3. Dog Food

Don't forget about treats for snacks and training.
Cost: $7.00

You may also want to buy extra vitamins.
For one month: $10.00.

4. New Dog Check-up

 Your new dog needs a check-up from the veterinarian. Basic appointments run from $30.00 to $44.00.

Young pups and adults need shots to protect them from illness. Shots can run $15.00 and higher

   6. Grooming

Your dog will need regular grooming. You can do it yourself if you have an easy-care kind of dog. You will need to buy shampoo and if your dog has fleas or a skin problem, you'll need special shampoos. Cost of shampoo: $10.00

If you have a breed that needs special trimming, you will have to take it to a dog groomer. Depending on the size and condition of the dog, it can cost anywhere from $15.00 to $60.00 or higher.

7. Obedience Training

The cost can be anywhere from $25.00 for a year of classes through a club to $150.00 for 8 weeks of private training.

Check-Ups

Unfortunately, most dogs get sick at some point during their lifetime. They could get something as simple as an upset stomach or as serious as cancer.

Will your family be prepared for the vet bills? We don't always want to think about these things, but they do happen and they do cost money. Cost during regular vet hours: $50.00 and up. Twenty-four hours in an emergency clinic: $1,000.00.

You should have your female dog spayed or your male dog neutered to prevent unwanted pregnancies. For more about this, see Too Many Dogs.

If needed, call the local humane society or animal control. They can give you phone numbers for low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Cost of surgery: $100.00 or more.

Teeth-Cleaning

After many years of eating food, your dog may need his teeth cleaned. Sometimes this involves anesthetic and can cost as much as $200.00. You can help prevent this procedure by regularly brushing your dog's teeth and feeding them with bones that help clean tartar. 

As you can see, owning a dog costs money. Sit down with your parents and be honest about your family's ability to pay for a dog's needs. If everyone knows what to expect, there should be no surprises.

Choosing a Dog for Dummies, by Chris Walkowicz, July 15, 2001
From an Amazon.com reader: Chris Walkowicz's Choosing A Dog For Dummies is a simple, straightforward, easy-to-read, and dependable introduction on how to decide which pet qualities you value most and are compatible with your own particular life style; all of the practical steps to take in choosing a great dog for you; as well as all aspects of properly caring for your canine pet. Additionally, readers can find out about breed rescue, and there's an invaluable advice about selecting a "kid-friendly" dog. If you are considering the acquisition of a canine companion for you or your family, read Chris Walkowicz's Choosing A Dog For Dummies! Written for adults

Paws to Consider, by Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson, September 1, 1999
As compassionate as they are knowledgeable, Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson tell you how to avoid the pitfalls before you lose your patience or money. Their combined expertise and honesty will help you choose wisely, with your eyes wide open as well as your heart. The result will be a dog you can happily live with...and who will reward you with unconditional love. Written for adults.

The Idiot's Guide to Getting and Owning a Dog, by Sheila Webster Boneham, August 26, 2002
From an Amazon.com reader: This book is must for every potential or real dog owner's bookshelf! Ms. Boneham does an excellent job of helping you through the steps of choosing and living with your dog. The book is an excellent source of of information itself and includes many references, both on the Web and otherwise. In the future, this book will be part of all my puppy's going-to-their-new-home bag. Written for adults.