If you want to own a German shepherd as your first dog, or you want to add him to your other dogs, you must consider the price and all the necessities needed by a German Shepherd.
German Shepherds are expensive to own, especially if you are buying a GSD from a reputable breeder. They require a good diet as they have a sensitive stomach, regular vet’s checkup, playing toys, leash, grooming tools, crates, beddings, and training fee.
This article breaks down all the costs needed to buy and raise a German Shepherd.
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Are German Shepherds Expensive to Own? Costs You Should Expect
German Shepherd Price
If you want to buy an 8-week old German Shepherd, it will cost around $1200-$1500 or more. This price will change as per your location. The price includes all the expenses like vaccination, spaying or neutering food, and microchipping.
An adult dog will cost more than a puppy, especially professionally trained dogs.
You can also get a dog from animal shelters or rescue groups, you will be expected to pay adoption fees which range from $300-$400. The adoption fee might differ from one rescue home to the other. These dogs are cheaper than buying from a breeder.
Show or work breed will be more expensive than those bred as stay home pets.
Food
German Shepherds are active dogs; this means they require a lot of food. They are also known to have a sensitive stomach; you have to choose their food wisely.
An average size German Shepherd can eat up to 120lbs bag of dog food a week, this will cost around $75 a month, while an adult will consume 310lbs. The amount of food a dog eats will be determined by its size and activity.
You should also add the cost of treats give your dog treats when training him. They should be half the price of food.
Buying dog food in bulk will save your money although many dog foods are highly perishable. Always consult your vet for advice on the best food for your dog.
Grooming
German shepherds are heavy shedders; they need grooming regularly. You can either take them to a professional groomer or do it yourself at home. Either way, money is needs but grooming them at home is cheaper. Professional groomers charge $50 to $80 per visit. A professional groomer will bathe, trim coat, brush teeth, and clean ears. Grooming charges will be determined by size, age, health, and dog behavior.
Grooming at home will require you to have grooming tools,. You can buy pet grooming tools online for less than $100.
Health
German Shepherds are prone to many diseases like degenerative myelopathy, hip dysplasia, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV), Lumbosacral Instability & Degenerative Disc Disease, and allergies. The price for each treatment varies with allergies being the lowest at $100 to $1500 and the highest is hip dysplasia at $450-$1200 per year.
Other costs include vaccinations, spay or neuter, internal and external parasite control, and regular vet checkups.
The cost of treating German Shepherds is very high and it’s advisable to insure them. There are four types of insurance namely; Traditional, Customizable, Accident Only and Discount insurance.
Insurance companies will charge differently depending on the age and breed of your dog. They will also consider your budget and veterinarian. Average dog insurance will cost around $700 per year.
Obedience Training Classes
Your dog needs obedience classes for him to socialize well and learn basic commands. These classes normally take 4-8 weeks per session. A normal class will cost $35-$45 on average while a private class will cost $50-$100 per session. On average your dog requires to go through six training sessions which will cost about $700.
You will also be needed to buy training accessories like a dog leash and collar which will cost around $20-$25. Note that these Accessories need to be replaced as your dog grows.
Supplies
You will be needed to buy quality supplies for your dog, they will cost around $200-$700.these supplies include; water and food bows, dog leash and color, bed, crates, first aid tools, toenail clippers a brush.
The cost of these supplies decreases after buying the first time because you will be needed to replace a few of the items but not all at once.
Dog Walking
German shepherds require a lot of exercises you are much occupied and you can’t find time to exercise your dog, it’s advisable to hire a dog walker.
Dog walkers can charge around $10-$20 per 30 minutes’ walk and $30-$50 per hour. A private dog walker will charge more.
Conclusion
German shepherds can be cheap or expensive depending on where you buy them from. Remember that maintenance cost is much more than his buying price. You should ensure that you have a reliable source of income to maintain a German Shepherd. If you think he is too expensive for you it’s advisable to choose from other breeds.