Case file · new-dog economics

What your first year
with a dog really costs

The adoption fee is the deposit, not the price. Run the numbers below, then get the printable planning guide and worksheet.

The first-year sniff test

One-time costs paid once, year one

Adoption or purchase fee$

Spay or neuter$

First vet visit and vaccines$

Microchip$

Starter gear (crate, bed, bowls, leash)$

Training classes$

Every month × 12

Food$

Flea, tick, heartworm prevention$

Treats, toys, grooming$

Pet insurance (toggle, then set the premium) $

The wildcard most people skip this

Surprise vet fund (one swallowed sock = $1,000+)$

Budget
accordinglyverdict

First-year estimate

That's about 0× the adoption fee — and roughly $0 a month once you spread it out.

Where it goes

One-time $0Recurring $0

Want the full breakdown?

I'll send the printable worksheet, size-based first-year benchmarks with breed-cost flags, and the three line items new owners underestimate most.