Paws & Pennies: How to Budget Smartly Before Adopting a Dog

Do you already have a dog or are you considering adopting one? Either way, one of the most loving things you can do for your pup (and yourself!) is to make sure you’re financially prepared (in other words there is room in your budget)!

Dogs bring so much joy, unconditional love, and companionship—but they also come with a price tag. Planning ahead helps you enjoy all the snuggles and tail wags without stressing over surprise bills.

We both have dogs and absolutely adore them. But here’s the thing—we also have dedicated line items in our budgets for them. That way, we knew we were ready when we adopted.

Here are the main financial considerations to keep in mind, along with some smart strategies to make dog ownership more affordable.

Adoption Fees

You’ll likely pay adoption fees and sometimes vaccinations up front. If your pup is out of state, travel costs can add up too.

💡 Smart Tip: Before adopting, consider creating a small dog savings goal or “nest egg” fund. Even setting aside $200–$500 in advance can help you cover fees, first vet visits, and starter supplies without financial strain.

Vet Visits

Expect annual checkups, vaccinations, and the occasional unexpected visit if your pup gets sick or injured. These costs vary but can add up quickly.

💡 Smart Tip: Spread the cost out by putting aside a set amount monthly into a “pet health sinking fund.” That way, you’re not scrambling when the vet bill comes due.

Medicine

From heartworm prevention to flea and tick treatments, medication is a recurring expense.

💡 Smart Tips:

• Check out Zoetis Petcare Rewards, which offers rebates on certain medications.

• If you’re a Costco member, compare prices there—pet meds are often much cheaper than at the vet’s office.

• Consider setting up Subscribe & Save orders through Amazon or Chewy for regular preventatives—you’ll save a few dollars each month and never run out.

Doggy Daycare or Walkers

Even the most dedicated dog parents sometimes need backup—whether for vacations, long workdays, or just a busy week.

💡 Smart Tip: Look into local Facebook groups or apps like Rover or Wag for sitters and walkers. Sometimes neighborhood dog lovers offer the same services for less than big-name facilities.

Food, Treats & Toys

This is a big recurring category. Dogs eat (a lot), treats keep them happy, and toys… well, we all know how quickly those get destroyed!

💡 Smart Tips:

• Buy food in bulk at Costco or use auto-ship discounts on Chewy.

• Rotate a small set of durable toys rather than constantly buying new ones. (Kong toys, for example, last ages and can double as treat dispensers.)

  
  

Grooming

Depending on your dog’s breed, grooming can be an occasional DIY task or a regular salon expense.

💡 Smart Tip: Alternate between professional grooming and at-home maintenance. For example, bathe and brush at home one month, then go pro the next. It keeps costs lower while still ensuring your dog gets expert care when needed.

Training

Good training makes life with your dog much more enjoyable—but it can be pricey.

💡 Smart Tips:

• Mix and match: invest in a short professional course, then reinforce at home using YouTube tutorials.

• Some pet stores offer free training workshops—worth checking out!

Beds & Home Supplies

You’ll need a bed, bowls, collar, leash, and maybe even baby gates.

💡 Smart Tip: Stick to basics at first. You can always upgrade later once you know your dog’s preferences (and which items they won’t immediately chew through).

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance can save you from massive bills if something serious happens. But it’s important to get coverage early—before pre-existing conditions are diagnosed.

💡 Smart Tip: Research policies before adopting so you can sign up right away. We learned this the hard way—our dog developed chronic ear infections before we got insurance, and now those visits aren’t covered.

Other Sneaky Costs

Don’t forget about extras like dog license fees (required in some towns), pet deposits or monthly pet rent if you lease, and even home repairs if your pup gets a little too enthusiastic with the furniture.

The Bottom Line

Dogs are absolutely worth it—they bring joy, emotional support, exercise, and endless laughs. But being financially prepared helps you enjoy those moments without worry.

So, start with a small savings cushion, plan for recurring costs, and use smart money-saving strategies to keep expenses manageable.

If you do, adopting a dog can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make—for both your heart and your wallet.

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