The Bloodhound’s ancestors were developed in medieval France to track deer and wild boar on the hunt. Today, this is a very active and intelligent dog breed, and its great sense of scent has earned them a specific role in police departments and search and rescue operations across the world.
Their supporters adore them because of their charming personalities and distinctive features. The Bloodhound is a huge dog with long floppy ears and wrinkled skin, particularly on the face.
This dog’s cheeks and sunken eyes give him a dignified and sorrowful appearance. The Bloodhound is a kind, patient, aristocratic, and well-behaved animal with a good disposition.
He’s particularly wonderful with youngsters, and he’s well-known for being extraordinarily forgiving of toddlers who clamber all over him. He also gets along with most other animals on a general basis.
Deep streaks of tenacity and independence, on the other hand, can be found behind this mild-mannered appearance. A bloodhound has a conscience of his own, and he prefers to make judgments on his own rather than following the directions of his owner.
This is especially true if the dog has picked up on a particularly intriguing smell; if this occurs, he will be single-minded in his quest to follow the track as far as he possibly can until he exhausts his choices.
The Bloodhound is considered to be one of the most melodic members of the canine family. He is capable of performing whole canine arias that include expressive baying, howling, and whining, among other things.
For anyone considering purchasing a Bloodhound puppy for their family, this post will outline all of the expenses associated with Bloodhound ownership, from the day you bring your puppy home to the time it reaches its golden years.
Following that, we’ll talk about the costs of owning and caring for a Bloodhound during the first year, and then we’ll talk about the costs of owning and caring for a Bloodhound in each following year after that.
We will also cover the costs of your Bloodhound’s training, food, basic dog equipment, and vaccines, as well as any other expenses incurred. In addition, we will cover all medical expenses, dog walking, grooming, transportation, and pet boarding expenses.
The following summary can give you the idea of the whole costs of Bloodhound:
Cost of Bloodhound Puppy?
| The minimum price of a Bloodhound puppy | $500 |
| The maximum price of a Bloodhound puppy | $5500 |
| Price bracket | $500 to $1200 |
| Price average | $850 |
Factors that Influence the Cost of Bloodhound Pups
Bloodhound dogs were once only bred in France, contributing to their expensive price. The price of a puppy depends on its age, breed purity, breeder, and health guarantee.
Breeders
Here is the link to Bloodhound Kennel Club. From there, you may search for a breeder anywhere globally, including the US.
Breeders that care about their pets and work hard to keep them healthy are rare. These considerations will obviously impact the pricing of your Bloodhound puppy.
Breed Purity
A puppy with over 90% breed purity would cost roughly $1200, whereas Bloodhound enthusiasts may quickly obtain their pup for $500 if they are ready to compromise on breed purity.
Health-guarantee
A health guarantee is another important feature that may affect the price of your Bloodhound. Superior breeders will give a 2-year guarantee against genetic abnormalities in their progeny. Due to the vet fees, the breeder will almost probably increase the puppy’s price.
Age
Adult Bloodhound is more expensive than younger pups.
Basic Supplies your Bloodhound will Need and Approximate Costs
You’ll need to stock up on a few necessities before your Bloodhound arrives.
Crate, dog pad & bed
Caution is required when crate training your Bloodhound. No, crate training teaches your dog to value alone time, keep himself occupied, and even calm himself when worried. Potty training Bloodhound is easier than crate training. A sturdy box with a crate mat for this massive dog costs roughly $75. You may also put a comfortable chew-proof dog bed inside the cage for your dog’s comfort. It’ll be roughly $50.
Food and water bowls
Invest in solid bowls that won’t topple. Stainless steel bowls are perfect for every occasion. Alternatively, place a rubber cushion under the bowls to contain the filth and avoid slippage. Then the average cost of food or water bowl is $20-$25 each.
Toys
A durable toy and gadgets for this huge dog are necessary. Invest in durable toys that are safe for your young Bloodhound dog because they have incredible power. Prices range from $50 to $75.
Basic grooming tools
Each day, these dogs shed a great deal, and they are prone to shedding their coats once or twice a year due to this. If you dislike being covered in dog fur, this is not the breed for you.
Brushing them will help minimize shedding, but grooming these dogs will take approximately 30 minutes. They need daily brushing and weekly ear cleaning, with extra grooming for bathing.
You should also clip their nails if they become too long, although because these dogs are always on the go, they usually do so on their own—basic grooming costs between $80 and $100.
Strong leashes
When your veterinarian says it’s OK to take your Bloodhound for a walk, you’ll need a robust leash, no-pull halter, and collar. Before you buy leashes and collars, be sure they are chew-resistant. You should expect to pay around $20 for each leash.
Training aids and equipment
You will need to keep an eye on your Bloodhound puppy from the start. Accessories like clicker training, high-quality (low-calorie) treats, potty training mats, no-chew training, and harsh sprays to deter your dog from chewing on furniture can assist in training. Training assistance equipment costs roughly $75.
Here is the summary of basic supply costs for Bloodhound dog:
| Item | Cost |
| Collar-leash set | $20 |
| Food-water bowls | $15 – $20 |
| Sturdy chew-proof dog bed | From $50 |
| Sturdy crate | From $50 |
| Mats for containing food messes | $10 |
| Sturdy toys and training accessories | $50 – $75 |
| Grooming tools – brush, comb, dental supplies, shampoo, nail clippers, etc. | $75 |
| Poop bags | $10 |
| Potty pads for indoor training | $10 |
Bloodhound Training Cost
Bloodhounds are generally friendly dogs, but if not adequately trained, they can become aggressive. These massive canines are healthy, have long lives, and are frequently easy to teach.
You may train your Bloodhound in a variety of ways. Individual or group training sessions for your Bloodhound can be done at home or a nearby facility. Trainers are specializing in this unusual breed work one-on-one with clients to build customized training programs for their pets. Individual client consultations and specific behavior training for concerns including aggressiveness, fear, and excessive barking are also offered. On the other hand, private/personal dog training is inadequate and unreasonably expensive.
Online dog training has grown in popularity since the Covid-19 virus outbreak. Trainers help owners train their pups via video chatting with them. This cutting-edge method is gaining popularity.
The table below shows the various price ranges for dog training services:
| Dog training type | Cost |
| Private lessons | As low as $20 an hour to almost $400 depending on your area, trainer, and your pet’s needs |
| Group lessons | About $125 for 6-week classes |
| Board and train | $1000 to $2500 for 2-weeks of boarding |
| Online training with private trainers | $90-$350 |
| Online training via YouTube videos | Free |
Bloodhound Food Costs
By the time your breeder gives you and the family possession of your Bloodhound puppy, the dog will have weaned itself off its mother’s milk and is eating puppy food. During the first several weeks, feed your pet the same food they are used to eating. When fully grown, your Bloodhound will weigh between 90 and 130 pounds and stand between 27 and 30 inches tall at the withers when he is at his peak maturity.
A high-energy dog breed like the Bloodhound needs a lot of protein, complex carbohydrates, and vital fats to be healthy. So, Kibble is considered the finest Bloodhound food. It is easy to find high-protein dog food at a reasonable price. However, they use more soy in their products. One of the side effects of soy eating is flatulence in dogs. Avoid dog food with an unbalanced protein, vitamin, and mineral ratio, as well as by-products and artificial ingredients. A daily intake of 16-20 percent protein is recommended. Bloodhounds need high-protein foods like chicken, rabbit, turkey, salmon, and other meats to grow and develop appropriately.
Wet food is an alternative option for most dogs, even pups. Some Bloodhounds experience diarrhea when switched from a dry to canned or wet diet. The Bloodhounds’ cannibalistic habit has led to an addiction to canned food. If your Bloodhound suffers from dyspepsia or other behavioral disorders, you should see your veterinarian before changing his or her diet.
How much to feed?
Feed your Bloodhound pup three times every day.
- A three-month-old Bloodhound will need four cups of Kibble every day.
- Feed your Bloodhound 3 to 4 cans (6 to 7 oz) of canned or wet food every day, depending on size.
The table below summarizes the monthly expenses of various foods for Bloodhounds:
| Type of food | Approximate quantity for 80.lb Bloodhound per month | Cost |
| Dry dog food | 100-180 lb. | $150-$170 |
| Canned or wet food | 150 cans of 5 oz. each | $230-$250 |
| Freeze-dried food | 100 cups | $180-$200 |
| Raw food (commercially prepared) | 30 lb. | $100 – $120 |
Comparing Bloodhound Dog Food Costs
The Bloodhound is a swift, athletic dog. Thanks to its insatiable appetite, it can eat everything it wants. It would benefit from a high-quality diet rich in protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and antioxidants.
Assure they eat human-grade food. You may feed your Bloodhound wet, canned, or dry food. A Bloodhound’s teeth don’t necessarily like raw meat. Kibble is preferable.
Keep an eye on your Bloodhound’s health. Obese Bloodhounds may need to be fed less despite their modest activity levels.
The table below summarizes the best commercial meals for Bloodhound dogs.
| Name of dog food | Features | Price per lb. |
| Purina One Smart Blend Natural Large Breed Formula | Specially formulated for large, energetic dogs. Contains glucosamine | $1.01/lb. |
| Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
|
It contains roasted venison and bison to give nearly 32% protein to your energetic Bloodhound. It is made in the USA. It also contains probiotics for digestion. | $1.86/lb. |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
|
Contains natural ingredients. The first ingredient is real meat—no fillers, preservatives, etc. | $1.73/lb. |
| Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
|
Vet formulated food with natural protein. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health omega fatty acids and vitamin E for a healthy coat | $1.66/lb. |
Medical Costs of Bloodhound
Vaccination costs
Vaccinate your Bloodhound against parvovirus, influenza, distemper, and other diseases. You’ll also need to give your Bloodhound additional immunizations to prevent him from illnesses including Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Borrelia Burgdorferi.
Some vets charge vaccinations based on shots, so prices may vary. Vaccinations cost between $20 and $40 on average.
Aside from vaccines, your Bloodhound may need other preventative exams at the vet. Several clinics offer annual exams, deworming, and blood screening. Preventative packages might cost $200.
Also, deworm your puppies regularly. Puppies are dewormed at 2-3 weeks old. Your puppy must be dewormed after two weeks for the first six months. Then deworm your Bloodhound every 3-4 months. Deworming tablets range in price from $15 to $45.
Bloodhound dog owners must handle fleas and ticks. If you don’t do this, your pet will suffer greatly. Itchy fleas and ticks can spread to large portions of the body if their numbers are not reduced. Use spot-on or daily preventatives to keep fleas and ticks off your dogs. Other topical remedies include shampoo and spray, which can be helpful.
This table shows the costs of core and non-core vaccinations, emergency care, and other canine medical treatments.:
| Name of the Vaccine | Age to give | Cost |
| Canine parvovirus | 6 to 10 weeks, repeat at 9 to 10 weeks, 12-13 weeks, and 15-17 weeks. | About $75 to $100 for all core vaccines |
| Canine distemper | Same as above | |
| Hepatitis | Same as above | |
| Rabies | 15-17 weeks and booster at one year. Also, based on state laws | |
| Leptospirosis | 9-10 weeks and 12-13 weeks. | $15-$35 |
| Optional vaccines/non-core vaccine – Lyme disease and Canine influenza | 12-13 weeks and booster at 15-17 weeks. | $20-$50 |
| Bordetella (also non-core vaccine) | 6-7 weeks and booster at 9-10 weeks | $19-$45 |
| Flea and tick | Starting from 8 weeks of age/as advised by your vet | $50 for a 3-month supply |
| Deworming | Start at 2-3 weeks, then repeat every two weeks until four deworming. Adult Bloodhounds to be dewormed every three months | $15-$45, depending on the brand of medicine. |
The following table shows the projected costs of various tests for Bloodhounds:
| Name of test | Cost |
| Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
| Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
| Vaccines | $20-$50 |
| Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
| Fecal exam | $25-$55 |
| Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
| Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
| Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
Costs of special tests
| Name of test | Cost |
| Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
| X-ray | Up to $200 |
| USG | Up to $500 |
| Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
| Emergency surgery | Up to $5000 |
Bloodhound Inherited Diseases
Here are some common Bloodhound genetic disorders:
Overbite
Bloodhounds are more prone to brachygnathism than other breeds, which is more common in them. When the lower jaw is abnormally short, it is an overbite; this is considered a deformity.
Most instances do not necessitate treatment, but he will have persistent agony if the incorrectly positioned teeth dig into his mouth. As a result, extractions or orthodontic treatment may be required, which usually costs around $2500.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a genetically affected neurologic disorder that affects the hind legs and is analogous to Lou Gehrig’s Disease in humans. It affects the hind legs, produces paralysis and decreased nerve function, and can be lethal. Bloodhounds are more susceptible to this disease than other breeds.
Eventually, if your dog develops this condition, he will become progressively weak and suffer from immobility in his hindquarters. There is no definite treatment for this condition, so we can not estimate its treatment costs.
Heart Disease
Several cardiac problems can be present at birth in some breeds, including your Bloodhound. In most cases, the heart’s dividing wall or blood arteries are affected by these conditions.
They can also create issues with the electrical signals that govern the heartbeat, as well as with the operation of the heart valves. Heart diseases must be addressed soon, and their treatment usually costs around $3000-$5000.
Retained Testicle
Some male Bloodhounds are born with a disorder in which one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum. This disease is known as cryptorchidism. Instead, the testicle is left in the abdomen, which can lead to difficulties later in life, such as an increased risk of cancer, among other things. Surgical treatment of retained testicles usually costs around $2000.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Both the hips and the elbows are at risk for dysplasia in Bloodhounds. It is a genetic illness that causes the joints to grow incorrectly, resulting in arthritis in the affected joint or joints.
Your Bloodhound may develop elbow and hip stiffness as he matures, which will cause him to have difficulty walking or running around. You may notice that he becomes lame in his legs or that he has trouble getting up from a lying-down position as time goes on. Elbow or hip dysplasia treatment usually costs around $3000-$3500.
Knee Problems
Your Bloodhound’s kneecap (patella) can become misaligned from time to time (called patellar luxation). You could notice that he is running along and then suddenly lifts up a rear leg and jumps or hops for a few paces before continuing.
Afterward, he kicks his limb out sideways in order to snap the kneecap back into position, and he is back to normal. If the disease is minor and affects only one leg, your buddy may not require much more than arthritis medicine to alleviate his or her symptoms.
Surgical realignment of the kneecap may be required if the symptoms are severe enough to prevent the kneecap from popping out of position, which usually costs around $4000.
Pet Insurance for your Bloodhound
Bloodhounds pet insurance is frequently more expensive than other dog breeds, which is logical. This is because it is a rare breed with a unique genetic composition. Rare purebred dog insurance rates are more costly than ordinary purebred dog insurance premiums.
First, do your homework and pick a plan that covers your dogs completely.
Pet insurance companies that have been authorized will cover all of your veterinary expenses, whether they are unexpected or expected. Some companies even pay for your dog’s training and grooming services. For some operations like spaying and neutering, nail trimming, dental cleanings, and nutritional supplements, to name a few examples, several companies provide incentives and reimbursements. Many insurance companies may reduce your deductible by $50 for every year you go without filing a claim.
The table below compares numerous Bloodhound insurance providers on pricing and service:
| Name | Pros | Cons | Cost |
| Embrace | It covers some pre-existing though curable conditions | It could take up to 15 days to process accident/illness claims | Basic coverage starts from $14 per month. |
| Figo | No network limitations, 30-day money-back guarantee if you don’t like their service, voted one of the best insurance for pets in 2021 | Has an enrollment exam | Plans average at $1.50 per day |
| Healthy Paws | No.1Customer-Rated 2010 – 2021
No maximum annual or lifetime payouts. Most claims are processed within two days
|
Not for older pets | $40 basic plan |
Additional Costs of Bloodhound
Professional Grooming
Because Bloodhounds have a dense coat, constant brushing is essential to eliminate loose hair. Brush and floss your pet’s teeth every day. Basic services include bathing, clipping, and nail care, from $40 to $75, depending on your location.
Pet sitting and Boarding costs
If you must leave your Bloodhound at home while you travel, consider hiring a dog sitter to keep an eye on your pet. As an extra service, they may walk your dog twice daily. If you cannot care for your companion due to lack of time, dog boarding options are available. This might cost $30 to $50 each night, depending on the area. A dog sitter will charge roughly $25 per hour for a big dog like a Bloodhound. If you want to take your Bloodhound on vacation, you’ll need to budget between $120-$200 for one-way flight costs.
Dog walking
Bloodhounds demand a lot of physical activity. Keep in mind that these canines were bred to hunt in groups. If you don’t give it enough exercise, it’ll get sick, sad, and maybe even misbehave. A 30-45 minute walk with a large breed dog like a Bloodhound is estimated to cost $35.
Key Takeaways – How Much Does a Bloodhound Cost?
First-year cost
You may anticipate spending at least $2000 on this gorgeous dog in its first year. This does not include the initial capital purchasing price. This costs an extra $500-$1200. Rare Bloodhounds fetch up to $5500 from breeders. The first year’s cost covers immunizations, frequent checkups, supplies, and spaying/neutering.
Depending on size, proper Bloodhound food might cost up to $200 per month. Budget for unexpected vet bills and extra toys, food, and other purchases. Depending on the scenario, the vet treatment might cost up to $300 per visit.
Annual costs
After the first year, the cost of yearly Bloodhound care may surpass $1000 per year. It also covers unexpected vet bills, flea and tick treatments, four-yearly deworming, feeding, and treatment charges.
Lifetime costs
Bloodhounds live 8-10 years. As a result, after the first year, spending $1000 a year for the rest of their lives will amount to more than $11000. If your Bloodhound develops health problems in old age, the expenditures of caring for him or her might soon rise. Therapy and hospitalization will also cost you at least $2000 each year on average. Pet insurance may help you save on these expenses. So go ahead for insurance.
We hope this extensive information helps you plan and budget for your Bloodhound’s arrival.
