Getting a dog seems like a great idea until you see the price tags at pet stores and breeder websites.
Many new pet parents feel shocked when they learn how much some dog breeds cost upfront, not to mention ongoing expenses like food, vet bills, and grooming. But here’s something most people don’t know: you can find loving, loyal companions without spending thousands of dollars.
Some dog breeds cost much less to buy and maintain than others.
This blog will show new pet parents what is the cheapest dog breed options are available, plus reveal smart ways to save money while still giving your future furry friend the best care possible.
Factors That Make a Dog Breed Affordable
When looking for budget-friendly dog options, several key factors determine how much you’ll spend on your new pet. These elements affect both the initial cost and long-term expenses of dog ownership.
- Size matters for ongoing costs – Smaller dogs eat less food, need smaller beds, and cost less for medications based on weight
- Common breeds cost less upfront – Popular breeds like Beagles and Labs have more breeders, which drives down purchase prices
- Low grooming needs save money – Short-haired dogs require fewer professional grooming sessions compared to long-haired breeds
- Good health records reduce vet bills – Breeds with fewer genetic health problems mean lower medical expenses over time
- Calm temperament prevents damage – Dogs that don’t chew furniture or destroy items save replacement costs
- Local availability affects price – Breeds common in your area typically cost less than rare ones that need shipping
What Is the Cheapest Dog Breed to Buy and Maintain
Finding a furry friend that fits your budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for less love or loyalty. Many dog breeds offer all the companionship you want without the hefty price tag. These budget-friendly options can save you money both upfront and throughout their lifetime.
If you’re wondering what is the cheapest dog breed, this list will help you find the perfect match for your wallet and your heart.
1. Chihuahua
These tiny dogs pack huge personalities into their small frames. Chihuahuas weigh just 3-6 pounds, which means they eat very little food.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$800 |
| Special Traits | Loyal, bold, prefer other Chihuahuas |
| Best Feature | Minimal grooming and food costs |
2. Beagle
Beagles are cheerful, family-friendly dogs that love spending time with people and other pets. Their short coat needs only weekly brushing.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $400-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Great with kids, excellent sense of smell |
| Best Feature | Low grooming needs, healthy breed |
3. Dachshund
These “wiener dogs” are small but full of personality. Their compact size means lower food costs and smaller accessories.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$1,200 |
| Special Traits | Playful, curious, devoted lap dogs |
| Best Feature | Small food portions, minimal grooming |
4. American Hairless Terrier
With no fur to maintain, these dogs eliminate grooming costs completely. They stay under 25 pounds when fully grown.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $600-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Energetic, playful, hypoallergenic |
| Best Feature | Zero grooming costs, small food needs |
5. Pug
These wrinkled companions are affordable and low-maintenance. Their small size keeps food costs down, and their short coat needs basic care.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $350-$500 |
| Special Traits | Charming, affectionate, calm temperament |
| Best Feature | Cheapest purchase price, minimal grooming |
6. Rat Terrier
Originally used by President Roosevelt, these smart dogs are easy to train and maintain. They make excellent family pets.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $350-$500 |
| Special Traits | Clever, loves children, energetic |
| Best Feature | Low maintenance, healthy breed |
7. Border Collie
One of the smartest breeds, Border Collies are healthy and hardy. Their intelligence makes training easier and less expensive.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $525-$800 |
| Special Traits | Highly intelligent, loyal, herding instincts |
| Best Feature | Excellent health, easy to train |
8. Dalmatian
Famous for their spots, Dalmatians need little grooming and are generally healthy. They develop their trademark spots around 2 weeks old.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $700-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Unique spots, “Dalmatian smile,” loyal |
| Best Feature | Low grooming needs, minimal health issues |
9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
These short-legged charmers are calm and affectionate. Originally bred for herding, they’re smart and trainable.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $550-$1,200 |
| Special Traits | Calm, smart, good with families |
| Best Feature | Healthy breed, moderate food needs |
10. Bichon Frise
Small and cheerful, these fluffy dogs are hypoallergenic and don’t shed much. They stay under 18 pounds.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $525-$700 |
| Special Traits | Hypoallergenic, cheerful, playful |
| Best Feature | Small size, minimal shedding |
11. Greyhound
Despite being large dogs, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-maintenance. They’re calm indoor companions who don’t need extensive exercise.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$800 |
| Special Traits | Fast sprinters, gentle, quiet indoors |
| Best Feature | Low maintenance despite size |
12. American Foxhound
These healthy hounds are sweet-tempered and get along well with children and other dogs. They need regular exercise but are otherwise easy to care for.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $400-$800 |
| Special Traits | Good with kids, loves to howl |
| Best Feature | Very healthy, easy-care coat |
13. Jack Russell Terrier
Small but energetic, these terriers are smart and trainable. They weigh under 20 pounds and stay physically fit.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$1,200 |
| Special Traits | Intelligent, energetic, theatrical |
| Best Feature | Small food needs, excellent health |
14. Manchester Terrier
These sleek dogs have smooth coats that need no professional grooming. They’re gentle with family but shy with strangers.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $600-$800 |
| Special Traits | Gentle, affectionate, smooth coat |
| Best Feature | No grooming costs, small size |
15. Otterhound
Despite their shaggy appearance, these rare dogs don’t need expensive salon visits. They’re playful and good-natured.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $550-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Shaggy coat, playful, rare breed |
| Best Feature | No salon visits needed |
16. German Wirehaired Pointer
With weather-resistant coats, these dogs don’t need expensive protective gear. They’re smart and eager to learn.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $700-$1,200 |
| Special Traits | Weather-resistant, smart, loves the outdoors |
| Best Feature | No special clothing needed, easy training |
17. Irish Terrier
Active dogs that keep themselves in good shape, Irish Terriers have low grooming needs and hardly shed.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $650-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Active, loyal, minimal shedding |
| Best Feature | Great health from activity, low grooming |
18. Australian Terrier
These hardy terriers are adaptable and healthy. They have minimal grooming needs and don’t require much food.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $550-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Adaptable, alert, loyal |
| Best Feature | Excellent health, low food needs |
19. Schipperke
Originally favored by Belgian royalty, these small black dogs are confident and curious. Their coats only need weekly brushing.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $650-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Confident, curious, mischievous |
| Best Feature | Weekly brushing only, generally healthy |
20. Papillon
Despite their fancy appearance, these toy dogs are reasonably priced. They need moderate grooming and eat very little.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $400-$800 |
| Special Traits | Protective, energetic, looks expensive |
| Best Feature | Small food needs, moderate grooming |
21. Chinese Crested Hairless
Another hairless breed, these dogs have zero grooming costs related to fur. They’re athletic and weigh just 10-13 pounds.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$1,000 |
| Special Traits | Hairless, athletic, tiny frame |
| Best Feature | No fur grooming, very small size |
22. English Setter
These beautiful dogs with silky coats don’t actually need professional grooming if you brush them weekly at home.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $350-$800 |
| Special Traits | Gorgeous coat, devoted, gentle |
| Best Feature | DIY grooming is possible, healthy breed |
23. Miniature Pinscher
These spirited small dogs have big personalities. They’re naturally clean and have short coats that need minimal care.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approx. Purchase Cost | $500-$800 |
| Special Traits | Confident, energetic, distinctive gait |
| Best Feature | Naturally clean, minimal grooming |
Tips for Adopting or Buying on a Tight Budget
Getting a dog when money is tight requires smart planning and research. You can still bring home a loving companion without breaking your budget. These practical tips will help you save money while finding the perfect four-legged family member.
- Check local animal shelters first – Adoption fees are much lower than breeder prices and often include spaying, neutering, and initial vaccinations
- Ask shelters about what is the cheapest dog breed – Shelter staff can guide you toward budget-friendly breeds that fit your lifestyle and budget
- Consider adult dogs over puppies – Older dogs cost less to adopt and skip expensive puppy training and frequent vet visits
- Look for breed-specific rescue groups – These organizations focus on particular breeds and often have lower fees than commercial breeders
- Time your adoption during special events – Many shelters offer reduced fees during adoption drives and holiday promotions
- Avoid pet stores and puppy mills – These sources charge premium prices and often sell dogs with hidden health problems
Hidden Costs to Consider When Choosing a Budget Dog Breed
When asking what is the cheapest dog breed, many people only think about the purchase price.
Food expenses vary greatly between breeds. Large dogs eat much more than small ones, which means higher monthly grocery bills. Some breeds also need special diets for health conditions, making their food even more expensive.
Vet bills can surprise new owners. Even healthy breeds need regular checkups, vaccines, and preventive care. Emergency visits for accidents or sudden illness can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Training costs matter too. Some dogs need professional help with behavior issues or basic commands. Group classes cost less than private sessions, but both add to your budget.
Don’t forget about supplies like beds, leashes, toys, and grooming tools. These items need replacing over time, especially with active or destructive dogs.
Wrapping It Up
Choosing an affordable dog doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy and companionship that comes with pet ownership.
From tiny Chihuahuas to gentle Greyhounds, budget-friendly breeds prove that love has no price tag.
Smart planning, considering hidden costs, and looking for adoption options will help you make the best choice for both your family and your finances. Your perfect furry companion is out there waiting, and they don’t have to cost a fortune.
What budget-friendly breed caught your attention? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
