If you want a furry companion but are low on budget, you can adopt a low-cost dog breed. Cheap or low-maintenance dog breeds are an ideal fit for thrifty owners who want to save a few bucks and yet bring a new companion home.
They do not have high purchase prices or ongoing maintenance costs. For instance, small dog breeds usually eat less, so it can cut down food costs. Similarly, they are less prone to certain canine diseases compared to large breeds. It can significantly reduce veterinary bills.
Low-maintenance dog breeds also have fewer grooming requirements. You do not need to spend hundreds of dollars on professional grooming every few weeks. Despite their low costs, these canines make loving pets.
Explore some top low-cost dog breeds for thrifty owners.
Top Low-Cost Dog Breeds for Thrifty Owners
1. Beagle
Purchase Price: $500-$1,500
Originally bred as hunting dogs, Beagles make perfect family pets due to their affectionate nature. They are one of the cheapest dog breeds due to several reasons. Their small size means they do not need much food.
They have a short coat that does not need much grooming, so you do not need to spend a lot of money on maintaining their coats. A simple brushing routine at home and regular exercise can help Beagles lead a happy and healthy life.
Beagles are incredibly loyal and eager to please. Being highly trainable, they are well-suited for first-time dog owners. According to WebMD, Beagles possess bundles of energy and need an ample amount of exercise every day for physical and mental stimulation.
These playful and curious canines love spending time outdoors. Beagles are generally healthy dogs having long lifespan. But they may become prone to certain health problems as they age, like all other breeds.
2. Chihuahua
Purchase Price: $700 – $3,000
These tiny pooches are loved for their larger-than-life personalities. Chihuahuas make an ideal fit for pet owners who want to save money. Thanks to their small size, they do not eat much, so pet food may not cost you an arm and a leg.
Chihuahuas are generally healthy dogs, but very small Chihuahuas are prone to some serious health problems. Purchasing a relatively larger dog from a responsible breeder can help overcome this problem. Being a small dog, Chis doesn’t take up much space.
This, combined with their moderate exercise needs make them well-suited for apartment living. Plus, indoor play sessions and a few short walks provide them with adequate exercise. So, you do not need to hire a dog walker to take them for long walks.
Chihuahuas are low-maintenance in terms of coat care as well. They do not need a professional groomer. However, Chis have a single coat which makes them intolerant to extreme cold. So, prepare yourself to purchase a doggy sweater in winter.
Chihuahuas are smart dogs with an eager-to-please nature, according to PetMD. They may be a bit strong-willed, but they learn best with consistent, positive reinforcement-based training.
3. Dachshund
Purchase Price: $500 – $3,500
Also known as sausage dogs or Weiner dogs, Dachshunds are one of the most low-maintenance dog breeds. They were originally bred for hunting and can be easily recognized by their elongated bodies and floppy ears.
These lovable canines do not require extensive exercise and can spend their entire day snuggling on the couch. However, they do need regular physical activity to strengthen their long backs. Smooth-coated Dachshunds need minimal grooming, making them an affordable dog breed.
Dachshunds are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, so do not worry about hefty vet bills. However, they are prone to some health problems like Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV), obesity, and orthopedic conditions.
For vaccinations, you can save money by taking your Doxie to a low-cost vaccination clinic. These playful and loving dogs make a great choice for first-time pet owners.
4. Pug
Purchase Price: $800 – $2,000
Loved for their soulful eyes and smooshed faces, Pugs are adorable little buddies with charming personalities. Their smooth coats do not need professional grooming and are very easy to maintain. Pugs love food and naps.
However, they don’t need plenty of food due to their small size. It means you may not need to spend a lot on pet food. These wrinkly dogs have a laid-back nature and minimal exercise needs. They are happy with a few short walks and indoor play time.
However, Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, vulnerable to certain respiratory issues. Purchasing the dog from a reputable breeder and seeking regular veterinary care can help resolve this problem. Also, do not over-exercise your Pug or take it out in hot and humid weather.
According to the American Kennel Club, Pugs were bred to be companions. These affordable canines have a sweet disposition and an eager-to-please nature.
5. Greyhound
Purchase Price: $800 – $2,500
Usually, larger breeds bring more financial commitments compared to small dogs. If you are looking for a cheap, large dog breed, you should bring home a Greyhound. Being sprinters, Greyhounds need only short bursts of running and exercise.
Once exercised properly, they can happily spend the rest of the day lounging. Greyhounds are known for their speed and gentle nature. They are calm and affectionate towards their family members and make excellent pets.
Thanks to their short coats, they are quite low-maintenance and do not demand costly professional grooming. Having lean bodies, Greyhounds eat less compared to many other dog breeds. It makes them a budget-friendly pet in the long run.
If you find purchasing a Greyhound expensive, you may consider adopting one from a shelter home. The adoption fees start at around $150 to $395.
6. Miniature Pinscher
Purchase Price: $350 to $1,300
Looking like mini Dobermans, Miniture Pinschers are easy dogs to incorporate into your household. They don’t take up much space, and their small size translates to low pet food costs. These playful, assertive, and outgoing dogs make great family companions.
Min Pins are typically healthy and robust dogs. Visiting a veterinarian on a regular basis can further help reduce the risk of certain canine disorders. That is why Min Pins are one of the most affordable dog breeds.
Adoption may cost even less, no more than $50 to $500. Their short coats also need minimal grooming to stay in top-notch condition. Brush your dog’s coat once a week to manage shedding. However, you may need to spend some money on vaccination, a microchip, and neutering.
7. Border Collie
Purchase Price: $600 – $2,500
Border Collies were originally bred as herding dogs. They thrive on physical and mental stimulation and love having a job to do. These high-energy, athletic canines need plenty of exercise for their well-being. Low initial purchase price makes the Border Collie an affordable dog breed.
They are an ideal choice for owners with an active lifestyle. Border Collies are healthy dogs not vulnerable to certain canine conditions. It can significantly reduce the amount of money spent on veterinary care. Their medium-length double coats shed moderately, but are surprisingly low-maintenance.
You do not need to take your Border Collie for professional grooming sessions every now and then. Only brush their coat regularly and bathe them monthly to help these pooches look good. With proper training and socialization, they make excellent family dogs.
Conclusion
If you are a thrifty person looking into responsible pet ownership, consider adopting a low-maintenance dog breed. Some dog breeds are quite affordable due to their low initial purchase price, while others are easier to maintain.
For instance, their short coats may not need lots of grooming. Similarly, if you adopt a small dog breed, you may not need to spend much on pet food. Remember, being low maintenance does not mean they are not loyal.
Like the most expensive breeds, these dogs also bond tightly with their owners and get along nicely with children and other pets.
