7 Surprisingly Affordable Dogs For Owners On A Budget, Ranked

1. Chihuahua

The lovable Chihuahua is frequently available at local shelters. Even when they come from a breeder, they tend to be less expensive than other breeds. According to Newsweek, Chihuahuas average $650 to purchase, $23 to groom, and they don’t cost much to feed due to their small size. You don’t technically need a professional grooming service because their coats are short and easy to maintain, so grooming costs can cost as much as a dog brush costs to purchase.

Another perk of having a small pup is they tend to live longer. Reader’s Digest says Chihuahuas are among the longest-living dog breeds and often make it to 16 years old. While that may sound like a long time to pay for a dog, it also means they suffer from less medical issues, and therefore have lower vet costs through their lives.

Hepper Blog does warn that the smaller the Chihuahua is, the more health problems they are likely to be prone to. They recommend getting a Chihuahua on the larger side for a healthier dog.

2. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are exuberant dogs that have seemingly endless energy. They can be a handful, even for experienced dog owners. Pet Keen does not recommend them for first-time owners and describes them as mischievous and stubborn.

Market Watch Guides lays it all out: “The first year of Jack Russell terrier ownership will cost you about $3,585, but subsequent years will cost only $985. Altogether, this breed costs about $15,405 over 13 years.”

Although they can be expensive to initially purchase, Oodle Life says they are typically low-maintenance as far as care goes. They don’t need expensive grooming, special food, or a lot of exercise. So, while these dogs don’t require much financial commitment, you will want to consider how committed you can be to their training.

4. Pug

Pugs can draw some controversy due to irresponsible breeders. Flat-faced dogs can often face health problems, but responsibly bred pugs can enjoy a happy life with fewer chronic medical issues. Hepper Blog emphasizes the importance of doing your research on a breeder before you end up with a pug that has respiratory problems.

According to Animal Corner, Pugs are delightfully low-maintenance and adapt well to apartment living. Additionally, they add that Pugs are friendly, affectionate, and great with kids. Sounds like a win-win!

A Pug puppy can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,600, but Pugs with very high-quality lineage can be a couple thousand. They may be small, but they have huge personalities in a tiny package. Reader’s Digest says, “It’s cuteness overload with this flat-faced dog. Though we would pay top dollar for those smushed faces and adorable wrinkles, pugs are an affordable dog breed. In fact, the pug motto is ‘multum in parvo,’ meaning a lot in a little.”

5. Bichon Frise

The adorable Bichon Frise typically straddles the line between small and medium sizes. They tend to be fluffy and affable snuggle monsters. Aside from being affordable, Oodle Life says they are great with families, and are hypoallergenic. So, these dogs make a delightful pet for anyone.

According to Newsweek, Bichons typically cost around $525 to buy, but can reach around $1,000. If you decide to have them professionally groomed, the average cost is about $33 every four to six weeks.

6. Australian Terrier

Australian Terriers are tough dogs with strong bodies. Their purportedly robust health is a major factor in the Australian Terrier’s reduced costs. Newsweek says you can buy this breed for an average cost of $550 with grooming costs of about $45. Plus, these tiny pups are another breed that does not eat very much.

Hailing from a blend of British terriers brought Down Under in the 19th century, the Australian Terrier charms with its adaptability and manageable needs (AZ Animals). While its elegant coat warrants some additional grooming, its petite stature (typically 15-20 pounds) translates to smaller appetites and less space required compared to other breeds. Keeping in mind routine vet checkups for potential knee, eye, thyroid, and hip issues is recommended, but overall, Aussies boast good health, enjoying a lifespan of 11 to 14 years (Animal Corner).

This lack of common health concerns means lighter vet bills, making them an economical choice. Whether you call a cozy apartment or a spacious countryside home your own, an Aussie can happily adjust and thrive in your environment (Animal Corner). So, if a compact, adaptable, and relatively low-maintenance companion tickles your fancy, the Australian Terrier might just be the paw-fect furry friend for you.

7. Mutt

This list would not be complete without considering the good old shelter mutt. They come in many sizes and shapes, but mutts are typically quite healthy because of their mixed lineage. While a designer pedigree might hold some allure, consider the financial and health benefits of adopting a scruffy mutt. As Breeding Business highlights, shelter dogs are remarkably affordable, typically costing under $50 and often coming with essential vaccinations and neutering already handled.

Pet Keen chimes in, reminding us that mixed breeds hold their own against purebreds in the health department – their diverse genetic makeup makes them generally resistant to inherited conditions, potentially saving you hefty vet bills down the road.

Top Dog Tips adds weight to this point, reminding us that these lovable mutts are practically the bargain of the canine world, often free or at most a small adoption fee. So, if you’re seeking a furry friend who’s gentle on your wallet and surprisingly tough in the health department, look no further than your local shelter – a loyal mutt might just be waiting to steal your heart (and save you some cash).