25 Cheapest Dog Breeds to Own

Owning a dog doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you choose a breed that’s known for being low-maintenance and cost-effective. Some dogs are naturally healthier, require less grooming, and eat less, making them more affordable companions over their lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a small apartment-friendly pup or a larger, more robust breed, there’s an affordable option out there for every lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore 25 dog breeds that are not only beloved but also budget-friendly. Discover how you can enjoy the joys of dog ownership without the hefty price tag.

Beagles are a small to medium-sized breed known for their friendly and curious nature. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance option for pet owners. Generally healthy, Beagles tend to have fewer medical issues compared to other breeds, which keeps vet bills manageable. Additionally, their moderate size means they don’t require large amounts of food, further reducing the cost of ownership.

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, which makes them very affordable in terms of food and living space. Their tiny size also means they are portable and easy to care for, with minimal grooming required. Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas have a bold personality, often acting as vigilant watchdogs. Their overall health is generally good, contributing to lower veterinary costs over their lifespan.

Dachshunds, with their distinctive long bodies and short legs, are an affordable breed due to their modest size and minimal grooming needs. They are generally healthy dogs, although they can be prone to back issues due to their unique shape. Their independent and playful nature makes them a joy to own, requiring less attention than some more high-maintenance breeds. Dachshunds also have a long lifespan, which can reduce the cost of acquiring a new pet over time.

Despite their large size, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-maintenance and affordable to own. They have short coats that require little grooming, and their calm temperament makes them easy to care for. Greyhounds are known for their good health and low incidence of hereditary diseases, which can lead to fewer trips to the vet. Their low energy levels indoors also mean they don’t require excessive amounts of food, keeping feeding costs reasonable.

Jack Russell Terriers are small, energetic dogs that are both affordable and easy to care for. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, which helps keep maintenance costs low. These terriers are generally healthy and resilient, often avoiding the costly health issues that can plague other breeds. Their lively and intelligent nature makes them easy to train at home, reducing the need for expensive professional training services.

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs with a long, luxurious coat that does require regular grooming. However, their overall health is generally good, which means fewer vet visits and medical expenses. They are known for their long lifespan, offering years of companionship. Shih Tzus also have a moderate appetite, keeping feeding costs manageable for their owners.

Boston Terriers are a small, sturdy breed that is both low-maintenance and affordable. They have short coats that require minimal grooming, and their moderate size means they don’t eat as much as larger breeds. Boston Terriers are generally healthy, which helps to keep veterinary costs low. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them an easy choice for families, requiring less specialized training or care.

Pugs are small, affectionate dogs known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and loving nature. While they do have some health considerations, such as breathing issues, they are otherwise low-maintenance with minimal grooming needs. Their small size keeps food costs low, and they typically adapt well to apartment living, which can save on housing costs. Pugs are generally friendly and require little in the way of specialized training.

Whippets are sleek, medium-sized dogs that are known for their gentle temperament and low-maintenance care. Their short coat requires little grooming, and they have a generally healthy disposition, which keeps veterinary costs to a minimum. Whippets are also content with moderate exercise, meaning they don’t require large yards or expensive exercise routines. Their size and health contribute to lower food and care costs, making them an affordable choice for many families.

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs, making them both rewarding and affordable to own. Their natural intelligence makes them easy to train, often eliminating the need for expensive professional trainers. They are generally healthy and have a long lifespan, which reduces the overall cost of veterinary care. Despite their need for regular exercise, they are low-maintenance in terms of grooming and feeding, keeping costs manageable.

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds due to their friendly nature and ease of care. They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming, and they are generally healthy, which helps to keep vet bills low. Their medium to large size does mean they eat more than smaller dogs, but their overall good health and adaptability make them a cost-effective choice. Labradors are also highly trainable, which can save on professional training costs.

Cairn Terriers are small, sturdy dogs with a cheerful disposition and minimal grooming needs. Their short coat is easy to care for, and they are generally a healthy breed, which reduces the frequency of vet visits. Cairn Terriers are also very adaptable and easy to train, making them a great option for families or first-time dog owners. Their small size means they don’t require much food, keeping feeding costs low.

Mutts, or mixed-breed dogs, are often among the most affordable pets due to their genetic diversity, which typically results in fewer health problems. This makes them less prone to the hereditary issues that can plague purebred dogs, leading to lower veterinary costs. Mutts also come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that fits your living situation and budget. They are often available at lower adoption fees, making them an economical choice for potential dog owners.

Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their hardiness and low-maintenance care, making them an affordable breed to own. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they are generally a healthy breed with few genetic health issues. These dogs are highly energetic and intelligent, which can reduce the need for professional training as they are quick learners. Their modest size and healthy disposition contribute to lower food and veterinary costs over their lifetime.

Papillons are small, dainty dogs with a surprisingly hardy nature, making them an affordable pet to own. Their beautiful, butterfly-like ears are complemented by a coat that, while needing regular grooming, does not require professional care. Papillons are generally healthy dogs, which helps to keep vet bills low. Their small size also means they eat less, contributing to their overall affordability.

Miniature Pinschers are small, robust dogs with minimal grooming needs, making them a cost-effective breed to own. Their short coat is easy to maintain, and they are generally a healthy breed, which can reduce the frequency of vet visits. These dogs are known for their lively personality and intelligence, often requiring less professional training. Their small size also keeps food costs low, contributing to their overall affordability.

Foxhounds are medium to large-sized dogs known for their endurance and good health, making them a budget-friendly option. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they are generally healthy, which helps to keep veterinary expenses low. Foxhounds have a calm and even temperament, reducing the need for expensive training. Their active nature does require regular exercise, but they are otherwise low-maintenance and inexpensive to care for.

Manchester Terriers are small, sleek dogs with a low-maintenance coat and generally good health, making them an affordable pet to own. Their short coat requires little grooming, and they are known for being a robust and resilient breed. These terriers are intelligent and quick learners, often requiring less professional training. Their moderate size means they don’t require large amounts of food, further contributing to their cost-effectiveness.

Rat Terriers are small, energetic dogs that are both affordable and easy to care for. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, which helps keep maintenance costs low. They are generally healthy and resilient, often avoiding the costly health issues that can plague other breeds. Their lively and intelligent nature makes them easy to train at home, reducing the need for expensive professional training services.

Bichon Frises are small, cheerful dogs with a distinctive curly coat that does require regular grooming. However, they are generally healthy, which means fewer vet visits and lower medical expenses. They are known for their long lifespan, offering years of companionship. Bichon Frises also have a moderate appetite, keeping feeding costs manageable for their owners.

Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs known for their friendly temperament and easy-going nature. While they do require regular grooming, their overall health is generally good, which can help keep veterinary costs down. These dogs are highly trainable, which reduces the need for professional training services. Their moderate size means they have reasonable food needs, making them an affordable breed to own.

American Pit Bull Terriers are medium to large-sized dogs known for their strength and loyalty. Despite their tough appearance, they are generally healthy and have low grooming needs, which helps to keep ownership costs low. They require minimal professional training due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. While they do have a moderate appetite, their overall good health and low-maintenance care make them an affordable breed to own.

English Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and gentle demeanor. While they do have some health considerations, their minimal grooming needs and relatively low activity levels make them easy to care for. Bulldogs are generally low-maintenance in terms of training, as they are calm and easygoing. Their moderate size means they have reasonable food needs, contributing to their overall affordability.

Basset Hounds are medium to large-sized dogs known for their long ears and droopy expressions. Despite their size, they are relatively low-maintenance, with minimal grooming needs and a generally good health profile. Basset Hounds are known for their calm and patient nature, which reduces the need for professional training. Their low energy levels mean they don’t require large amounts of food, making them an affordable breed to own.

Collies are medium to large-sized dogs known for their intelligence and loyalty. Their long coat does require regular grooming, but they are generally a healthy breed with few hereditary health issues. Collies are highly trainable and excel in obedience, which can reduce the need for professional training services. Their moderate size and good health contribute to lower food and veterinary costs, making them an affordable breed to own.

Choosing a dog breed that’s easy on the wallet doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy and companionship a pet brings. With the right breed, you can enjoy all the benefits of dog ownership without worrying about excessive costs. Remember, the most important thing is providing love, care, and attention, regardless of the breed you choose. These affordable breeds offer a great starting point for those looking to bring a furry friend into their lives on a budget. No matter which breed you pick, the bond you form with your dog will be priceless.