The annual cost of owning a dog can be quite expensive. It’s easy to see how the costs add up when you have to pay for vaccinations, vet visits, food, toys, feeders and drinkers, walkers, babysitters, trainers, therapists, leashes, collars … the list goes on. Owning a dog can cost anywhere from $ 1,675 to $ 4,800 a year, which will likely cause you to panic if you are considering adopting one. However, there are several practical ways for future pet owners to save so that they can fit the cost of owning a dog into their budget because, as any pet parent knows, a dog brings more joy to a home and life than it does. that one could imagine until it is experienced.

• Consider getting a mixed breed. Many people are afraid of adopting mixed races because their background is not always known. However, the chances of the animal being healthy are higher than purebreds because purebreds may have inherited health problems.

• Compare the costs of a shelter or rescue adoption. Shelters can sometimes be cheaper than adopting a dog from the kennel or a rescue agency. You can find out what’s included in the cost of adoption, from sterilization to basic vaccinations. However, always keep in mind that the adoption fees are set to help the shelter continue to operate, a shelter is usually a non-profit organization, so the adoption fees do not go to the company jet, but to the protection and provision of medical care for animals.

• Adopt an adult dog instead of a puppy. This can greatly reduce the cost of owning a dog. Puppies are adorable and hard to resist, but they aren’t always the best for people trying to save money. They require additional veterinary care, immunizations, spaying, and obedience training. You can avoid all these annoyances by finding an adult puppy that has already been well behaved.

• Buy foods in bulk. This is usually the healthiest and most cost-effective way to buy dog ​​food. Don’t skimp on the quality of food or the quantity you feed your dog, because a poor diet will lead to long-term health problems.

• Do it yourself ideas. There are ways that you can make your own dog shampoos, fragrances, and skin conditioners. It’s also possible to bake your own dog treats and make your own toys … grab a stick, a tennis ball, or a frisbee. Develop your own pet exercise plan, you don’t have to spend money on pet exercise equipment and fancy diet foods … because all you have to do is get up and take your dog for a walk!

• Learn to compare prices. Here’s another great money saver when it comes to the cost of owning a dog. When it comes to prescription drugs, determine if they can be purchased generically from a pharmacy rather than brand name. In terms of over-the-counter products, these will generally cost a lot at your vet’s office, but you can get the exact same thing from an established e-commerce store for a much cheaper price. Use your resources and the Internet and you can save a decent amount of change.

The cost of owning a dog isn’t small … but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. By following these tips, you will save a significant amount of cash. You can always check with current pet owners, veterinarians, and shelter employees for more tips on saving money. However, if you feel like you don’t have enough money to keep a pet healthy, it’s probably best to wait a little longer to adopt one.