Dogs are the perfect companions that provide emotional support to their owners. The dogs are active and playful; some of the dogs are working dogs, while others share strong bonds. These dogs differ in their appearances, sizes, and characteristics. In the same way, the food, nutrition, and grooming cost differently.
Before choosing a dog, there are some important points to consider. Some dogs are susceptible to more health issues. The most common issues in most dogs are external parasites, fleas, and ticks.
Vet costs can vary depending on the type of visit; whether it’s a routine check-up, vaccinations, treatment for an illness, or an emergency. On average, you can expect to pay about $225 annually, according to ASPCA estimates.
In this article, we will learn about the dog breeds that have the most expensive vet bills.
Dog Breeds With High Vet Bills
Every dog faces different health conditions that are related to skin infections, heart diseases, eye issues, and it could be joint issues. Let us find out the health problems of dog breeds that cost the most.
1. German Shepherd
German shepherds are the most popular dog breed that are devoted, smart, and the best watchdogs. They are among the breeds that come with the pricey vet bills. These agile dogs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, and spinal problems. Thousands of dollars are required to cure these issues.
Occasional checkups, X-rays, and medication can ease the pain, and joint problems will heal very fast. German Shepherds need around $700 to $1,200 yearly, according to Spot Pet Insurance. If surgery is needed, that will escalate accordingly.
German Shepherds are great companions that belong to the working dog category. For the owners, it is advisable to set a budget for the regular or serious medical needs.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are cute and cuddly and have flat faces. But aside from their cuteness, they are high-maintenance dog breeds with high vet bills. They are prone to breathing difficulties; they have a small nose, and the air passage is narrow, making the process more tricky, especially during the warm weather.
The English Bulldog also faces panting issues due to upper airway disease and lung infection. They are also prone to skin allergies, joint issues, and eye problems. All the vet visits they need for allergy and breathing issues are very costly.
The surgeries to align the airways or to correct the eyes can cost between $1,500 and $3,000. Every year, you can expect to spend at least $1,000 on the medical care of an English Bulldog.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are the most affectionate dogs, have a friendly temper, and are very gentle with kids. They usually stay active and happy; they suffer health issues like hip dysplasia, dermatitis, ear infections, and cancer.
PetMD states that Golden Retrievers are prone to certain health issues, which means regular vet checkups and preventative care are a must. As a result, you can expect higher-than-average veterinary costs. Investing in pet insurance can help manage these expenses and keep your pup healthy.
Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly, easygoing nature, making them excellent family pets. They’re full of energy, so a consistent daily exercise routine is essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Early training is important, and because Goldens are known for being a bit mouthy, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them to prevent them from chewing or eating things they shouldn’t.
4. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are strong, protective, and powerful dog breeds. They belong to the working dog breed, and they are excellent guard dogs. These loyal dogs are expensive to maintain with the higher veterinary expenses.
The big-sized dogs are susceptible to joint issues, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia. They also have a risk of developing cancer and the risk of heart disease.
A lot of Rottweiler needs regular prescription, joint supplements, and even surgeries. Depending on the dog’s condition, annual veterinary bills can go really high.
Emergency surgeries, such as bloat or torn ligaments, can cost thousands of dollars. They require a sound saving plan; these devoted dogs are worth the care.
5. Great Dane
Great Danes have giant vet bills; they are hunting dogs, have a strong and sturdy structure, and belong to the mastiff sighthound. These big dogs have huge hearts. Due to their gigantic structure, they suffer from bone and heart diseases and a life-threatening syndrome called bloat, which sometimes needs an operational cure.
Even typical care is expensive due to their large size; they need more doses of medication, bigger x-rays, and sedation for treatment. Healthy dogs typically need annual wellness exams during their younger years and biannual visits once they reach their senior stage.
If your Great Dane becomes ill, they may require more frequent vet checkups. The overall cost will vary depending on your veterinarian’s exam fees, any routine tests like bloodwork, and whether any health issues are discovered during the visit.
Owning a Great Dane is all about being prepared for the gigantic love and the bigger medical expenses.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are wonderful and kind companions. They love cold weather, are fond of socializing, and are great dogs. But they are the dog breeds with the priciest veterinary care because of their many health problems.
They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, and even cancer. Owners need to go through many procedures, including therapy, chronic medication, and surgeries. Certain health issues, such as joint surgery, may cost as much as $10,000.
WebMD states that proper pet care requires proper grooming, dental care, and proper focus on nutrition.
They are affectionate and gentle dogs, yet their health problems imply more visits to the vet and increased long-term expenses.
7. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds and also one of the top breeds when it comes to high vet bills. They are adorable dogs and have a compact body, wrinkled flat face, and pushed nose that has small nostrils that lead to breathing difficulties and require proper care.
This dog breed suffers from ear infections, skin allergies, and back problems. Frenchies’ medical expenses can increase depending on their health problems.
Other health issues are related to the spinal disorders; the disc displacement requires surgery on an immediate basis, which can cost $5,000 to $8,000.
Frenchies are low-maintenance dogs; they are loving companions. It is wise to be financially ready to take care of their complex needs.
Conclusion
Pet ownership is not an easy job; it requires them to take care of their dogs on a regular basis through grooming, taking care of their physical needs, and mental stimulation. If they face health problems, they require veterinary care. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends doing proper care and grooming for the well-being of the dog.
It is recommended to choose the pet dog wisely and carefully after careful consideration of the medical expenses. The owners need to be aware of the health risks that differ according to the dog breeds. For the expensive vet visit cost, consider reliable pet insurance that will ease the hour of need.
