical costs are often unexpected and pricey. However, if you are to take out insurance on your dog with a company like Petsure, you are much less likely to incur these kinds of emergency medical costs anyway, and it could save you a lot of money in the long run.
The price of most pet insurance policies is determined by breed rather than size, as certain breeds of dogs have higher risks of health conditions later on in their lives.
If you’re looking to make savings in the long term on how much you are spending on your dog, a smaller breed may be a better option for you, as small dogs tend to be significantly cheaper to keep and look after than a big dog.