Labrador Puppy Will Cost You

Labrador Retriever puppies are adorable. There’s no other way to describe them, is there? You see one in the pet store, or at a breeder’s kennel, and you fall in love. You aren’t naïve enough to believe the Puppy will be free. You know it will cost you. But do you know how much Labrador care will cost?

Initial Costs of Labrador Care

The initial costs involved in Labrador care seem steep to some. If you purchase a pedigreed AKC Labrador Retriever from pet store or breeder, you can expect to pay upward of $300 for your Puppy. Add the cost of neutering and vaccinations. Throw in a dog bed, collar, leash, and crate. You are well over $500 in initial costs. In fact, you may be close to $1000 in capital expenses for Labrador care.

But wait. In the U.S., Labrador care need not cost that much. Most Labrador puppies are obtained from family members or acquaintances. In fact, statistics show that only fifteen to twenty percent of all dogs in the U.S. are purchased from breeders. Between two and ten percent of all dogs are purchased from pet shops. Another ten to twenty percent are adopted from shelters or rescue organizations.

That means that the initial costs of Labrador care need not be so high. Ask family members and friends, and you may find a Labrador Puppy at a low price. Visit your local animal shelter, and you may adopt one for a low price.

Remember, though, that even if you get a Puppy free, you will have initial Labrador care expenses of neutering, vaccinations, bed, collar, leash, and crate. Be prepared.

Ongoing Costs of Labrador Care

We all know that dogs need food. How expensive can that be? There is more to Labrador care than just food, however.

The average Labrador care cost is about $620 annually, depending on where you live. That figure includes basic food, veterinary care, toys, and a dog license.

Hidden Costs of Labrador Care

Once you have your Puppy, you will find hidden costs that must be added to those already considered.

* Grooming: Labrador care involves occasional grooming. You will need to buy brushes, combs, and toenail clippers. Or you will need to take it to a professional groomer.

* Training: You may be a knowledgeable dog trainer, and will not incur expenses for this part of Labrador care. Otherwise, you will pay for books or classes, or the services of a trainer. Puppies need training if they are to be well-adjusted, obedient companions.

* Accidents: We all hope puppies will not get hurt, but they do. One of our family dogs broke its leg jumping a fence. Another swallowed a computer memory “thumb”. Small and large accidents can add up in veterinary bills.

Conclusion

Labrador care costs are too seldom considered before purchase. If you are thinking of buying a Labrador Puppy, turn away from the kisses and sparkling little eyes long enough to check your income. Be sure you are prepared to give the Puppy the care it will need.