Thinking about adopting a dog and wondering what the price tag looks like? You’re not alone! While adopting is usually much more affordable than buying from a breeder or pet store, there are still some costs involved — though in some cases, the fee can be surprisingly low.
To break it all down, Shelby Semel, head trainer at Animal Haven in New York City, and Dr. Michelle Burch, a veterinarian at Paramount Pet Health give us guidance.
So, how much does it cost to adopt a rescue dog?
“Adoption fees can range anywhere from $50 to $750,” Semel explained.
That wide range depends on several factors, including:
- Where you live
- The shelter or rescue group
- Breed popularity
- The dog’s age (puppies typically cost more)
It’s always smart to check with the rescue ahead of time so you know what to expect.
What does that adoption fee actually cover?
Unlike buying a dog — where you’re paying for the dog and nothing else — adoption fees often include valuable veterinary care. Many rescues provide:
- A full wellness exam
- Vaccinations (rabies, distemper, parvo, Bordetella)
- Heartworm testing and prevention
- Flea/tick treatment
- Fecal testing
- Deworming
- Spay or neuter surgery
- Microchip
That’s a huge savings, considering buying from a breeder can cost well over $1,000 and typically includes none of these services.
Plus, spay/neuter surgeries alone can run anywhere from $35 to $400, depending on where you live — and adoption usually takes that off your plate entirely.
Are supplies included?
Most of the time, no. Dr. Burch notes that some shelters send dogs home with a small starter bag of food or a toy, but you’ll still need to buy the essentials:
- Leash and collar
- Dog bed and crate
- Food and water bowls
- Toys
- Nail trimmers
And don’t forget: You'll need a vet visit within the first week or two to establish care and follow up on any needed vaccines.
Other expenses to expect
Outside the adoption fee, the cost of owning a dog typically falls between $1,400 and $5,000 per year, depending on things like:
- Food quality
- Routine vet care
- Grooming
- Unexpected medical needs
- Special diets or medications
While that number can vary widely, being financially ready is an important part of giving your new dog a stable home.
The payoff? Completely priceless.
When you adopt, you’re not just bringing home a dog — you’re giving a homeless pup a second chance and helping reduce overcrowding in shelters. You save a life, make room for another dog to be rescued, and gain a devoted best friend.
A little cost upfront… endless love in return.
