How much does a dog cost in Canada 2024?
[[translations.filterMensual]]
resultMensual [[translations.currency]]
[[translations.filterAnnual]]
resultAnnual [[translations.currency]]
Compare the best pet insurance plans on the market!
Did you know that Canadians spend over $3,500 a year on their dogs? If you are thinking of buying a dog or insuring yours for the first time, you probably want to know how much it is going to cost you.
This calculator can help you estimate the costs of owning a dog, insuring your furry companion, and help you plan your budget accordingly.
In the following text, you will also find answers to commonly asked questions like "how much does it cost to neuter a dog", "how much does an x ray cost for a dog", "how much does it cost to microchip a dog", and more.
How much does it cost to own a dog?
HelloSafe's research into the cost of owning a dog suggests that you should expect to spend anywhere between $3,530 and $4,410 a year on your pet.
Now, are you wondering how much a dog costs per month? If we break this figure down into a monthly spend, we are looking at an average of between $294 and $368.
Yes, owning a dog can be an expensive affair. There are food costs, boarding costs when you are away, and, of course, the healthcare costs. Particularly, if your dog is injured or becomes unwell then veterinary costs can quickly get out of control.
But we've got your covered. Our dog cost calculator at the top of this page can help you estimate how much you are likely to spend on your canine companion. In the sections below, we take a look at some of the most common expenses that you will incur as a dog owner and break them down into average spends.
Good to know
Before we dive in, we must know some basics. To begin with, the cost of buying a dog in Canada, or elsewhere for that matter, can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the breed of the dog, the breeder, and the location.
Here are some estimated prices for different breeds of dogs in Canada in the table below:
| Dog breed | Estimated price |
|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| German Shepherd | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Golden Retriever | $1,800 to $3,500 |
| Bulldog | $2,500 to $4,000 |
| French Bulldog | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Poodle | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Dachshund | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Beagle | $800 to $1,500 |
| Siberian Husky | $1,500 to $3,500 |
Keep in mind
It's important to note that the cost of buying a dog is only one part of the expense of owning a pet. There are also ongoing costs such as food, veterinary care, grooming and supplies. Additionally, it's important to research and choose a reputable breeder or adoption agency to ensure the health and well-being of your new pet.
The best way to make sure you're giving the best care to your pet is by purchasing the best pet insurance. Compare the best offers on the market using our free comparison tool below:
Compare the best pet insurance plans on the market!
How much does it cost to neuter a dog?
Neutering a dog depends on the size, age and breed. However, HelloSafe discovered that spaying a dog could potentially cost an average of $600.
While not too common perhaps in our grandparents' generation, spaying dogs became more popular over the course of the 20th century and is now accepted as a normal part of responsible pet ownership.
Besides preventing unexpected puppies, spaying can help with behavioural issues and also prevent the transmission of diseases.
How much does it cost to put down a dog?
No matter how well you take care of your pet, there might come a time when you may have to decide to bid adieu to them. Putting your beloved pet down can indeed be a very difficult and emotional decision to make.
However, euthanasia, is sometimes the best and only way to alleviate a pet's suffering when they have a severe illness or injury that's untreatable or unmanageable. It can be a compassionate choice to prevent further pain and ensure a peaceful passing for the animal by putting them to sleep.
The cost of putting your pet down would typically start around $50. It may, however, vary and go up to a $100 or more if you would like the veterinarian to have the procedure done at your house.
How much does it cost to fly a dog internationally?
If you wish to travel with your dog by plane, most airlines will allow you to transport it in a carrier with your luggage. The size and breed of your dog will affect how much this costs as will the destination and length of your journey.
To help give you a rough idea of the expense, however, we have calculated the average costs of flying with a dog within Canada and abroad.
| Cost | Domestic flight | International flight |
|---|---|---|
| One-way flight | $100 - $120 | $280 - $320 |
Watch out!
Airlines monitor the temperature of the luggage hold and may refuse to board your dog if they think that it would be dangerous for them.
How much does it cost to cremate a dog?
Losing a pet can be devastating but it's important to plan well in advance so you can bid them a proper farewell. The cost of cremating your dog can vary significantly based on the size and the chosen cremation method.
Smaller pets cost less to cremate than larger pets. The prices range from $30 for a small animal communal cremation to $250 or more for an individual cremation of a larger animal like a Great Dane.
You may have additional charges for services like pick-up or the purchase of a special personalised urn to keep your furry friend's remains.
Many crematories require information about the breed type and weight to provide an accurate quote on the cost of cremation. Geographical locations with a higher cost of living are most likely to have a higher cremation cost.
How much does an x ray for a dog cost?
The average cost of an X-ray for a dog in Canada ranges between $160 and $260.
If your dog is injured or becomes sick then it may need an X-ray to find out how seriously they are injured or if they are suffering from an internal issue.
If you have dog insurance then check if your policy covers the cost of an X-ray. If not, then you will have to pay the vet out of your own pocket.
And if you don't have a pet insurance just yet, compare the best offer online with our free tool below:
Compare the best pet insurance plans on the market!
How much does it cost to microchip a dog?
These days microchipping has become a common and inexpensive procedure. Most insurance companies and vets would recommend that you take this precaution. Microchipping can help you find your dog if it becomes lost or is stolen.
Microchipping is a non-invasive procedure which should not cause your dog any distress. Check your pet insurance terms and conditions to see if it is a requirement or if it could save you money in premiums. Some pet insurances will cover the cost of microchipping too.
| Cost of dog microchipping | Quebec | British Columbia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session | $40 | $30 | $50 |
How much does a dog trainer cost?
The cost of dog training in Canada will vary depending on your location and the breed of dog that you own. From our research, we found that the average cost is around $200 per session.
But the question you probably have on your mind is, "how much does a trained dog cost?" The answer is, well, a lot less than an untrained dog! Untrained dogs can cause damage to your furniture or property or even, in a worst-case scenario, leave you open to legal costs if they damage someone else's property or bite someone.
How much does a dog walker cost?
The prices charged by dog walkers will vary from place to place. Dog walkers will usually charge more for larger breeds. However, you may be able to get a discount if you are pre-booking long-term work in advance or if you have multiple dogs.
To give a rough idea of cost per walk, we have put together the average costs of hiring a dog walker for three major provinces.
| Dog walking | Quebec | British Columbia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of session | $21 | $28 | $29 |
How much does dog teeth cleaning cost?
If you have dog insurance then check if your policy covers the cost of dental treatments. If not, then you will have to pay a vet out of your own pocket. The cost of dental treatment for a dog on average is around $500, while the same with anaesthesia is around $750.
If your dog's teeth are not healthy, it can lead to all sorts of problems as well as bad breath. Gum or tooth infections can reportedly lead to organ damage or even death. It is therefore a good idea to have your dog's teeth cleaned regularly.
Good to know
You can help your dog to keep their teeth healthy by buying them dental chew toys.
How much does it cost to board a dog?
The cost of daycare for your dog will depend on where you live and on the size and breed of dog you own. Larger, more aggressive breeds will generally have a higher price of admission to a dog daycare centre.
However, you should expect to pay between $15 and $50 dollars a day. Note that a day usually constitutes anything over a five-hour stay.
How much does dog grooming cost?
Dog grooming is not just an aesthetic procedure. Studies show that dogs that are brushed regularly have healthier coats. On top of this, some breeds may need regular haircuts in order to be able to see, while others may need to have their claws trimmed.
The cost of having your dog groomed by a professional will vary depending on the size of your animal as well as the location. To help give you an idea of costs we have put together the average spend on a single dog grooming session depending on weight and location in the table below.
| Size of dog (kg) | Alberta | British Columbia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 - 13 | $70 - $100 | $75 - $85 | $100 - $140 |
| 14 - 23 | $100 - $120 | $85 - $95 | $140 - $180 |
| 23+ | $120 - $150 | $105 - $130 | $180 - $210 |
How much does dog food cost?
The costs of feeding a dog will, of course, vary depending on the size, age and breed of your pet. However, HelloSafe's research indicates an average annual spend of around $2,300 on pet food.
We know that a healthy dog is one that eats the right food and has its diet carefully monitored. Attention has to be paid to dog food to ensure the health of their teeth, coat and body. While this means healthier and long-living furry companions, the downside is that the cost of feeding your dog is more than it may have been for your grandparents' generation.
Compare the best pet insurance plans on the market!
How much does an allergy test cost for a dog?
If you want to have your dog checked for allergies, you have two options. If you get a vet to administer the tests, this will generally cost you between $250 to $350 dollars if it is not covered by your pet insurance.
However, you also have the option to buy do-it-yourself allergen test kits for dogs on the internet. These are available for as little as $110 although the results may not be as accurate.
How much does it cost to express dog glands?
Anal gland expression is an important procedure for certain breeds including Chihuahuas, Poodles, Spaniels, Beagles and Bassets. This can be done by owners, however some prefer to leave it to the capable hands of a veterinary professional.
The cost of anal gland expression will vary depending on where you live. Take a look at the chart below for some average costs.
| Procedure | Alberta | British Columbia | Ontario |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gland expression | $15 | $17 | $10 |
