By freelance writer Erica Loop
You’re itching to get a playful pup, but need a pet that’s also easy on your wallet? Does this mean that “cheap dogs” are the category du jour when it comes to the pick of the canines?
While some dogs come with very little or no upfront fees, they may have a hefty price tag as time goes on. From grooming to obedience training, some pups require a greater investment than others.
Before you cross any breed off your list, check out these budget-friendly pooches that are low on the long-term costs.
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1. Greyhound
These super-sleek dogs are low on grooming needs, according to the National Greyhound Adoption Program (NGAP). This makes their care and upkeep easy on your wallet.Â
2. Bull Terriers
They’re canines with character and have fairly few hereditary conditions attached to their breed, according to the Bull Terrier Club. This lowers your vet bill, in comparison to dogs who are prone to chronic medical issues.
3. Weimaraner
With short fur, these dogs won’t continuously cost you grooming fees. Weimaraners are also easy to train, notes the American Kennel Club (AKC). Less time in “doggie school” equals less costs to you.
4. Collie
Even though no one can guarantee the complete health of your pet, the Collie Rescue Network notes that this breed has few genetic medical problems and are likely to only need an annual check-up. One visit per year keeps your medical costs to a bare minimum.
5. Beagle
A hardy dog, the beagle won’t take your credit card on a trip to the vet every month. It’s also low on grooming and only needs one meal a day, according to The Beagle Club.
6. Chihuahua
Why spend your savings on a home and backyard maintenance just to fit your larger-than-life pup? This teeny tiny breed can live in a studio apartment without much fuss.
7. Dachshund
What’s one advantage to owning a dachshund? They’re light on shedding. Not only does this nix trips to the groomer, but it means that you can keep your furniture and clothes fur-free without having to pay extra cleaning costs.
8. Bichon Frise
Another low-shedder, these pups are hypoallergenic according to the AKC, cutting down the costs that allergy sufferers may have on meds. They’re also easy on the training bill and their small size often equals a lower food budget.
9. Labrador Retriever
Easy obedience makes this breed a gracious guide and rescue dog, according to the AKC. Even though you’ll need to invest initially in some training, your Labrador probably won’t need long-term lessons.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Yes, these precious pups cost a pretty penny upfront. That said, the AKC says they’re smart, obedient, gentle and easy enough to train that you won’t need to hand over all of your hard-earned money to a dog behaviour specialist. Their small stature also means less money for food and the ability to live in a smaller (and less costly) home.
Even though it’s not a breed, don’t forget about the adult shelter dog. Not only does this pooch have a low up-front cost, but the payment goes back to the shelter — helping other animals who need homes. Opting for an older pet may also mean that you get a trained dog who leaves behind less messes. This saves you cash on obedience classes and cleaning!
Keep in mind, cheap dogs don’t equal bargain basement deals. The ASPCA warns against buying dogs that come from puppy mills. A puppy mill is a mass breeding operation that sells their animals to brokers and pet stores.
Due to overcrowding, poor living conditions and the lack of proper medical treatment, dogs from these mills often have diseases, chronic conditions and behaviour problems.
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