Yes, we all dream of having a big and loving furry friend. But let’s be honest for a moment. The total cost of owning a dog can scare many people away. Big dogs come with big bills. Food, grooming, vet bills, and pet insurance can all add up pretty fast.
Well, we’ve got some good news. Not all large dogs come with high prices. Some are actually among the most affordable dog breeds out there. So if you are also looking for a healthy and low-maintenance pup, you are in the right place.
In this blog, we will take a look at some of the least expensive dog breeds that will be easier on your pockets.
Affordable Large Dog Breeds
1. Treeing Walker Coonhound
Have you ever looked at a dog and thought, “Is that just a really big Beagle?” That is probably a Treeing Walker Coonhound. But don’t be fooled by their looks. These pooches are unique in their own ways. These tri-colored dogs are full of energy and are surprisingly one of the cheapest dog breeds.
Why This Breed Saves Money
Let’s talk about money first… because that’s what brought you here, right?
The average purchase price is around $500
Health care costs start at $1,500 for common needs
Grooming costs are just $31 per visit
And here is the cool part. You probably won’t even need a groomer often. The Treeing Walker Coonhound has short hair that doesn’t trap dirt. The coat can stay clean with just an occasional bath. That means lower grooming costs and no need for professional grooming all the time.
WebMD states that these pooches are generally healthy, and very few health issues usually show up in this breed. That’s great news for your vet bills! Their life expectancy is also 12 to 13 years, which is a solid average lifespan for large dogs.
2. Collie
Remember Lassie, the TV series that aired between 1954 and 1971? You must have seen a smart and loyal dog in it that always saved the day. Yep, that was a Collie. And yes, they are just as amazing in real life as well. Collies are not only brave and beautiful, but also one of the least expensive dog breeds.
Why Collies Are a Smart Choice For Budget-Conscious Families
Collies don’t come with a bunch of surprise costs. They are a fairly healthy breed and don’t suffer from many health problems.
Vet visits are usually one per year
The average price is around $1,100 from a reputable breeder
Monthly care is between $135 and $250.
These pups have low grooming requirements, especially if you go with a Smooth-coated Collie. Even Rough Collies only need regular brushing, which you can totally do at home.
One of the best things about owning a Collie? These dogs are extremely gentle and great with kids. They are protective as well. It’s no wonder they’ve been loved by families for generations!
3. Otterhound
You’ve probably never seen an Otterhound in your life. And even if you did, you might have thought that it was a unique dog with a shaggy beard and a goofy smile. But guess what? This rare breed is not only full of personality. It is also an affordable dog breed.
Why the Otterhounds Won’t Drain Your Wallet
Their purchase price is around $550
Bathing costs about $40 per session
Vet bills are surprisingly low as well
You don’t need to spend money on professional grooming. Just grab some shampoo and a brush. A quick DIY grooming keeps their coat neat.
Otterhounds were bred to hunt (you guessed it!) otters in Great Britain. These pooches absolutely love swimming! Their webbed feet and waterproof coats make them amazing swimmers.
4. American Foxhound
Think of a Beagle. And now imagine it to be twice that size. That’s the American Foxhound. This dog might look familiar, but it is in a league of its own when it comes to personality and price. These pups are considered one of the healthiest and most resilient breeds out there.
Why This Hound Helps You Save Money
If you are on a budget but want an active dog, then the American Foxhound is a smart pick.
The purchase price of these dogs is around $475
Bathing costs about $27 per session
Vet bills are low as well
Their short coat is waterproof and super low-maintenance. A quick brush now and then does the job.
They also eat moderate amounts of food, even though they are big dogs. So your food costs stay reasonable as well. Just remember to give them lots of exercise every day. Without it, they can become bored fast.
5. German Wirehaired Pointer
Do you just love the outdoors and want a dog that can keep up? Meet the German Wirehaired Pointer! This dog is smart as a whip and ready to be your workout buddy. It is tough, loyal, and best of all? It is one of the cheapest dog breeds for active homes.
Why This Smart Pup Helps You Save Money
You need not worry when you have a GWP by your side! This pup just won’t drown you in bills.
Adoption fees are usually around $50 to $500
The breed price is around $600 to $950 on average
Setup costs are between $200 and $900 for things like a bed, leash, food bowls, and toys
Their water-resistant coat doesn’t need much work. Just brush it a couple of times a week and give it an occasional bath. You can also save on training costs. Why? Because GWPs are very smart and learn fast. A few fun sessions with treats and praise can go a long way.
6. Greyhound
Yes, you probably associate the Greyhounds with speed. AKC mentions that these dogs are the fastest dog breeds on the planet. But here is the fun twist: off the track, these pooches are total couch potatoes! Seriously! Greyhounds are calm and gentle dogs that absolutely love cuddling next to you.
Why Greyhounds Are So Affordable to Own
This might surprise you. Despite being large dogs, these pups are actually one of the most affordable large dog breeds to own.
Adoption fees are usually between $225 and $750
Low grooming needs thanks to their short hair
Fewer health issues, which means lower medical expenses
Many Greyhounds come from retired racing programs. Since dog racing has been banned in many countries, thousands of these dogs have been rescued. Adoption programs now place them in loving homes for very low fees. Way lower than purebred dogs from reputable breeders.
7. Cane Corso
Cane Corsos can look a bit intimidating at first glance. PetMD says that despite being guardians historically, Cane Corsos are loyal and affectionate. This pup might just be perfect for you if you are looking for a large dog that is low-maintenance and doesn’t come with sky-high bills.
Why This Giant Dog Can Still Be a Budget Dog
Short hair with little grooming needed
Very healthy, so fewer vet visits
Quickly learn during training (that saves money as well)
These are purebred dogs, but you can often find them at shelters or rescue groups. Adopting a shelter dog is better than buying from a breeder, which can cost you thousands. But if you are fixated on buying a puppy from a breeder, you can expect to spend around $1500 or more.
Conclusion
Bringing a large dog into your home doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. The truth is that many best breeds can also be some of the cheapest dog breeds to own.
Apart from the dogs mentioned above, there are other breeds as well that you can own. These include the American Hairless Terrier, Labrador Retrievers, Bichon Frise, French Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, Irish Terriers, and Rat Terriers.
Here is the key: pick a dog that exactly fits your lifestyle. Consider your space, time, energy level, and how much you are willing to spend on food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Avoid puppy mills, visit local shelters. You might just find your perfect furry friend waiting there for you!
