Ruff truth: Here's how expensive owning a dog was in 2023 in Canada

Did you take the leap this year by adding a furry friend to your family? Did you realize what you were signing up for? It isn’t all cuddles, belly rubs, and face licks.

Owning a dog in Canada can cost you between $1,395 and $4,270 a year, according to a report published by a network of dog sitters and dog walkers named Rover.

Of course, spending varies depending on whether you’re adopting a pup from a shelter or buying one from a breeder. Where you live and your lifestyle might also affect your bills.

Rover.com

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When you get a dog, there are a ton of necessary one-time expenses to bear. If you adopt one, the first big expense (adoption fee) might be lower compared to the crater in your wallet buying a purebred dog.

Still, a leash here and a crate there, and you’re leaving the pet supply store with a $265 receipt. But what about the other bills? What if your pup needs their shots or isn’t microchipped or neutered/spayed? It can cost up to $1500 to neuter or spay your dog alone.

Rover says initial expenses are worth it in the end, but it can all add up to a hefty bill.

Rover.com

Preventative medication can cost upwards of $305, and that’s aside from regular health checkups and vet visits, but additional costs like emergency vet visits or doggy daycare may arise.

If you’re leaving town and don’t have a friend who can take care of your furry friend, one session at daycare can cost $32, and dog walkers charge around $20. When the weather changes, your pup might need rain/snow boots, a warm jacket for winter, or a de-shedding grooming session to brave the summer heat.

“As pet parents, it sometimes feels impossible to think about what our beloved dog’s end of life might look like, but it’s important to budget for,” reported Rover.

Lastly, if you’re renting, some landlords require deposits for damage caused by pets.

Good luck retaining your deposit! Don’t forget to clip your dog’s nails and get them plenty of chew toys so they don’t end up wrecking those baseboards.

Did you get a dog in 2023? Let us know in the comments.

This piece was previously published in 2022, and it has since been updated.