Cost calculator
Getting a dog is a serious commitment. These are the real costs — no sugarcoating.
Set your situation and see what you'll spend each month.
What you pay upfront
The monthly calculator below shows recurring costs. But before that, here's what you pay once.
Breed size
Insurance
Your cost estimate
Source: average pet store prices US 2024
Source: Healthy Paws, Embrace, Trupanion rate data 2024
Source: American Pet Products Association 2024
Source: estimated based on owner community data
These are averages — your actual costs may vary. Expenses tend to rise as a dog gets older. Dog sitter, boarding, grooming, training, and one-time purchases are separate.
Some links on this page are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Which insurer should you choose?
Five US providers, side by side on the points that matter most. Premiums shown are estimates for a medium-sized dog.
| Provider | Premium/mo | Deductible | Max/year | Surgery | Hereditary conditions covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Healthy PawsCovers hereditary + unlimited max | $30–$60 | $250 | Unlimited | ✓ | ✓ |
Trupanion | $35–$70 | $0 per condition | Unlimited | ✓ | ✓ |
Lemonade | $20–$50 | $100–$500 | $100k | ✓ | — |
Pets Best | $25–$55 | $50–$1,000 | Unlimited | ✓ | — |
Embrace | $25–$65 | $200–$1,000 | $5k–$30k | ✓ | ✓ |
Premiums shown are estimate ranges for a healthy 2-year-old medium-sized dog. Your actual premium depends on breed, age, and health. Check current policy terms directly with the provider before you buy.
Curious which breed fits your situation and budget?
Find my breed →