5 Hidden Costs of Dog Ownership (and How to Prepare for Them!)

Bringing a dog into your life is an exciting and rewarding experience. They bring unconditional love, companionship, and plenty of laughs! But while many new pet parents budget for food, toys, and vet checkups, there are some hidden costs that can catch even the most prepared dog owners off guard. To help you plan ahead, we’re breaking down five hidden costs of dog ownership—so you’re never unpleasantly surprised.

1. Grooming and Maintenance: More Than Just a Bath

Depending on your dog’s breed, grooming might be a bigger expense than you anticipate. While short-haired dogs might need occasional baths and nail trims, which you may be able to do yourself at home, long-haired breeds like Poodles or Shih Tzus require frequent professional grooming. Regular grooming sessions, including haircuts, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing, can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 per visit. 

How to Prepare: Research your dog’s grooming needs before adopting and budget accordingly. If you’re up for it, learning basic grooming techniques at home can save you money in the long run.

2. Training and Behavioral Support: A Good Dog Takes Work

Not all dogs come pre-programmed with perfect manners! Whether you have a rambunctious puppy or an adopted dog with some behavioral quirks, training can be a significant investment. Professional group training classes can range from $100 to $300, while private sessions with a behaviorist can cost even more.

And if your dog develops anxiety, aggression, or destructive habits, addressing these issues with professional help is crucial for their well-being and your sanity.

How to Prepare: Start training early! Basic obedience training at home can go a long way, but be prepared to invest in professional training if needed. The earlier you address behavioral concerns, the easier (and less costly) they are to correct.

3. Damage and Replacements: Dogs Can Be Destructive

No matter how well-trained your dog is, accidents happen. Chewed-up shoes, shredded furniture, and torn-up carpets can be part of life with a pup—especially during puppyhood or teething phases.

Beyond household damage, dogs also wear out their own belongings. Beds, collars, leashes, and even their favorite toys need regular replacing, which can add up over time.

How to Prepare: Choose durable, high-quality pet gear that lasts longer, and puppy-proof your home early on. Investing in crate training and chew toys can help save your belongings from destruction!

4. Travel and Boarding: Planning Ahead for Your Pup

Vacations and business trips often come with an added expense for pet parents—boarding or pet-sitting. Boarding facilities can cost anywhere from $30 to $75 per night, and pet sitters may charge even more, especially for in-home care.

Even if you plan to bring your pup along, airline fees, pet-friendly accommodations, and travel accessories (like a sturdy crate) can add to your expenses.

How to Prepare: If you travel frequently, budget for pet care costs or look for trusted friends and family members who can help out. Pet insurance with travel coverage can also help if unexpected emergencies arise while you’re away.

5. Emergency Vet Bills: When Life Happens

No one likes to think about their furry friend getting sick or injured, but accidents happen! From an unexpected illness to a swallowed sock (yes, it happens more often than you’d think!), emergency vet visits can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Even routine issues like ear infections or stomach upsets can rack up costs quickly. More serious emergencies—like broken bones, surgeries, or chronic illnesses—can require extensive treatment, hospitalization, and medication, adding up fast.

How to Prepare: This is where pet insurance becomes a game-changer. By covering unexpected medical expenses, pet insurance ensures you can provide the best care for your dog without financial stress. Investing in a good pet insurance plan means you’ll never have to choose between your wallet and your pup’s health.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Pup and Your Wallet

Dog ownership is an incredible journey, but being financially prepared is key to ensuring your furry friend gets the best care possible. From training to travel costs and those unexpected vet bills, planning ahead can save you stress (and money!).

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.