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Puppy Guide

Puppy First Year Cost Guide

What to expect financially in your puppy's first year, from supplies to vet visits.

Estimated First Year Total

$740 - $5,320+

Cost Breakdown

Initial Setup

Adoption/Purchase

Shelter vs breeder

$50 - $2,000+

Crate

$30 - $150

Bed

$20 - $100

Food & Water Bowls

$10 - $50

Collar, Leash, ID Tags

$15 - $75

Veterinary Care

Initial Exam

$50 - $150

Puppy Vaccines (series)

$75 - $200

Rabies Vaccine

$15 - $35

Spay/Neuter

Low-cost clinics available

$50 - $500

Microchip

$25 - $60

Ongoing Costs

Food (year)

$200 - $700

Flea/Tick Prevention

$100 - $300

Heartworm Prevention

$50 - $200

Grooming

Varies by breed

$0 - $500

Training Classes

$50 - $300

Supplies Checklist

Essential

Recommended

Optional

Baby gates$20-50

Vet Visit Timeline

1
6-8 weeks

First Puppy Visit

Physical examFirst DHPP vaccineDewormingFecal test

May already be done by breeder/shelter

2
10-12 weeks

Second Puppy Visit

DHPP boosterDewormingDiscuss heartworm/flea prevention
3
14-16 weeks

Third Puppy Visit

Final DHPP boosterRabies vaccineMicrochip
4
6 months

Spay/Neuter

Spay/neuter surgeryPre-surgical bloodwork (optional)

Timing varies - discuss with your vet

5
1 year

Annual Wellness

Physical examVaccine boostersHeartworm testFecal test

For detailed vaccine information, see our dog vaccine cost guide.

Save on Puppy Vaccines

Find low-cost vaccine clinics and affordable spay/neuter services near you.

Find Low-Cost ClinicsFirst Vet Visit Guide

Note: Cost estimates are for educational purposes only and vary significantly by location, provider, breed, and individual pet needs. Always verify current prices directly with providers. This is not medical advice.