A house is not a home without a pet, however before taking the steps towards a lifetime with your new companion, there are some things new dog owners need to consider.
One of the biggest factors potential pet owners need to plan for is the cost of caring for a dog. In addition to the initial cost of adoption, there are a number of ongoing expenses the average pet owner will need to buy each year. According to the Australian Veterinary Association the cost of owning a dog over their lifetime is $25,000.
Below is a basic list of the care and items your dog requires during its lifetime. These costs can vary depending on the dog’s breed, age, size and any illness or accidents they may encounter.
| Council Reg | Melb $67/Council dependent |
| Vaccination | $130 (per year) |
| Veterinary consultation | $95 (per consult, 1-2 per year) |
| Worm/flea treatments | $300 (per year) |
| Food | $100-150 (per month) |
| Grooming | $30 – $150 |
You will also need to factor in:
| Vet treatment and medication | Varies |
| Obedience training classes | $150 plus |
| Accessories (e.g. lead, collar, harness, ID tags, bowls, car restraints, etc.) | $100 |
| Bedding | $50-$100 |
| Boarding | $30-$50 per night |
| Toys and treats | $10-25 per toy |
| Pet Insurance | $600 plus |