Are you considering adding a Dalmatian puppy to your household? The good news is that these dogs are not in demand ( although everyone knows about this highly recognizable dog breed). This makes Dalmatian puppy prices quite affordable compared to some of the more popular dog breed prices in the US.
In addition to the Dalmatian puppy price, potential dog owners must also take into account other costs of owning a Dalmatian.
This price guide gives you detailed cost estimates for a Dalmatian’s food, medical expenses, dog training costs, and more.
How Much Does a Purebred Dalmatian Cost in the US?
A Dalmatian puppy from a reputable breeder could cost anywhere between $1000 and $2000. This price varies significantly across the US, and some breeders might charge more – even up to $2500 – for show-quality Dalmatian puppies. The national average cost of a Dalmatian puppy from a reputable breeder is around $1500.
In addition to this buying cost, you also need to consider other expenses that come with dog ownership. In general, the monthly cost of owning this medium to large dog breed can range from $100 to $854. Puppies cost even more.
The first-year cost of owning a Dalmatian comes to around $1850. After the first year, the cost of owning a Dalmatian adult dog is about $800-$1000 per year. Since Dalmatians live for 10-13 years, dog owners can expect to pay between $10,000 and $13000 over their lifetime.
You can always choose to adopt a Dalmatian adult dog. Rescued adult dogs cost a lot less – around $500 – and the adoption fees often cover vaccinations, deworming, and even neutering.
Cost of Basic Supplies for a Dalmatian Puppy
Your playful little Dalmatian puppy will need plenty of stimuli – mentally and physically. In addition to high-quality puppy food, your Dalmatian puppy will also need some basic equipment and supplies for comfort:
- Dog bed and crate – $50 to $400
- Toys and dental chews – $10 to $50
- Leashes, collars, ID tags – $10-$45
- Grooming tools – coat brush, toothbrush, and paste, shampoo, nail clippers – $20-$40
- Urine odor removal spray – $10-$30
Dog Training Costs for Dalmatians
Dog training is very important to prevent behavioral issues in your bold and overconfident Dal. There are many options before you when it comes to training your new puppy:
- At home training with books and videos- $0 to $10
- Group training with a professional dog trainer – $30-$50
- Dog obedience school – $100-$400 per week
- Private sessions with an expert dog trainer – $40 to $200 per session
- Doggy boot camp or board-and-train – $500 to $1250 per week.
Dog Food Costs for Dalmatian
A dog owner could spend between $30 and $55 per month on dog food and treats. Your Dalmatian puppy will need 3-4 meals per day whereas an adult dog could do with 2 meals a day. In any case, do not try to save money by buying cheap dog food as that could result in medical bills later. Always select high-quality dog food with balanced nutrition.
- Dry dog food or kibble – $30-$55 per month
- Wet or canned food – $60-$200
- Raw or BARF diet – $100-$200 per month
- Treats – $10-$50
The total cost of food and treats – annually – comes to $400 and $1500 depending on what you feed your dog, its age, activity levels, etc.
Dalmatian Puppy and Adult Dog Vet Expenses
Expect to spend anywhere between $70 and $190 per month on your dog’s vet expenses. Dalmatian puppies will need several vaccinations in the first few months to prevent deadly canine diseases like parvovirus, distemper, etc.
First-year dog vaccinations cost differently across the country. Expect to pay a lower average of $115 to a higher average of $230 on vaccines alone. These costs depend on the city you live in, on the shots your Dalmation needs, and also on the vet’s clinic. Other medical expenses for Dalmatians could include the following:
- Routine veterinary check-ups – $50 and $120 per year average national cost
- Dental care, lab test, vaccinations – $500-$1000 per year
- Heartworm test – $50
- Fecal exam – $45 to $60
- Spaying – neutering – $100 to $500.
- Emergency surgery/hospitalization – $1000 to $5000
Many vet expenses can be prevented by buying health-tested dogs. Look for reputed breeders who get the parent’s health tested for genetic issues before breeding dogs. They also breed only the healthiest dogs.
Pet Insurance for Dalmations
According to reports, the national average cost of pet insurance is $50 for dogs. This could cover illnesses, regular checkups, and even accidents and emergency costs.
Older and larger dogs always tend to face higher pet insurance costs than Dalmatian puppies. Since the Dalmatian is available in different sizes (miniature, medium, or large), you could pay between $25 to $90 per month to insure your puppy.
Other Costs of Owning a Dalmatian
Dog walker
Dals are very active and energetic dogs that need daily exercise. Without exercise, they could get very destructive. If you hire a dog walker, expect to shell out at least $400 per month since most dog walkers charge between $10-$30 for a single walk of 30 minutes.
Grooming
Dalmatian is a fairly low-maintenance breed. Grooming can be easily done at home but if choose to get your buddy groomed professionally once a month, expect to pay $30 to $45 for basic package.
Pet Sitter/Dog Boarding
If you travel a couple of times a year, you must board your dog in a pet hostel or hire a pet sitter. Most hostels charge between $30 and $50 per night. If you hire a pet sitter, most charge between $35 and $60 per night.
Summary of Dalmatian Price
As can be seen, owning a Dalmatian isn’t cheap. You could easily spend 1500 on average to buy a Dalmatian puppy.
The average first-year cost of owning a Dalmatian puppy is around $1850. After the first year, the for adult dogs drops to around $800-$1000 per year. Since Dalmatians live for 10-13 years, dog owners can expect to pay between $10,000 and $13000 over their pet’s lifetime.
