Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys, but let’s be honest, it can also be a big commitment for your wallet. From food to vet visits, grooming, and training, the costs add up fast.
The good news? You don’t need a hefty budget to enjoy loyal companionship. Some dog breeds are naturally low-maintenance, thriving on simple care routines and affordable upkeep.
In this guide, we’ll explore 7 of the most budget-friendly dog breeds in the world—perfect for pet lovers who value both heart and practicality. These dogs prove that being cost-effective doesn’t mean cutting corners on love, loyalty, or personality.
Whether you live in a city apartment or a cozy suburban home, you’ll find breeds here that are easy to care for, healthy, and full of charm. Let’s discover which canine companions offer the best blend of affordability and affection.
Most Cheapest To Own Dog Breeds In World
1. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is an energetic, intelligent dog that thrives in active households. Its rugged, weather-resistant coat and hardy build make it easy to care for, keeping grooming costs low. Originally bred for hunting, it’s a versatile, loyal companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
This breed’s high energy means exercise replaces boredom; daily walks, games, and hikes help prevent unwanted behaviors. With proper activity, it remains calm and content indoors. For budget-conscious owners, its minimal health issues and durable nature keep vet visits manageable.
According to the American Kennel Club, German Wirehaired Pointers are affectionate with family and eager to learn, responding well to consistent training. Positive reinforcement helps build strong bonds and reinforces their cooperative spirit. They enjoy working closely with their humans on tasks or play.
Its wiry double coat sheds little and protects from dirt, requiring only occasional brushing. This low-maintenance grooming routine helps reduce costs compared to high-shedding breeds. Regular check-ins for ears and nails keep them comfortable and healthy.
For those seeking an affordable, loyal, and adventurous pet, this breed fits the bill. It’s a great match for owners who enjoy an active lifestyle and prefer a dog that thrives on both exercise and companionship.
Quick Tips
Schedule daily exercise to satisfy their energy needs
Use gentle, reward-based training to encourage focus
Brush weekly to maintain a clean, low-shedding coat
2. Collie
The Collie is a graceful, intelligent breed known for its loyalty and affectionate temperament. Its balanced nature and trainability make it an ideal family companion that’s as gentle as it is bright. Thanks to its strong health and simple diet, it’s among the more affordable dogs to own.
This breed adapts well to both active families and peaceful homes. While they enjoy exercise, Collies don’t demand extreme routines, which helps save on training and boarding costs. Their friendly personality also makes them great for families with children and other pets.
Their long, flowing coat looks high-maintenance but is easy to manage with weekly brushing. Collies shed seasonally, so a quick routine keeps grooming simple. Regular coat care, combined with strong genetics, means fewer trips to professional groomers.
Highly trainable and responsive, Collies excel in obedience and family life. Their sharp instincts and natural gentleness make them loving, low-stress pets that rarely pose behavioral challenges.
For owners seeking a loyal, intelligent dog with low upkeep, the Collie is a standout choice. It balances elegance, friendliness, and affordability beautifully.
Quick Tips
Brush once or twice weekly to prevent tangles
Provide light daily exercise for mental stimulation
Reinforce good manners through short, fun training sessions
3. Dalmatian
Famous for its eye-catching spots, the Dalmatian is a playful, intelligent breed with a surprisingly affordable upkeep. Its short coat requires minimal grooming, and it thrives on a simple care routine that suits busy, budget-conscious owners.
These dogs love activity and adventure, making exercise their best entertainment. Regular walks, runs, or games help them stay fit and happy, reducing destructive habits. With proper exercise, they become well-mannered and calm at home.
Dalmatians are generally healthy with long life expectancy, meaning fewer unexpected vet costs. Routine care, balanced nutrition, and regular activity keep them thriving well into adulthood.
Their sleek, smooth coat sheds year-round but is easy to maintain—brushing once a week keeps fur under control. This low-maintenance grooming routine saves both time and money.
For families seeking a distinctive, outgoing dog with low overall costs, the Dalmatian offers charm, endurance, and affection—all without stretching the budget.
Quick Tips
Brush weekly to control light, frequent shedding
Offer daily exercise to channel their playful energy
Keep fresh water available—they’re active and need hydration
4. Redbone Coonhound
The Redbone Coonhound is a spirited, loyal dog with a sleek red coat that’s as easy to care for as its personality is loving. Originally bred for hunting, it’s now known as a friendly, low-cost companion for active families.
With minimal grooming needs and strong overall health, this breed keeps veterinary and maintenance expenses low. Regular brushing and simple meals are usually all it takes to keep them looking and feeling great.
Energetic and adventurous, Redbones thrive on outdoor activities like hikes or jogs. Their enthusiasm for play makes daily exercise enjoyable rather than a chore. They bond deeply with family, offering warmth and affection without demanding extra attention.
Their short, glossy coat rarely tangles or mats, making grooming affordable and easy. Combined with their trainable nature, they fit well into homes seeking a balanced, manageable pet.
For dog owners looking for a fun-loving, budget-friendly companion, the Redbone Coonhound stands out as a lively yet low-maintenance choice.
Quick Tips
Provide daily outdoor exercise or playtime
Brush weekly to remove loose fur and dirt
Reinforce commands consistently—they’re eager learners
5. Greyhound
The Greyhound is famous for its speed and grace, but it’s also one of the most affordable dogs to own. Despite their athletic build, they’re surprisingly low-maintenance and thrive on simple routines. With minimal grooming needs and excellent overall health, they’re ideal for cost-conscious families.
Though they’re known as sprinters, Greyhounds are relaxed at home and love lounging after short bursts of exercise. A few brisk walks or play sessions a day keep them happy. Their calm temperament makes them adaptable pets, fitting comfortably into both apartments and houses.
Their sleek, short coat requires almost no grooming—an occasional brushing is enough. This simplicity cuts grooming costs significantly compared to thicker-coated breeds. Combined with modest food requirements, they’re gentle on the wallet.
Greyhounds also enjoy long lifespans with relatively few health complications. Routine vet checkups and quality nutrition support their well-being without frequent medical expenses.
For anyone seeking an elegant, quiet companion that’s easy on upkeep and expenses, the Greyhound is a perfect match. Their affectionate nature and effortless charm make them beloved family pets around the world.
Quick Tips
Provide short, daily walks or sprints for exercise
Keep a cozy bed—they love lounging indoors
Brush weekly to remove dust and maintain coat shine
6. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is an energetic, good-natured breed developed for endurance and scent tracking. Known for its stamina and independent streak, it’s also one of the most affordable dog breeds due to low grooming needs and strong overall health.
Bred for outdoor activity, Foxhounds love exercise—runs, hikes, or long walks suit them well. Keeping them active replaces costly behavioral training, as they’re happiest when moving. Their athletic nature pairs perfectly with owners who enjoy the outdoors.
Their short, sleek coat is easy to maintain with minimal brushing. With no need for professional grooming, expenses stay low. Their sturdy constitution also means fewer unexpected vet bills compared to more delicate breeds.
American Foxhounds are friendly, loyal, and great with children. Early socialization ensures good manners, but their affectionate nature makes them naturally warm family companions.
For those wanting a lively, low-cost pet that loves open spaces, the American Foxhound is a perfect choice—hardworking, loving, and wonderfully uncomplicated.
Quick Tips
Schedule daily runs or hikes for physical stimulation
Keep consistent routines—they thrive on structure
Brush occasionally to maintain coat health and shine
7. English Setter
The English Setter is an elegant, athletic breed with a kind, easygoing personality. Originally bred as a bird dog, it’s now cherished as a friendly companion. Despite its stylish appearance, it’s considered one of the least expensive breeds to own due to manageable care needs.
Their coat, while feathery and beautiful, requires only regular brushing and occasional trims. With at-home care, grooming costs stay low. Their overall robust health and moderate appetite further help reduce long-term expenses.
English Setters are affectionate and gentle, thriving in family settings. They get along well with kids, other pets, and guests, making them ideal for sociable households. Their cheerful, tolerant temperament ensures they fit comfortably into active or relaxed lifestyles.
This breed enjoys daily walks and outdoor adventures but doesn’t demand excessive exercise. Moderate activity keeps them healthy and content, helping avoid costly behavioral issues, as Purina points out.
For owners seeking an affordable, graceful, and loving pet, the English Setter is a wonderful fit—balancing charm, loyalty, and low upkeep beautifully.
Quick Tips
Brush several times weekly to prevent tangles
Offer moderate daily exercise to maintain fitness
Use gentle, consistent training—they respond best to kindness
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest dog breed often means looking beyond appearances to overall lifetime cost, including food, veterinary care, and pet insurance. The American Kennel Club notes that smaller breeds with low grooming requirements, like those with short hair, typically have lower vet bills and fewer health problems than some larger breeds prone to hip dysplasia or dental problems. Choosing mixed-breed dogs or adopting from local shelters can further reduce the total cost while offering loving homes to deserving puppies.
Many purebred dogs remain relatively affordable when purchased from reputable breeders at affordable prices and cared for with regular medical care. Other least expensive dog breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Rat Terrier, Australian Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Beagle, Border Collie, Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, Pug, and Dachshunds, are popular dog breeds and cheapest dogs with little grooming needs, small size, and predictable annual cost across the dog’s lifetime—a perfect example of smart, budget-friendly companionship.
