The cost of having a dog

Although the cost of a dog can vary depending on the breed, age, health and lifestyle of your pet, there are a number of factors you will need to take into account to promote its health and long-term well-being.

Several factors affect the cost of having a dog. All of his needs must be taken into consideration, including grooming, visits to the vet, insurance and of course, food. However, while the cost of having a dog can vary depending on the breed, age, health and lifestyle of your pet, there are a number of factors you will need to consider to help long-term well-being.

The cost of buying a dog

Having a dog involves legal responsibilities. The landlord's obligations and duties will vary depending on the laws of the country, but there are some basic things to take into account.

• Purchase costs: The purchase of a dog is considered a commercial transaction: the seller (breeder) and the buyer, therefore, have legal obligations. The buyer must pay the agreed price for a "good" in working condition (neither sick nor disabled) and meeting all the expected characteristics (for example, breed standards). Generally, a purchase contract and fees apply.
• Mandatory identification: To avoid fraud and prosecution, many countries have established specific rules, such as compulsory identification by tattoo or electronic chip. Of course, this data must be recorded, stored and managed by a central organization (generally national). Most of the time, the breeder will take care of the identification process. This is usually done at the veterinarian during the first vaccination consultation. When you welcome your dog home, be sure to save him under his name and make sure his contact information is updated if you change your address or phone number. It is the only way for people to find you if you lose your dog. It is also useful for proving that you are the owner of your dog.
• Registration  : A certificate of ownership or an official declaration of dog care is compulsory in many countries, and cities sometimes implement specific laws. Make sure you comply with all legal obligations. In case of non-compliance, the authorities can take your dog away from you.
• Mandatory  vaccines: Puppies must receive two series of vaccines during their first twelve weeks of life. The breeder or refuge will probably have taken charge of the first series. However, if you welcome the puppy home before the age of twelve weeks, you may need to schedule the second vaccination session yourself. This will not be covered by your animal's insurance.

The cost of insurance

Your pet's insurance has two parts. The first is to protect your health and well-being in the event of unexpected accidents or health problems. The second concerns the damage that can be caused by your pet.

• Liability insurance  :  It is a good idea to take out insurance to cover any damage or accident caused by your dog as well as to protect you in the event of unforeseen health problems and veterinary bills.
• Unforeseen costs  : Puppies chew on valuables (glasses, furniture, etc.) belonging to friends or visitors. However, these insurances generally do not cover damage caused to your personal property. In addition, you will be legally responsible if your dog is the cause of a road accident (eg someone who swerves to avoid hitting your dog).
• Health insurance  :  In some countries it is also possible to purchase health insurance for your dog. This practice is widespread in North America, Western Europe and Japan. You should check to see if such pet insurance is available in your country before purchasing your pet.
• Pre-existing diseases  : Since most policies do not cover pre-existing diseases, it is a good idea to purchase insurance for your puppy as soon as possible. Many chronic or debilitating diseases (such as skin allergies or growth disorders) are diagnosed at a young age.
• Creating your own policy  : If pet insurance does not exist in your country or if you do not want to invest money in it, you can create your own policy to prepare yourself for dealing with health problems of your animal. As soon as you purchase your pet, set aside a certain amount each month. It will be a kind of "savings account" for your dog. The funds will gradually build up and could be very useful if something happened to your pet. We hope you never need it, but it could also be used to care for your pet when it is old ... or just buy a new leash or basket.