Did you know you can welcome a big, lovable dog into your life without draining your wallet? While large dogs often carry a reputation for big appetites and bigger expenses, some breeds are surprisingly budget-friendly to own and maintain.
Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or looking to expand your furry family, it’s possible to find a gentle giant that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. The key is knowing which breeds are naturally low-maintenance, healthy, and adaptable, all factors that keep long-term costs in check. From calm companions to playful protectors, some large dogs are easier on your finances than you might expect.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the cheapest dog breeds, covering what makes them cost-effective and why they’re still wonderful pets. Big love doesn’t have to mean a big bill. Let’s find your perfect match.
Most Affordable Large Dog Breeds Not Breaking the Bank
1. Collie
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Price range: $800-$2,000
According to the AKC, the elegant and intelligent Collie was originally developed in the Scottish Highlands as a herding dog.
Collies are known for their loyalty and gentle nature, especially around children. Their even temperament and eagerness to please make them a great fit for families and first-time dog owners.
The recurring cost of owning a Collie typically ranges from $275 to $570 per month. This includes food, grooming, health care, and routine expenses, making it relatively manageable for a large dog.
Health-wise, Collies can be prone to Collie Eye Anomaly and may carry the MDR1 gene, which affects their sensitivity to certain medications. Responsible breeding and regular vet checks help manage these risks.
They require consistent grooming, particularly the rough-coated variety, and need daily exercise to stay mentally and physically fit.
Fun Fact
The Collie gained worldwide fame through the beloved television character “Lassie,” boosting the breed’s popularity across generations.
2. Dalmatian
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Price range: $600-$2,000
The Dalmatian is a sleek, muscular breed standing 19–23 inches tall, known for its striking black or liver-colored spots. Originally used as carriage dogs, they have a long history of working alongside horses and fire brigades.
They are incredibly energetic and require regular physical activity to prevent boredom or behavior issues. Daily exercise, structured play, and early training are essential to help them thrive.
As per PetMD, Dalmatians are fairly low-maintenance in terms of grooming due to their short coat, although they do shed year-round. They benefit from high-quality nutrition and consistent vet care.
The breed is prone to certain health conditions like deafness and urinary issues, so responsible breeding and regular checkups are important. Despite these, they often enjoy a healthy, active life when well cared for.
This breed fits best with experienced dog owners or families that can match their energy and provide structured environments.
Fun Fact
Dalmatian puppies are born pure white, with their iconic spots developing gradually during their first few weeks of life.
3. English Setter
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Price range: $600-$3,000
The English Setter is a graceful, medium-to-large sporting dog originally bred for locating and pointing game birds. Males typically weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, with females slightly smaller. They are known for their long, flowing, feathered coat and speckled coloring, often described as “belton.”
English Setters are affectionate, friendly, and highly sociable with people and other pets. They thrive in active households and need regular exercise to stay physically and mentally balanced.
Puppy prices generally range from $600 to $1,500, although some can reach up to $3,000 depending on pedigree and breeder reputation. Monthly food costs are moderate, estimated between $50 and $90 depending on activity level and dietary quality.
Their long, silky coat requires consistent grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Weekly brushing and occasional trimming are recommended, which can add to grooming expenses over time.
While English Setters are generally healthy, they can be prone to conditions like hip dysplasia, deafness, and thyroid issues. Regular veterinary care and preventive screenings are important for managing long-term health costs.
Fun Fact
English Setters were nicknamed “gentleman’s hunting dogs” due to their elegant appearance and calm, mannerly demeanor in the field.
4. German Wirehaired Pointer
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Price range: $600-$2,000
The German Wirehaired Pointer (GWP) is a rugged and versatile sporting breed bred in 19th-century Germany for hunting on both land and water. Males typically weigh 60–70 pounds and are built for stamina and rugged terrain.
This breed is ideal for active individuals or families who enjoy hiking, running, or outdoor adventures. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, GWPs may become restless or destructive.
A German Wirehaired Pointer from a breeder typically costs between $600 and $2,000, depending on pedigree. Their overall care costs are moderate for a dog of their size and working breed status.
They have a dense, wiry coat that is weather-resistant and requires regular brushing. Grooming is not overly demanding, but upkeep is important to prevent skin issues.
This breed thrives on companionship and purpose. They are happiest when given tasks or training routines and form strong bonds with their families.
Fun Fact
The breed’s German name, “Drahthaar,” translates to “wire hair,” referencing their rough coat that provides protection against rough brush and water.
5. Redbone Coonhound
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Price range: $500-$1,200
The Redbone Coonhound is a medium-to-large hound breed known for its beautiful, solid red coat and athletic, balanced build. It was developed in the southeastern United States for tracking and treeing raccoons, with a keen sense of smell and strong hunting instincts.
Though bred for endurance in the field, Redbones are affectionate, family-oriented, and tend to be good with children. They enjoy plenty of outdoor activity and thrive in homes with space to roam.
Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming—usually just weekly brushing—and their floppy ears should be checked regularly for moisture and debris. They are generally low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and bathing.
Redbone Coonhounds are considered one of the more affordable large breeds. Puppy prices typically range from $500 to $1,200, and their monthly care costs are fairly modest compared to other large dogs.
Temperament-wise, they are known for being friendly, even-tempered, and highly devoted to their families while still retaining an independent streak.
Fun Fact
The Redbone Coonhound starred in the classic novel Where the Red Fern Grows, which helped introduce the breed to many young readers and dog lovers around the world.
6. Greyhound
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Price range: $200-$1,500
Greyhounds are tall, slim, and incredibly fast dogs that have been bred for thousands of years as hunting and racing animals. Despite their racing background, they are surprisingly calm and gentle pets.
Often called “couch potatoes,” Greyhounds are known for being laid-back and quiet indoors, making them great for apartment living as long as they get regular walks and short runs.
Their grooming needs are minimal thanks to their short, thin coat, which only requires occasional brushing. They are also known for having fewer inherited health problems than many other breeds.
Greyhounds are affordable to adopt, especially retired racers, which are usually available through adoption programs for around $200 to $500. Buying a puppy from a breeder costs more, ranging from $500 to $1,500 or higher.
These dogs are well-mannered, good with children, and adapt quickly to home life after their racing careers end.
Fun Fact
Despite being the fastest dog breed—capable of speeds up to 40 mph—Greyhounds spend most of their day napping, earning them the nickname “the 40-mph couch potato.”
7. American Foxhound
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Price range: $400-$1,200
The American Foxhound is a tall, lean hunting hound with strong stamina and an easygoing personality. Developed in the United States, this breed was originally used for tracking and hunting foxes in packs.
Foxhounds are friendly and good-natured, but need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Without enough stimulation, they can become bored or vocal, so they do best in homes with active owners.
They have short, easy-care coats that require little more than a weekly brush and the occasional bath. Like most hounds, they are prone to ear infections and need regular ear checks.
This breed is among the more affordable large dogs, with puppies typically costing between $400 and $700, although some pedigreed pups may go up to $1,500 depending on lineage.
American Foxhounds are loyal, independent, and get along well with children and other dogs, especially when raised with them.
Fun Fact
George Washington was one of the earliest breeders of the American Foxhound and is credited with helping establish the breed in the U.S.
FAQs
Do affordable large dogs still need regular vet checkups?
Yes, even the cheapest dogs require routine veterinary care to stay in good health. Frequent vet visits help catch health issues early and reduce long-term costs.
Are large dogs more expensive to feed?
Generally, yes. Bigger dogs require more dog food daily, which increases monthly feeding expenses compared to small breeds or tiny dogs.
Can I find affordable large dog breeds for adoption?
Absolutely. Many local shelters and rescues offer mixed-breed and purebred options with low adoption fees, helping pet parents save money on pet ownership.
Conclusion
Owning a dog doesn’t have to drain your budget. Many affordable dog breeds are generally healthy, have minimal grooming needs, and come with lower vet bills. While grooming costs and dog food vary, breeds with a low-maintenance coat can significantly reduce long-term expenses.
Pet insurance also helps manage surprise health issues like hip dysplasia or dental problems. Choosing a healthy breed suited to your lifestyle can lead to a long lifespan and fewer frequent vet visits.
Other dog breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Manchester Terrier, Rat Terrier, Border Terrier, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Bichon Frise, and even the Chihuahua or Blue Heeler, also rank among the most affordable and robust health options for pet parents looking to save money while gaining a furry friend.
