Bringing two dogs into your home is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with significant financial responsibilities. From food and grooming to veterinary care and pet insurance, the costs of raising multiple dogs can add up quickly. Understanding these expenses can help you budget effectively and ensure your furry companions receive the best care.
Initial Costs of Getting Two Dogs
Before diving into the recurring expenses of pet ownership, it’s essential to consider the upfront costs of bringing home two dogs. These include adoption or purchase fees, initial veterinary visits, and basic supplies.
Adoption or Purchase Fees
● Adoption: Adopting from a shelter or rescue typically costs between $50 and $500 per
dog. Many shelters include spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping in the
fee.
● Buying from a breeder: If you choose to buy a purebred dog, prices can range from
$500 to $5,000 per dog, depending on the breed, pedigree, and breeder reputation.
Initial Veterinary Costs
Each dog will require an initial vet visit, which includes vaccinations, deworming, and a general health check-up. Initial vet expenses may include:
● Exams and vaccinations: $100–$300 per dog
● Spaying or neutering: $200–$500 per dog
● Microchipping: $30–$50 per dog
Essential Supplies
Each dog will need essential items such as:
● Food and water bowls: $10–$50
● Leashes, collars, and harnesses: $20–$100 per dog
● Beds and crates: $50–$200 per dog
● Toys and training aids: $20–$100 per dog
In total, the initial costs of raising two dogs can range from $500 to $7,000 depending on adoption, breed choice, and initial vet expenses.
Ongoing Monthly Expenses
Once your dogs have settled into your home, you’ll face regular expenses for food, vet care, grooming, and other needs.
Dog Food
The cost of feeding two dogs depends on their size, dietary needs, and the type of food you choose.
● Small breeds: $20–$50 per month per dog
● Medium breeds: $40–$80 per month per dog
● Large breeds: $80–$150 per month per dog
For two dogs, expect to spend between $50 and $300 per month on food alone.
Routine Veterinary Care
Even if your dogs are healthy, they’ll need routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention treatments.
● Annual exams and vaccinations: $100–$300 per dog
● Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention: $15–$50 per month per dog
For two dogs, routine vet care can cost $300 to $1,000 per year.
Grooming and Hygiene
Grooming needs vary depending on the breed.
● Short-haired dogs: Occasional brushing and bathing ($10–$30 per month)
● Long-haired or high-maintenance breeds: Regular professional grooming ($50–$100
per session, every 6–8 weeks)
For two dogs, grooming can cost $10 to $200 per month.
Training and Socialization
Professional training classes can help with obedience and socialization.
● Basic obedience classes: $100–$300 per dog
● Private training sessions: $50–$100 per session
Training for two dogs can cost $200 to $1,000 in the first year.
Pet Insurance for Multiple Pets
Pet insurance can help offset unexpected veterinary costs. Many providers offer multi-pet discounts when insuring more than one dog.
● Basic accident-only plans: $10–$30 per month per dog
● Comprehensive accident and illness plans: $30–$100 per month per dog
● Wellness add-ons: Additional $10–$50 per month per dog
Pet insurance for multiple pets can range from $20 to $200 per month, depending on coverage level and breed. Choosing a policy with a multi-pet discount can save 5–15% on premiums.
Additional Expenses
Other costs to consider include:
● Boarding or pet sitting: $25–$75 per day per dog
● Dog walking services: $15–$30 per walk
● Emergency vet visits: $500–$5,000 per incident
Final Thoughts
Raising two dogs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 per year, depending on size, breed, and care level. While the financial commitment is substantial, the companionship, love, and joy dogs bring make it worthwhile.
One of the smartest financial decisions a multi-dog owner can make is investing in pet
insurance with multi-pet discounts. This can provide peace of mind, helping cover unexpected medical expenses and ensuring both dogs receive the best care possible.
By budgeting wisely and planning for both routine and emergency expenses, you can provide a happy and healthy life for your two furry family members.
