The aspiration of welcoming a furry companion into your home often doesn’t align with the practicalities of dog ownership. Beyond the initial excitement, there are a slew of considerations, including the adoption or breeder fees. Forbes conducted a comprehensive survey of 10,000 dog owners across every state in the United States to shed light on the true expenses involved in bringing a dog home. Hence, we will take a look at the least expensive states where you can buy a dog.
However, we strongly advocate for adoption over purchasing dogs. Countless dogs in shelters and rescue organizations await loving homes, so adopt and don’t shop.
List of the least expensive US states to buy a dog
Acquiring a dog in certain U.S. states may come at a lower initial cost. Still, prospective dog owners should anticipate maintenance expenses such as toys, accessories, dog food, and ongoing veterinary care throughout the pet’s lifetime.
Nonetheless, here are the least expensive states in the U.S. to buy a dog:
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma dog owners spend, on average, $172.47 to acquire a dog, which is less than half the national average.
- Kentucky: Kentucky is among two states where dog owners can acquire a dog for less than $200, with the average price being $196.17.
- Mississippi: Mississippi stands out as one of the most cost-effective states for acquiring a dog, with many owners obtaining a dog at an average price of $212.94.
- Tennessee: In Tennessee, dog owners predominantly acquire their dogs from breeders, showing a preference for puppies. The average cost of acquisition is $233.67.
- Kansas: Kansas distinguishes itself as the sole Midwestern state among the five least costly states to acquire a dog, with a higher prevalence of dog owners adopting from shelters rather than purchasing from breeders, at an average cost of $246.19.
It’s important to note that puppies in pet stores often come from puppy mills, where over 2 million dogs are bred each year in horrendous conditions. Moreover, nearly 10,000 puppy mills operate in the US, subjecting dogs to overcrowded and abusive environments for profit. Adoption from shelters helps end these cruel practices and gives dogs a loving home.
