For most people, the benefits of owning a pet far outweigh the costs. However, responsible dog owners realize that love and companionship don't come cheap. One-time ownership costs such as purchase/adoption fees, spaying/neutering and training average $2,100.00 according to an online survey conducted by the American Kennel Club (New York). Annual ownership costs, covering food, grooming, veterinarian visits and so on, averaged nearly $2,500. Here's a closer look at the costs:

 

Purchase/adoption fees        $646

Spaying/neutering                $160

Training fees and supplies    $340

General supplies             

  (bowls, crates, leashes)     $350

Emergency vet visits

  and surgery                       $631

 

Dog events                        $457

Food                                 $446

Grooming                           $190

Ongoing training                 $254

Pet sitting/walking/

    boarding                        $223

Toys and treats                  $217

Travel                                $279

Veterinary care                  $423

 

In general, costs decreased as the size of the dog decreased, according to the survey. Annual expenses were the highest for giant breeds ($3,321) and the lowest for small breeds ($1,831). However annual expenses for medium breeds were slightly higher than for large breeds $2,628 vs. $2,569).