OneMain Financial: How to Plan for the Cost of a New Family Dog in Las Cruces

Bringing home a new dog can be a joyful and exciting decision for a family. Dogs are loving, loyal and fun to have around. But before anyone falls in love with those puppy eyes, it’s important to be prepared for how much it costs to own a dog. 

Once the costs are clear, it’s also important to think about how to afford them. Some families explore options like loans in Las Cruces to help cover the expenses associated with caring for a dog. 

Whether a family is ready to move forward now or just starting to plan ahead, here’s what they need to know about the costs involved in caring for a new four-legged family member. 

Budget for adoption or breeder fees 

The first big decision is whether to adopt from a shelter or buy from a breeder. Adoption fees usually range from $50 to $300. Buying from a breeder can cost anywhere from $500 to over $5,000 depending on the breed. 

One place to check in Las Cruces is the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley, which, as a city and county open-admission municipal shelter, offers low-cost adoptions, vaccines and microchipping.  

Consider the price of basic supplies 

As soon as a new dog comes home, some essential supplies will be needed to keep it safe, healthy, and happy. 

Feeding a dog is a regular expense. The cost really depends on the dog’s size and breed. Small dogs might need around $275 worth of food each year, while larger breeds could cost up to $800 annually in food and treats.  

Families may pay between $150 and $350 for basics like a leash, collar, ID tags, food bowls, brush, dog toothpaste, shampoo and a bed. Depending on the size, a dog crate or kennel may cost an additional $50 to $200. And don’t forget about cleaning supplies.  

Prepare for healthcare and grooming needs 

Just like people, dogs need regular checkups and vaccines. The first vet visit might include: 

• A physical exam 

• Vaccinations 

• A heartworm test 

• Flea and tick prevention 

• Spay or neuter surgery 

First-year veterinary costs can range from $215 to $400. After that, yearly checkups might cost between $150 and $520, not including emergency care. 

Unexpected emergencies, surgeries or long-term health problems could end up costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars, so it could be helpful to start an emergency fund for this purpose. Looking into pet insurance or payment plans with a local vet may also be worthwhile. Some vet offices may also offer wellness plans or annual memberships that help spread out costs across the year. 

Keeping up with grooming may be another important part of a dog’s overall health. Some dogs need regular grooming, especially those with long or curly coats. Grooming can include baths, haircuts, nail trims and brushing. While some families choose to do basic grooming at home, professional grooming may still be needed every 6 weeks or so. 

Annual grooming costs can range from $50 to $500 depending on the dog’s needs. Breeds like poodles, doodles and shih tzus often require more grooming than short-haired dogs. 

Think through training and socializing  

Training helps dogs behave well at home and in public. It also helps them feel safe and secure. There are several types of training options: 

• Group classes: $150 to $250 for 6–8 sessions 

• Private lessons: $100 to $130 per hour 

While puppies benefit the most, older dogs can learn too. Investing in training early can save money, time and stress later on. 

Some families also sign up for dog walking or doggy daycare services if they’re away from home during the day, which might help their dog become more comfortable with other dogs and people, too.  

Save extra for surprise bills 

Dogs often come with extra costs that may not be obvious at first, especially to new pet owners. These could include: 

• City or state license fees (about $5–$20 per year) 

• Paying for pet-sitting or boarding while traveling 

• Buying dog clothes for winter, puzzle toys for stimulation or agility gear for outdoor adventures 

Plan ahead for peace of mind   

Whether it’s an energetic puppy or a calm older dog, bringing a pet into the home is exciting, but it also comes with a variety of new, and potentially expensive, responsibilities. Providing a good home for a dog doesn’t take a huge income, but making a budget and saving in advance can make things easier. By planning ahead and understanding the costs, families can be better financially prepared, make sure the dog has everything it needs to live a happy and healthy life and enjoy the fun that comes with having a furry companion. 

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Name: Sonakshi Murze
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