What pets really cost
Sourced statistics, transparent cost estimates, and free calculators for U.S. pet owners. Every number carries a citation: APPA, NAPHIA, and the Insurance Information Institute.
Data reviewed August 1, 2026
95M
U.S. households own at least one pet
$158B
spent on pets in the U.S. in 2025
$836/yr
average accident & illness premium for dogs
6.98M
insured pets in the U.S.
Quick answer
Owning a dog in the U.S. costs roughly $1,300 to $3,000 per year for most owners, based on APPA spending averages for food and routine vet care plus grooming, supplies, and optional insurance (NAPHIA average: $836 per year). Small breeds sit near the bottom of that range; large and giant breeds, or breeds with known health risks, sit near the top.
Annual cost by breed
Estimated total annual cost including food, routine vet care, grooming, supplies, and insurance. Tap a breed for the full breakdown.
| Breed | Size | Estimated annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | large | $950 to $2,650 per year |
| Golden Retriever | large | $1,100 to $2,990 per year |
| German Shepherd | large | $1,100 to $3,040 per year |
| French Bulldog | small | $660 to $2,690 per year |
| Standard Poodle | large | $1,500 to $3,550 per year |
| Goldendoodle | large | $1,500 to $3,600 per year |
| Beagle | medium | $790 to $2,260 per year |
| Dachshund | small | $660 to $2,400 per year |
| Yorkshire Terrier | small | $1,210 to $3,160 per year |
| Shih Tzu | small | $1,210 to $3,210 per year |
| Chihuahua | small | $660 to $2,060 per year |
| Rottweiler | giant | $1,120 to $3,160 per year |
Statistics hub
Pet ownership, spending, and insurance data with citations.
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