About 5 million dogs & cats get killed in the USA every year. Many dogs in shelters have no behavioral issues and are healthy, just unfortunate to have been dumped by owners who no longer want them, or for some reason can no longer care for them. Before you get a cute puppy with all the associated responsibilities, consider saving a life. Advantage of getting a dog from a shelter is also that usually the staff can tell you some things about the temperament of the dog.

For Advice for new dog owners - short form - click here

Do not buy a dog in pet stores. They are bred in puppy mills, where the mothers are kept in deplorable conditions. The dogs often have health problems and are never properly socialized.

Millions of dogs are killed in shelters every year. take the time to look in your local shelters until "your" dog finds you. It will not be too long.

The cost of owning a dog

There are so many good and outright amazing reasons to get and have a dog in your life that I wholeheartedly wish every family, couple and person could have one. And, if you are thinking of having a dog be part of your family or household, go into it open eyed. Don't have this illusion that if you can't take care of it anymore "the shelter" is a safe place for it to be or a place where they will find him/her a new good home. Not so for most shelters. If you decide to get a dog, it really should be a commitment for the dog's life, up to 10-14 years.

The costs to consider are not only monetary, but also time, energy and emotional. The cost will vary depending on whether you get a purebred puppy with the associated cost of the purchase and first year expenses. The cost of a dog is usually more the first year than each year after because of several one-time expenses.If you decide to buy from a breeder, choose a reputable breeder. It will take some time to look around and ask around. Price for a puppy varies from $25 - over $1500. It may well be worth it to pay the price over having to deal with the cost of a "free" but unsound dog with lots of health problems.

Most shelters charge between $ 25 and $400. In some states you may only adopt if the dog is already spayed/neutered.

Licensing fee - $ 10-15

Vet costs are significant
Basic Office visit - about $45
Spay/neuter - 50 - 100 - low cost programs available at most shelters
Puppy vaccinations and boosters is $20-150.
De-worming and fecal exams cost $20-40.
Rabies vaccine - about $ 45

Heartworm tests and medication - $100- $150 /y
Flea and Tick prevention for dogs which are outside a lot: depends on size, large dog, online - about $120/y

Some initial supplies
You will need:
Food and water bowls
collar and leash,
stain cleaner and odor neutralizer for indoor dogs
chew toys
crate or dog house
possibly fencing
brush
small pool?
nail clippers if indoor dog
cost will vary greatly depending on specifics of your situation, and your taste, and more.
in the first year $ 50 - $5000 (the ladder if you need a new fence for a big yard)
I guess you could get away with a couple of bowls and a brush.

Dog Food:

The cost of your dog’s food will depend on his size and what you feed him. The bigger the dog, the more he eats, and premium dog food is more expensive than off-brand kibble. You can save money with a generic food, but it could be at the expense of your dog’s health. But then, expensive food does not necessarily means good and healthy. Do your research. $150 – 500

Training
Depends greatly - but one thing for sure - training your dog needs.
and you need treats!
$100 - 500 or more/y