We all dream of having a loyal four-legged best friend. But let’s be honest, owning a dog is not always cheap. Sadly. Between food, grooming costs, veterinary care, and surprise sock-eating emergencies, the bills can stack up fast!!
Luckily, not all dogs come with sky-high expenses. Some cheapest dog breeds are just naturally more affordable to care for. They eat less, need less grooming, and generally have good overall health, which means fewer vet visits and lower costs for you.
And you don’t have to sacrifice love, loyalty, or cuteness (ah, the cuteness) to save some cash. So, if you are on a tight budget or just a fan of frugality, these are the cheapest dog breeds that deliver max love for minimal money. And on that note, always get your dog from a reputable breeder.
Cheapest Dog Breeds
1. Chihuahua
Tiny dog. Tiny expenses.
The Chihuahua is one of the cheapest dog breeds around and not just because of its size. These pint-sized pups eat less food, need little grooming, and tend to have a long life expectancy, about 14-16 years, as noted by AKC, which spreads out the costs of ownership over time.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Eat a fraction of what larger breeds do
Have short hair and minimal grooming needs
Generally healthy with a low incidence of Hip Dysplasia or spinal issues
Average cost: $90-$200
These small-sized puppies are also super portable, which makes them perfect for first-time owners, apartment dwellers, or anyone who does not want a high-maintenance companion. They might be tiny, but their personality is anything but sassy, loyal, and bold. This is a dog with big opinions and a small appetite.
2. Beagle
Beagles are not only one of the most popular medium-sized dogs but also one of the most affordable dog breeds to raise. They have floppy ears and a super-sniffing nose. They are generally healthy, but PetMD mentions they might get ear infections if you don’t clean them more often, so take notes there.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
A short coat means low grooming requirements
Don’t need expensive pet insurance
Hardy and known for good overall health
Average cost: $150-$350
Beagles are also incredibly fun-loving, friendly, and awesome with kids. They are a smart pick for first-time owners who want a cheaper but cheerful pup to add to the family.
But here’s a warning. Keep an eye on their food. Beagles love to snack. They just love food. So, be mindful. You don’t want an obese Beagle.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
If you want a low-cost dog breed with high energy, we recommend the Jack Russell Terrier as your new sidekick. These cheap breeds are full of spunk, highly trainable, and have minimal grooming needs, thanks to their short coats.
They are also typically healthy and full of pep well into their senior years, and they can live up to 14 years.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Rarely need professional grooming
Low vet costs due to fewer chronic health issues
Thrive on regular exercise, not expensive daycare
Monthly costs: $50-$200
They do best with active owners who can keep up with their activity level and give them plenty of mental stimulation. And in return, you get years of laughter, energy, and companionship, without paying huge amounts for pet insurance.
4. Pug
Pugs are one of the cheapest breeds when it comes to grooming costs. Their short hair and easygoing nature make them easy to maintain, and they don’t need a ton of space or special care.
Oh, Pugs. Those wrinkly faces. That curly tail. And let’s be real, they are downright adorable without breaking the bank.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Eat a modest amount of food.
Don’t need fancy cuts or styling
Compact. Smaller dogs, smaller gear, less stuff
Monthly costs: $100-$200
But, Pugs can be prone to some health issues like dental problems or breathing difficulties, so pet insurance might be worth looking into just in case.
But overall, they are a low-maintenance and lovable option for those wanting a cheaper path to puppy parenthood.
5. Border Collie
Now here’s one you might not expect.
Border Collies are one of the smartest dogs on the planet, and believe it or not, they are also one of the more affordable dog breeds, especially if you can handle their energy.
The American Kennel Club mentions them as ‘highly intelligent and trainable’, so total cost means nothing when you can have a super active dog (they might be a bit much when you purchase them, but after that, it’s practically nothing.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Rarely needs to see the vet for chronic health problems
Respond quickly to training, reducing the cost of behavioral help
Their coat needs regular brushing, not fancy grooming
Monthly costs: $125-$500
These pups are working dogs by nature. It means they thrive with a job to do. If you are willing to give them structure, exercise, and love, they will give you loyalty, performance, and companionship on a budget. Just keep in mind: they are best for active families who enjoy being outdoors.
6. Australian Terrier
Here’s the underdog of budget-friendly pups: the Australian Terrier. They are not as famous as German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers, but if you are looking for a cheaper and compact dog that is full of charm, this might be your pick to save money.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Their short hair has low grooming requirements
Tend to be hardy with fewer health issues
Small size = less food, smaller crates, and lower maintenance costs
Monthly costs: $20-$50 for food, grooming costs $30-$60/session
Australian Terriers are adaptable, alert, and known for a strong bond with their humans. If you live in a city apartment or have a backyard to roam, they are a dog breed that fits easily into your budget.
7. Dachshund
The Dachshund or “wiener dog” may be short on legs, but it’s long on value. These quirky little pups are fairly inexpensive to raise, thanks to their small size and minimal grooming costs. They don’t eat much, and they are happy to chill with you around the house.
Key Wallet-Friendly Traits:
Low food intake, need food twice a day
Short hair = no salon visits
Long lives and are generally healthy with proper care
Monthly costs: $155-$855
You will want to watch out for spinal issues, especially in older Doxies. But overall, this is one of the breeds that needs relatively low maintenance. They can bring extreme awe into your life, and they are loaded with personality and attitude.
Conclusion
Owning a dog does not have to wreck your bank account. There are plenty of dog breeds out there that are just as loving and loyal, and entertaining as the more expensive ones, such as the Labrador Retriever.
And many of them come with added perks, like low grooming, great health, and long and joyful lives with minimal grooming expenses.
So, if you are thinking of adoption, start with a cheaper and gentler breed that fits your budget, your lifestyle, and your heart. Because in the end, the price tag does not (and cannot) measure the love they bring.
