Thinking about adding a furry friend to your family? It’s hard to resist those puppy-dog eyes—especially when your kids are begging for a new four-legged companion.
But before you say “yes” to wagging tails and wet noses, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of dog ownership. Food, grooming, veterinary care, supplies, and unexpected expenses can add up quickly. The good news? Not all dog breeds cost the same to care for.
Some are naturally low-cost dog breeds due to their smaller size, lower food requirements, minimal grooming needs, and generally robust health. Choosing the right breed can make a big difference in keeping expenses manageable while still enjoying all the love and companionship a dog brings.
If you’re eager to welcome a pup into your home but need to be mindful of your budget, you’re in the right place. Here are affordable dog breeds that offer loyalty, affection, and fun—without putting too much strain on the wallet of pet owners.
Top Budget-Friendly Dog Breeds for Pet Parents
1. Redbone Coonhound
If you’re looking for a pooch that’s equal parts charm and chill, meet the Redbone Coonhound. With a coat as shiny and red as a freshly polished cherry, these dogs practically scream, “I’m stylish, but I don’t need fancy spa treatments.”
Laid-back and gentle, Redbone Coonhounds are the perfect companions for pet parents who enjoy long, lazy weekends and the occasional outdoor adventure.
Despite their hunting dog heritage, they’re more likely to lounge on the couch than chase raccoons in your backyard… well, unless you really tempt them. Here’s where the budget-friendly magic comes in: these dogs won’t drain your wallet.
The average purchase price is around $650, and grooming is almost a bargain at $31 a year. Even over a lifetime, healthcare costs stay modest, averaging around $1,500. With a lifespan of 11 to 12 years, you’ll get over a decade of cuddles, tail wags, and soulful puppy eyes without needing a second mortgage.
Plus, they’re highly intelligent, loyal, and surprisingly low-maintenance. They might not fetch your newspaper (unless you train them), but they’ll fetch your heart—and that’s priceless.
2. Beagle
Say hello to the Beagle—small in size but big in personality. Weighing in at a cozy 20 to 35 pounds, these small dogs are perfect for families who want a companion that’s compact, cuddly, and perfect both as a pet and as a hunter, as noted by Britannica.
Their modest appetite means lower food bills, which always makes the wallet wag with happiness. Beagles are friendly, happy-go-lucky, and playful, making them ideal for active households or first-time dog owners who enjoy daily walks (and maybe a few jogs if your Beagle decides they’re training for the doggy Olympics).
Their low-maintenance coat keeps grooming costs cheap—about $23 per session—and with short fur, brushing at home often does the trick. You can adopt a Beagle for roughly $650, and with a lifespan of 11 to 15 years, you’re signing up for over a decade of tail-wagging fun.
Just be aware, though: this breed has a strong hunting instinct, so a curious Beagle may sneak off on “sniff missions” if you’re not careful. And yes, they can be a little sly around the food cupboard—hide your snacks at your own risk!
While their minimum lifetime healthcare costs can add up due to things like spinal problems, hip dysplasia, chronic ear infections, and allergies, Beagles are still considered one of the most affordable, loving companions out there. They’re basically the budget-friendly sweetheart who also keeps life interesting.
3. American Foxhound
Meet the American Foxhound—a classic all-American pup with a heart as big as its hunting heritage. While they may not be a household name like the Beagle or Redbone Coonhound, these good-natured dogs are friendly, low-maintenance, and surprisingly adaptable.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they get along well with kids, other dogs, and even cats, making them an ideal choice for families who want a gentle, loyal companion. Despite their regal hunting roots, Foxhounds are pretty easy on the wallet.
You can bring one home for about $475, and regular grooming is a breeze, with bathing costs around $27. Healthcare is also affordable, with potential lifetime medical costs starting at $1,500—so your bank account won’t feel hunted down.
With a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, American Foxhounds offer over a decade of tail wags, playful snoots, and soulful doggy eyes. They’re active enough to enjoy a good run or hike, but calm enough to lounge with the family afterward.
Just remember, these pups love to roam, so a secure yard or leash walks are a must unless you want your new friend exploring the neighborhood like a tiny four-legged adventurer.
In short: the American Foxhound is the affordable, friendly, and classic American companion who’s ready to charm your whole family—no fancy pedigree required.
4. English Setter
If elegance had a four-legged form, it might just be the English Setter. With its long, feathered coat and graceful stance, this hunting dog looks like it just stepped out of a doggy fashion show—without demanding designer grooming bills to match.
English Setters are surprisingly budget-friendly. You can bring one home for about $350, and keeping that gorgeous coat tangle-free costs around $40 per bath—a small price for daily doses of canine charm.
Their potential lifetime healthcare costs average around $3,900, so even unexpected vet visits won’t completely drain your wallet. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, these dogs offer plenty of time for games of fetch, gentle strolls, and lots of tail-wagging companionship.
They’re perfect for families who want a friendly, active pup without the premium price tag. Just be prepared to brush that feathered coat regularly—your English Setter’s hair may look like it’s auditioning for a shampoo commercial if left unchecked!
In short, the English Setter is affordable, elegant, and full of personality—proof that a stylish dog doesn’t have to break the bank.
5. Dachshund
Meet the Dachshund, also lovingly known as the “wiener dog” or “sausage dog.” With their famously long bodies and short legs, these pups are basically the dachshund version of a compact sports car—full of high energy, personality, and guaranteed to turn heads wherever they go, PetMD noted.
Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds may be small, but they come with big spunk and curiosity. They’re surprisingly budget-friendly, with an average purchase price of $500 and a low bathing cost of about $23.
Plus, their playful personalities mean you’ll get endless entertainment without expensive toys or gadgets—though they might try to steal yours. These little charmers live for 12 to 15 years, giving you over a decade of cuddles, wiggles, and hilarious antics.
Their long backs can be prone to fewer health issues, so expect healthcare costs over their lifetime for things like back problems. Think of it as an investment in a dog who will happily worm their way into your heart… and maybe onto your lap, too.
All in all, Dachshunds are affordable, lovable, and endlessly entertaining, proving that sometimes the best things really do come in long, low packages.
6. Boston Terrier
Say hello to the Boston Terrier, the “American Gentleman” of the dog world—complete with tuxedo-like markings and a personality to match. Smart, affectionate, and even-tempered, these pups greet you like you just returned from a week-long vacation, even if you were only gone five minutes.
Boston Terriers are budget-friendly and low-maintenance. You can adopt one for around $700, and since they’re light shedders, grooming is minimal—about $30 per bath.
Their healthcare costs are also reasonable, with a lifetime minimum of roughly $3,000, depending on their needs. While Bostons have moderate exercise needs, a regular walk is usually enough before they happily settle in for couch time.
Perfect for apartment living, Boston is a loyal, playful pup without constant upkeep. They offer all the companionship with none of the drama.
In short, Boston Terriers are small, stylish, sensible, and budget-friendly, making them ideal for pet parents who want joy without breaking the bank.
7. Chihuahua
Don’t let their tiny size fool you—Chihuahuas are pint-sized bundles of personality. Weighing in at under six pounds and living a long, generally healthy life of 14 to 16 years, these little dynamos are perfect for first-time dog owners or anyone looking for a low-cost, compact companion.
Despite their celebrity reputation as purse-sized accessories, Chihuahuas are surprisingly budget-friendly.
You can bring one home for about $650, and its bathing costs average just $23. Their potential lifetime healthcare expenses hover around $5,500, which is manageable considering their long lifespan and high entertainment value.
These tiny pups don’t eat much, which keeps food costs low, and their short coats usually only need occasional brushing—no salon visits required. They’re easy to walk, fit in small spaces, and love being lap dogs.
Just be prepared: Chihuahuas can be a bit feisty. With consistent training, their temperamental tendencies can be tamed, turning your little firecracker into a well-mannered companion.
In short, Chihuahuas are affordable, lively, and loyal, proving that good things really do come in small, long-living packages.
Conclusion
Choosing an affordable dog breed doesn’t mean you have to compromise on companionship, loyalty, or fun.
Other cheap dog breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, Toy Poodles, Miniature Pinschers, French Bulldogs, and Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers offer a range of sizes, energy levels, and personalities to fit various lifestyles—whether you live in an apartment, have a busy schedule, or are looking for a playful family companion.
While these breeds may have lower initial costs or adoption fees, responsible pet parenthood still involves expenses like regular vet visits, professional grooming, daily exercise, mental stimulation, and proper care.
Many of these breeds also have minimal grooming needs or require regular brushing, making them easier to maintain for city living or busy families.
By considering both the financial and time commitments, you can select a medium- or small-sized dog that fits your lifestyle, brings joy to your home, and thrives with the love, attention, and care you provide.
