Care costs for different dog breeds: An insight into financial responsibility

If you want to get a dog, you will soon realise that the purchase is only the first step in a long-term partnership. The associated costs are manifold. In this article, we take a closer look at the care costs for different dog breeds and why it's wise to be aware of these expenses before bringing a furry companion into your home.

Why care costs play an important role

It's not just the purchase price or adoption fee that comes into play. Grooming costs are an essential component that is incurred regularly and can vary significantly depending on the breed and individual dog. Whether longhair, shorthair or even wiry coat - grooming each dog requires specific attention and associated costs.

What falls under care costs?

Before we look at the details of the different dog breeds, we should first clarify what is actually covered by the term grooming costs:

• Grooming: This includes visits to the hairdresser, brushing and grooming.
• Health check-ups: Regular visits to the vet for preventative care and health checks.
• Care products: Shampoos, brushes, claw care, dental care and much more.
• Additional care: Especially for dogs with special needs such as allergy sufferers.

The luxury look: grooming costs for longhaired breeds

Long-haired breeds such as the Afghan hound or the Havanese are known for their magnificent, flowing coat. But beauty has its price. These breeds need regular professional grooming to prevent matting and keep their coats healthy and shiny. A monthly visit to the groomer can be a must!

In addition, such dogs need daily brushing sessions at home, which requires additional brushing and grooming products. Sometimes it is not even enough just to brush the coat - regular baths with special shampoos are necessary to keep the skin and coat in top condition.

Middle ground: grooming requirements for shorthair breeds

Although short-haired breeds such as the Beagle or Dalmatian are less demanding in terms of daily grooming, they should not be neglected completely. These dogs also need brushing units to remove loose hair and support skin health.

The good news is that these breeds generally require fewer visits to the groomer. However, they should also visit the vet regularly - just like their long-haired cousins. It's often the little things that count - such as regular ear cleaning and claw trimming.

Little diva or Ah yes, the straight hair care?

Breeds like the Chihuahua or Whippet may require the least amount of grooming, but don't underestimate their needs! Especially with small breeds, controlling teeth and claws can become a major aspect of grooming costs. Sometimes even a small dog requires a large investment in specialised dental care products or diets.

Healthcare costs: the invisible giant

Regardless of the breed, preventative healthcare is a key part of the cost of care. Vet visits for vaccinations, check-ups and any treatments quickly add up. These expenses can be extra significant for breeds with genetic susceptibilities, such as brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds.

Preventative measures such as deworming, flea and tick protection also play a role. Depending on the region and lifestyle, these products may be required with varying frequency.

Very special needs: Care for specialised breeds

Some breeds such as the English Bulldog or the French Bulldog require specific care in the skin fold area, which needs extra attention. Investment in special creams or regular cleanings are essential here. These breeds are also more prone to health complications, which can result in regular visits to the vet with the corresponding price tag.

This can also be the case with water dogs such as poodles - their „curly“ coat structure requires regular grooming sessions and frequent haircuts to avoid skin problems.

Realistic assessment: clever calculation of care costs

It's crucial to consider the cost of caring for different dog breeds even before you make the decision to buy or adopt. The:

• Frequency of professional care required
• Regular health care and visits to the vet
• Need for special care products

Being proactive can make the difference between a smooth partnership and an unexpected financial burden.

Conclusion: prevention is better than aftercare

The cost of caring for different dog breeds should not be seen as an obstacle, but as preparation for a happy and healthy relationship with your four-legged friend. Every paw pet deserves this care. So, know the needs of your favourite breed and plan accordingly - your furry friend will thank you!

Always consider integrating not only the initial costs but also the ongoing care needs into your decisions. Because, as the saying goes: prevention is better than cure. And in this case, the saying couldn't be more true.

FAQs

How much do different dog breeds cost to buy?

The cost of buying a dog can vary considerably, depending on the breed and whether the dog is purebred or not. Here are some average prices:

• Labrador and Golden Retriever: approx. 15,102 euros
• German shepherd dog: approx. 12,400 euros
• Beagle: approx. 12,352 euros
• Border Collie: approx. 11,876 euros
• Rottweiler: approx. 10,507 euros
• Jack Russell Terrier: approx. 10,271 euros
• Poodle: approx. 10,148 euros
• Chihuahua: approx. 9,840 euros

How much does a dog cost, including all additional expenses?

The total cost of keeping a dog is made up of several factors, such as food, grooming, vet visits, insurance, toys and accessories. This can vary between 1,000 and 2,500 euros per year, depending on the dog and its individual needs.

How much does a mixed breed dog usually cost?

The cost of a mixed breed dog is usually lower than for purebred dogs. A mixed breed dog can often be adopted from a shelter, which usually involves a relatively small fee of around 100 to 300 euros. This fee often covers initial health check-ups, vaccinations and microchip registration.

Why are maintenance costs more important than the purchase price?

The purchase price is only a one-off, whereas the care costs are incurred regularly and can be significant over the course of a dog's life. Expenses for nutrition, health and care quickly add up and should be clearly considered when deciding on a dog playmate.