Whether you get a big dog or a small dog, the truth is that owning a pup can get pretty expensive. But did you know there are low-cost dog breeds out there, so you won’t have to worry about going beyond your budget?
Hairless dogs such as the American Hairless Terrier and the Mexican Hairless are equally cheap to own because of their minimal grooming requirements. And a short-haired Pug is also budget-friendly, starting with the initial cost of buying one and its monthly maintenance needs.
There are several more low-cost dog breeds that can easily fit your budget concerns. Here are some of them – from large breeds to small ones and anything in between!
32. Australian Terrier
Average Price: $700 to $1,200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $101 to $130
With their small stature, Australian Terriers are quite cost-effective to own. Grooming is kept to a minimum, and by that, we mean only twice a year. This saves you from having to go to a professional groomer that can be quite expensive.
Aside from grooming costs, these pups are generally healthy. There’s no need to worry about having to make several vet trips when you have this breed as a pet. And because they are small, food expenses are not too steep, either.
31. Puggle
Average Price: $1,000 to $2,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $80 to $120
A cross between a Pug and a Beagle, the Puggle is another one of those low-cost dog breeds you might want to consider owning. These pups have short, low-shedding coats, so there’s no need for costly regular grooming.
Keeping these canines happy does not take much, as well. As long as they get their regular walks, they are happy campers. They also don’t have a massive appetite, so that keeps the food bill low.
30. Boykin Spaniel
Average Price: $900
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $120
Don’t be intimidated by their long hair. They may have flowing, long coats, but grooming is not intensive – nor expensive – at all. Just brush the coat regularly, use regular dog shampoo, and these puppers are good to go. Easy-peasy.
Boykin Spaniels are originally bred as hunting dogs, which means they love to stay active. But they are perfectly okay with staying at home and spending quality time with you. No need to hit the dog park too often with these fellows.
29. Bichon Frise
Average Price: $50 to $200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $600 to $2,500
Bichon Frise dogs are natural fluff balls with a dense, cottony-soft coat that’s just irresistible to the touch. Although they have thick hair, they most certainly do not need a lot of grooming. Even the average dog owner can easily learn how to get these pups’ coats styled nicely.
Food and toys are also relatively cheap when you have these dogs around. They don’t eat as much, and they are perfectly content with simple forms of entertainment. On the plus side, they are calm and gentle-mannered, so they should be stress-free to be around.
28. Beagle
Average Price: $550
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $90 to $220
Their quintessential puppy dog eyes and floppy ears are just a few of the reasons why you’ll love a Beagle. And they’re budget-friendly to own, too! Grooming requirements are minimal, and food intake is not excessive at all.
Do take note that these dogs are natural hunting breeds. They require a fenced yard to play around in; otherwise, they may run around the neighborhood and chase tiny critters. Other than that, owning a Beagle is cheap, easy, and relatively stress-free.
27. English Bulldog
Average Price: $1,500 to $4,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $115 to $300
English Bulldogs are the epitome of sheer relaxation. They love their naps, cuddle times, and lazy days at home with their favorite person. So, you don’t have to worry about buying pricey toys to keep them entertained.
These canines are short-coated fellows, so that keeps grooming costs down, as well. Just be sure to regulate their food intake to prevent them from getting overweight.
26. Mutts
Average Price: $0 to $250
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $125
Mixed breed dogs or mutts are definitely affordable. You can easily get them for a small fee in shelters or even for free, at times. So, the upfront cost is most certainly low. If you get a small mixed breed or a medium-sized one with a short coat, monthly maintenance bills are also low.
Health-wise, mutts are at the top of their game. They don’t possess genetic flaws common in purebred dogs, so this also reduces the need for frequent (and costly) vet visits.
25. Rat Terrier
Average Price: $83 to $100
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $700
Next up on our list of low-cost dog breeds is the agile and nimble Rat Terrier. Because of their high energy level, they need lots of toys to ward off boredom and anxiety. But since they are small – and stay small – the food cost is only minimal.
These dogs have wiry, short hair that makes grooming stress-free, easy, and cheap. You can even groom them yourself, so it should not be a budget issue for you.
24. Manchester Terrier
Average Price: $1,000 to $2,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $83 to $125
Another short-haired cutie is the Manchester Terrier. These pups have relatively zero need for professional grooming, as long as you do the easy job of clipping their nails, giving them baths, and cleaning their ears. These are just basic things that don’t require a pro to do.
Manchester Terriers are active pups, though. They need their regular walks and playtime, but other than that, it should be easy to keep them happy. Expensive toys are not a requirement as they can be content with just being outdoors with you.
23. Cane Corso
Average Price: $700 to $2,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $159 to $240
They may be larger than the other pups on the list, but that does not make them expensive to own. In fact, Cane Corsos have short coats that hardly ever shed, so there is no need for expensive grooming.
These are healthy pups, which is another reason why they are cost-effective to own. Easy to please, mild-mannered, and calm, a Cane Corso should fit perfectly into your home.
22. Jack Russell Terrier
Average Price: $800 to $2,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $84
Like many Terriers, the Jack Russell is a small pooch that works well for a budget-conscious owner. They have a minimal appetite and require very few grooming sessions to keep the cost down. Just a bath at home and some basic grooming should suffice for these pups.
However, Jack Russells are very active and playful dogs. They need their regular walks and can’t be left alone for a long time, or they can develop behavioral problems.
21. Chinese Crested
Average Price: $1,200 to $2,200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $40 to $100
Chinese Crested dogs are mostly hairless but with wispy hair on the head, which adds to their unique appearance. They require very minimal grooming, and they eat little amounts of food. This is why they easily fit on our list of low-cost dog breeds.
If you like a pet that’s affectionate, gentle, and lively, then the Chinese Crested ticks all boxes. They love to be around their favorite humans and are easy to please.
20. Foxhound
Average Price: $600 to $800
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $90 to $120
Foxhounds are short-haired, small dogs that are budget-friendly to own, as well. They are healthy pups that should keep vet bills down. Food costs are also cheap since they are more active than hungry, most of the time.
Just be sure to take care of the basics in grooming this pooch if you don’t plan on taking your pet to a professional groomer. Keep the ears clean, nails clipped, and the coat neat by giving this active fellow a bath.
19. Glen of Imaal Terrier
Average Price: $1,500 to $2,200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $80 to $110
Unlike most Terriers, the Glen Of Imaal Terrier is calmer and gentler. They don’t need much to be content – just minimal walking and some grooming are all it takes to keep them happy and healthy.
These dogs are also healthy, and they shed very minimally. You should not have to worry about frequent vet trips with this guy or gal around.
18. Miniature Schnauzer
Average Price: $1,000 to $3,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $98 to $250
They may have long coats, but Miniature Schnauzers are low-shedding dogs, so it should not be a problem having them around. Grooming is required, but this is something you can easily do even without professional experience.
Since they are small dogs, there is no need to worry about steep food bills. They don’t eat as much and can be perfectly happy with minimal toys, which further keep the cost low.
16. Border Collie
Average Price: $700 to $1,200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $125 to $500
Border Collies are medium-sized dogs that love to work. Give them any task, and they make sure to get it done right. They are intelligent creatures, which means there’s no need to sign them up for expensive training sessions. You can do the job yourself easily because of how smart and obedient these pups are.
But mind you, these dogs are not couch potato canines. They need to stay active as part of their health regimen. Take them out for a walk or play with them to prevent boredom, anxiety, or depression.
15. Chihuahua
Average Price: $800
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $80 to $150
Some Chihuahuas have long hair while others have short. Either way, they should be easy and cheap to care for because of their diminutive build. They eat very little, brushing and bathing suffice as grooming requirements, and they don’t need much to stay happy.
These pups are also relatively healthy, with very few hereditary flaws. As long as you feed them right, give them moderate exercise, these dogs should keep vet bills low.
14. Dalmatian
Average Price: $800 to $1,600
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $135 to $200
Dalmatians are another large breed that can be quite low-cost to own. They are short-haired dogs with very little grooming needs. Training is also not an issue since they are smart and obedient fellows.
Aside from very few health concerns, Dals should be quite fit and well. They are not prone to a lot of disorders, so vet costs are manageable and minimal.
13. Havanese
Average Price: $1,000 to $1,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $70 to $100
Just as most tiny pups, Havanese eat little, which is why monthly food bills are also pretty cheap. They are generally healthy pooches, so that eliminates the need for frequent vet visits when you own these dogs.
Although they have medium-length fluffy coats, they are light shedders. You can also easily groom them at home or take them to a professional groomer a couple of times a year. Overall, they are budget-friendly pups to have as pets.
12. Irish Terrier
Average Price: $700 to $1,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $107 to $220
If you prefer to own a medium-sized pooch whose needs fit your budget easily, then the Irish Terrier is a good choice. They are low-shedding pups, and all they need is regular brushing to keep them nicely groomed.
These dogs don’t need too much food, but they require high-quality dog food to keep them healthy. Overall, they are cost-effective pets with little need for vet visits because of their naturally healthy bodies.
11. Otterhound
Average Price: $1,500 to $3,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $80 to $100
Playful and active, Otterhounds are energetic fellows. They are entertaining and adorable pups that will keep you on your toes – no need for a pricey gym membership to get you off the couch! As a pet, they are easy to maintain and groom at home.
With their moderate build, they don’t have voracious appetites, thus keeping the food costs down. They can also keep entertained even without a ton of toys around. Just a walk or run around the yard is enough to satisfy their need for activity.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
Average Price: $1,200 to $2,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $60 to $150
The upfront cost for a Yorkshire Terrier may be pricey, but the ongoing expenses should be manageable. In fact, you can set your monthly budget to as low as $60 for these tiny cuties. They are healthy pups that only need the basics to ward off diseases.
If you prefer to keep grooming costs down, then you can give your pup a short hairdo. This reduces the number of visits to a groomer while keeping your pup neat and tidy-looking.
9. Australian Shepherd
Average Price: $800 to $1,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $90 to $120
Australian Shepherds thrive on activity. They love it when they are tasked to do something – and they make sure to get it done quickly. Keeping them happy should be cheap since all they need is a space to run around.
As for their health, Aussies are generally healthy fellows. They don’t have many genetic flaws, so this makes them cost-effective to own because of very little need for vet visits.
8. Dachshund
Average Price: $500 to $1,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $50 to $110
Dachshunds come in two types – long-haired and short-haired. If you prefer a low-cost dog for a pet, then you should opt for the short-haired Doxie. They are easy and cheap to groom since these dogs only need brushing and bathing to keep their coats clean.
These small pups are also cheap to own because of their relatively healthy bodies. They may have some hereditary health problems, but as long as you follow the proper eating patterns for these dogs, they should be fine.
7. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Average Price: $870 to $1,800
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $100 to $300
An excellent family pooch, the adorable Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is another one of the best low-cost dog breeds to own. They are pretty healthy canines, which means no need for massive vet bills.
These dogs are entertaining creatures but with a great need for early training to prevent unruly behavior. Fortunately, they are obedient and eager to please, so you can train them yourself instead of hiring an expensive pro to do the job.
6. Papillon
Average Price: $375 to $1,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $50 to $250
A tiny, active pup, the Papillon is another good breed to consider when you want to keep costs down. They eat very little and can adapt to any living environment without any problem. Moderate daily walks and some playtime indoors or outdoors should suffice to keep them happy.
With a Papillon, you have a great companion dog and watchdog all in one pup. They are always ready to defend you when they sense danger around.
5. Bolognese
Average Price: $300 to $1,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $163 to $190
Bolognese dogs may have long hair, but they only need regular brushing and a couple of professional grooming a year. They are also cheap to own because of the low food bills required for these tiny fellows.
When you want a small, compact, and healthy pup with a fluffy coat, then the Bolognese is what’s excellent for you. They do not require much to be happy, and just simple, budget-friendly toys will do to entertain them.
4. Miniature Pinscher
Average Price: $1,000 to $3,000
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $81 to $130
Miniature Pinschers are easy and cheap to care for with their naturally short and smooth coats. They don’t need professional grooming at all, which reduces your expenses. An occasional bath is all it takes to keep them clean and neat.
As for training these little pups, you can easily do this yourself. Just be firm and consistent during the training sessions. Another plus point is the food cost – these dogs have little appetite to further reduce your bills.
3. Pug
Average Price: $500 to $1,200
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $80 to $120
A laid-back and easy-to-please pup is what you get from this compact cutie. Pugs are low-cost dogs because of the minimal grooming required. They have short, low-shedding coats that only require occasional baths.
But one thing to note about these dogs – they do like to eat. But as long as you regulate their food intake and give them moderate exercise, they should stay healthy while keeping your costs to a minimum.
2. Mexican Hairless Dog
Average Price: $600 to $800
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $105
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, simply referred to as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the finest low-cost dog breeds for allergy sufferers. Since they don’t have thick coats, they don’t require brushing or professional grooming and only minimal bathing.
These dogs also have little vet needs. They do get prone to sunburn, so it is best to keep them away from the sun’s intense heat to prevent any skin issues.
1. American Hairless Terrier
Average Price: $800 to $1,500
Monthly Maintenance Costs: $130
And lastly, we have the American Hairless Terrier. When it comes to grooming and cleaning, they are hassle-free and budget-friendly. You don’t have to take them to a professional groomer, and they won’t trigger your allergy attacks either, thus keeping the costs down overall.
Owning an American Hairless Terrier won’t cost you an arm or a leg. They have minimal food requirements, are generally healthy, and can be content without plenty of toys with them.
Related Questions
What Breed Of Dogs Live The Longest? The Chihuahua, Jack Russell Terrier, and American Hairless Terrier are just some of the few dog breeds that live the longest. Their life expectancy ranges from 15 to 20 years, giving you plenty of time to love these adorable cuties.
Should I Get A Dog If I Work All Day? Some dogs are okay with being left alone during the day while at work, such as the Chihuahua and Miniature Schnauzer. However, some dog breeds prefer to have you around most of the time, such as the Papillon, Bichon Frise, and Yorkshire Terrier. You certainly have to avoid these few breeds if you have a hectic schedule.
Is It Better To Buy Or Adopt A Dog? When it comes to cost, adopting a dog is better since it is cheaper overall. You can save hundreds of dollars by picking out a pooch in a shelter and perhaps only need to pay a small adoption fee. In addition, you are giving a second chance to these unfortunate dogs waiting to be loved.
