Least Expensive Dog Breeds

We at AnimalWised always encourage adoption over purchasing a companion animal. While this might be financially prudent for guardians, it is not the main reason for doing so. Adoption provides animals in need with the homes and security they deserve. Too many dogs are abandoned or can no longer be cared for, putting an increasing strain on animal rescue services and shelters. Many are euthanized simply because a home cannot be found.

In addition to being the least expensive dog breeds, mixed-breed dogs also have other advantages over purebred animals. Purebred dogs have a much more limited genetic variability than mixed-breed dogs. Not only do mixed breeds have a unique appearance and personality, they have a reduced risk of hereditary disease. This is why mixed-breed dogs tend to have a longer life expectancy.

If you are looking for affordability, adopting a mixed-breed dog is your best option. You can contact your local animal shelter and schedule a visit. They will help guide you by explaining the needs of each dog and helping you to determine if you are a suitable guardian to meet these needs. There should be a wide variety of both mixed-breed and purebred dogs looking for a new home.

Keep in mind that adopting a dog isn't always free. Adoption costs often vary depending on the dog's age and region. It is often the case that adoption of puppies and younger adults will involve a fee, but older dogs do not. These costs are not for purchase, but to cover the expenses for veterinary bills and upkeep at the shelter. These costs can range from $50-$350. Even so, adoption is the least expensive and ethical way to have a dog.

Greyhounds to are one of the easiest and cheapest animals to adopt, due to their widespread distribution during the eras when dog racing was very popular. As this practice became banned in several countries, the market value of greyhounds plummeted. This is especially the case with Spanish and English Greyhounds. The result was many Greyhounds being abandoned and suffering immense pain.

Various projects have been dedicated to the rehabilitation of both adult and puppy Greyhounds. These services take animals from race tracks before they can be destroyed or rescued from places where they are exploited. While some Greyhounds can have a prey drive for small animals thanks to being trained on the lure, the affordable dog breeds are beautiful animals with a balanced character.

When adopting a Greyhound, you are often only required to pay for adoption costs. In the US, these can range from $225-$750, depending on the organization from which they are adopted. It is more common for them to be low and they can even be free if you adopt an elderly Greyhound, making them one of the most affordable dogs.

We share our guide to the different types of sighthound to see other Greyhound breeds.

Despite the American Pit Bull Terrier being the only one with ‘Pit Bull’ in their name, there are various breeds referred to as Pit Bull-type dogs. Although each has their own unique characteristics, they are often lumped together both morphologically and temperamentally. They are collectively given the unfair reputation as being overly aggressive or dangerous dogs. This myth is related to their sad history of involvement in dog fighting.

In reality, Pit Bulls are not the monsters they are often depicted as:

• They are extremely friendly with people and get along wonderfully with children, whom they will protect at all costs.
• They tend to develop a bond of extreme devotion with their tutors, striving to please them. This is a great incentive in their education.
• They need a good amount of daily exercise to burn off energy and should be socialized from puppyhood. This will improve their coexistence with other dogs, animals and people. Learn more with our guide to the socialization of puppies and adult dogs.

The dangers of Pit Bull breeders are related to poor training and improper treatment. Even when intentions are good, poor handling of the animal can lead to behavioral issues compounded by their often muscular bodies. Problems relating to their breeding has resulted in many being abandoned. Fortunately, many Pit Bull enthusiasts have set up projects to help rescue and rehabilitate them.

These Pit Bull organizations need to ensure the dogs pass numerous tests to ensure they are suitable for adoption. Despite this work, the adoption fee range for Pit Bulls in the US is generally around $250-$400, depending on the specific organization. The sheer number of individuals needing adoption makes them one of the least expensive dog breeds. Their relatively good health also helps to minimize costs.

Known as the world's most intelligent dog breed, the Border Collie can be an incredible addition to any home willing to meet their needs. Although very friendly, they need to have plenty of cognitive and physical stimulation to maintain a balanced character. They have a strong herding instinct and are still commonly used as working dogs on farms across the world.

Adopting Border Collies will differ according to whether you live in an urban or rural area. You may be able to pick up a Border Collie for free in a rural area with the right connections. If you choose a specialized breeder, the cost of acquiring a Border Collie puppy can range from $800-$3,500 depending on the specific breeder and lineage. This means they may not be the most affordable dog breed if you are looking for a certain pedigree.

Due to their high need for stimulation and training, the Border Collie is not for everyone. They are a companion for active families who can dedicate the time and energy they require. Even older Border Collies can be very active, although they do tend to slow down in old age. These factors should be considered before you adopt a Border Collie.

Often confused with each other, you can discover the differences between the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd with our related guide.

This German dog breed is synonymous with beauty and versatility. Thanks to its balanced character and exceptional intelligence, the German Shepherd has enjoyed great success as both a companion animal and working dog. Its role alongside security forces around the world means the German Shepherd is practically synonymous with police dogs.

Although specialized breeders provide prices ranging between $450-$3,000, there is a much more economical way to acquire a specimen of this noble German breed. While there are no dedicated organizations for adopting retired police dogs, there are organizations which assist in their handling and care. They provide information and practical guidance for guardians who help after local police departments rehome a police service dog.

Beyond saving a significant amount of money, this option allows you to adopt a highly trained and obedient dog. In addition to receiving expert advice on how to care for a retired canine agent and how to adapt to their new home, you will be part of a network of German Shepherd guardians who can provide additional assistance and community.

The different types of German Shepherds can be found in our related guide.

For many years, owning a Chihuahua outside of Mexico was synonymous with high socioeconomic status. This is despite the fact they are an ancient dog breed and can now be found all over the world. It is no longer necessary to invest a small fortune to acquire a Chihuahua puppy. In Latin American countries, they are one of the least expensive dog breeds and rarely exceed $350.

Specialized breeders in the USA may charge more, especially if they have a specific pedigree. This means their cost of purchase can range from $500-$3,500. You should also keep in mind that Chihuahuas are quite sensitive to the cold and are genetically predisposed to several diseases. This can require a high investment in veterinary care. With proper care, the Chihuahua life expectancy can be as much as 18-20 years of age. This is an enviable longevity, but it will mean you will need to pay the cost of upkeep during this time.

Discover the different Chihuahua coat colors and patterns with our related guide.

The ancestors of this English dog breed can be traced back as far as Ancient Greece. They were highly valued for their hunting skills, being synonymous with fox hunting in the English countryside. The modern Beagle's popularity boomed in the US after the appearance of the character Snoopy in the Peanuts cartoon series. Created by Charles Schulz in the 1950s, many homes wanted a Snoopy of their own.

Although the breed remains highly recognized worldwide, its population has declined significantly in the 21st century, making its market value more affordable. It is currently possible to acquire a beagle puppy for around $800-$1,500. The cost discrepancy depends on factors such as lineage and individual breeders, but overall it is one of the least expensive dog breeds.

The Beagle can be a wonderful companion animal, but they are known for their very distinctive character. Although known for their strong hunting instinct, they are a dog breed prone to laziness. They have a very big appetite and can easily suffer from obesity if they fed improperly. They also need to be socialized from an early age and are known to be quite stubborn.

Like the Beagle, the English Cocker Spaniel experienced a significant decline in popularity as a companion dog. Despite its beauty and intelligence remaining intact, this breed fell out of favor in the mid-2000s. At one time, it was possible to acquire a puppy for nothing more than the cost of veterinary care (around $170-$230).

As demand fell, the number of breeders also declined, causing the price to rise. Even so, the English Cocker Spaniel remains one of the cheapest dog breeds, with a minimum purchase price of between $800-$3,000 in the US. This will be even cheaper in countries such as the UK where they are more common.

Although they are quite resilient dogs, there are common Cocker Spaniel diseases that can increase the cost of preventive medicine and veterinary treatment. With proper care, these dogs can live up to 14 or 15 years in very good health.

We share the different types of Cocker Spaniels you can adopt with our related guide.

Also known as the Hungarian Pointer or Magyar Vizsla, the Vizsla is one of the least expensive dog breeds to adopt, but it is not always easy to find. While not as popular as other types of pointer dog breeds, the Vizsla has plenty of amazing qualities. These medium-sized dogs are elegant, dynamic, curious and completely devoted to their family.

Despite being such great family dogs Vizslas can be somewhat wary of strangers. They love water and outdoor activities, so they'll be excellent companions for people with an adventurous spirit. They are not well suited to families with sedentary lifestyles.

In terms of cost, the Hungarian Vizsla is one of the cheapest dog breeds, with breeders in Europe and America offering prices as low as $550, although the price range tends to be be $1,000-$3,000. Another advantage is that the Vizsla is a very healthy dog, with little high incidence of hereditary diseases. This tends to translate into lower veterinary care costs for owners and a better quality of life for their furry friends.

Of the four currently recognized sizes or types of Poodles, the Medium Poodle is considered the most affordable. If you want a larger or smaller Poodle, the Standard and Toy Poodles tend to be much more expensive. The price for adopting a Medium Poodle tends to stay in the range of $1,000 and $2,500. They can be even more affordable in some cases. Due to the popularity of the Poodle, there are also many Poodle crosses to be found in shelters.

Another advantage of choosing these inexpensive and cute dogs is that you'll be living with a highly intelligent and trainable companion. These charming, curly-haired dogs are among the top 5 most intelligent breeds. They can become wonderful companions, but will need plenty of training to meet their cognitive stimulation needs.

Here we have shared our list of the most affordable dog breeds, but we want to reiterate the importance of adopting animals. Doing so will bring new life to a dog in need, as well as an unlimited source of love to your family.

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