Cost of a Chinese Crested Dog Puppy by US Region [2024]

Chinese Crested Dogs, known for their unique appearance and affectionate nature, make excellent companions for various lifestyles. Whether you choose the hairless or the powderpuff variety, these small dogs are adaptable and relatively low-maintenance.

Here’s an estimation of how much a Chinese Crested Dog puppy might cost across different regions of the USA:

1. Northeast (New York, Massachusetts): Prices in the Northeast can be among the highest, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500. The higher costs in urban areas like New York City can reflect the overall cost of living and demand.
2. Midwest (Illinois, Ohio): In the Midwest, prices are generally moderate. Expect to pay around $1,000 to $2,000 for a Chinese Crested puppy, depending on the breeder’s reputation and the puppy’s lineage.
3. South (Texas, Florida): In Southern states, you might find puppies priced between $1,200 and $2,000. The variance in price often depends on specific state regulations and the breeder’s setup.
4. West (California, Washington): The West Coast shows a higher price range similar to the Northeast, with puppies costing between $1,500 and $2,500. This region’s pricing often reflects its large cities’ high cost of living and the popularity of unique pet breeds.

Benefits of Adopting from a Rescue

Adopting a Chinese Crested Dog from a rescue offers numerous benefits. Rescues often provide a cost-effective alternative to purchasing from a breeder, with adoption fees significantly lower than buying a puppy. Moreover, adopting from a rescue helps give a second chance to dogs in need of a loving home. Rescue dogs often come with vaccinations, are spayed or neutered, and have been evaluated for temperament, making the transition to a new home smoother for both the dog and the owner. Adopting can be an enriching experience, knowing you are providing a home to a pet that might otherwise go unloved.

The Lifetime Costs of Owning a Chinese Crested Dog

Owning a Chinese Crested Dog brings with it a variety of expenses beyond the initial acquisition. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs associated with caring for one of these unique pets throughout their lifetime.

• Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential. Annual visits for vaccinations, dental care, and routine health checks can cost approximately $200 to $500. Additionally, Chinese Crested Dogs, particularly the hairless variety, may require more frequent skin care and treatment for any skin-related issues, which can increase these costs.
• Food and Supplies: These small dogs require a relatively modest amount of food. High-quality dog food tailored to their size and energy level typically costs about $20 to $60 per month. Costs for bowls, beds, grooming supplies, and toys can add an additional $100 to $300 annually.
• Grooming: The hairless variety requires regular skincare to prevent acne and sunburn, potentially requiring special shampoos or lotions. The powderpuff variant, with its soft, dense coat, may need professional grooming every few months. Overall, grooming expenses could range from $200 to $700 annually depending on the dog’s needs and the frequency of professional grooming services.
• Health Insurance: Opting for pet health insurance can mitigate some of the costs associated with potential health issues. Premiums can vary widely but expect to spend around $200 to $600 per year for a comprehensive plan.
• Training and Socialization: Although Chinese Crested Dogs are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, professional training classes are recommended, especially for socialization and obedience. Costs for training can range from $50 to $200 for a basic training course.
• Emergency Costs: Unforeseen medical emergencies can happen, and dealing with issues like broken bones, serious illness, or emergency surgeries can be costly. It’s prudent to have a reserve fund or consider the upper end of health insurance.

Over their lifetime, which can span 13 to 18 years, the total cost of owning a Chinese Crested Dog can range from $10,000 to $30,000, accounting for basic care and maintenance, with higher costs possible depending on health issues and lifestyle choices. This estimate helps prospective owners understand the financial commitment involved in caring for these delightful companions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Costs of Owning a Chinese Crested Dog

1. What is the average monthly food cost for a Chinese Crested Dog?

The monthly food cost for a Chinese Crested Dog typically ranges from $20 to $60, depending on the brand and type of food. Since they are small dogs, their food consumption is relatively low, but opting for high-quality food can increase the price.

2. How much does routine veterinary care cost for a Chinese Crested Dog?

Routine veterinary care for a Chinese Crested Dog can cost between $200 and $500 annually. This includes vaccinations, annual check-ups, and basic preventive medications like those for fleas and ticks.

3. Are there any specific grooming needs for a Chinese Crested Dog that might affect costs?

Yes, grooming costs can vary significantly. The hairless variety requires special skincare to prevent issues like acne and sunburn, potentially adding to regular grooming expenses, which can range from $200 to $700 a year depending on the level of care.

4. What are typical emergency vet costs for a Chinese Crested Dog?

Emergency veterinary costs can vary widely but expect to pay several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the severity of the condition. This underscores the importance of having a financial plan or pet insurance.

5. How much should I budget annually for toys and accessories for a Chinese Crested Dog?

Budget around $50 to $150 annually for toys and accessories. While they don’t require a lot of toys, keeping them stimulated with new items can contribute to their overall well-being.

6. What are the potential additional costs for a Chinese Crested Dog with special health needs?

Dogs with special health needs may require additional medications, special diets, or more frequent vet visits. This can increase annual costs by hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the condition and required treatments.

7. How much does pet insurance cost for a Chinese Crested Dog?

Pet insurance premiums for a Chinese Crested Dog can range from $200 to $600 per year. The cost depends on the coverage level, deductible, and the dog’s age and health status.

8. Can I expect any breed-specific health issues that might increase ownership costs?

Yes, Chinese Crested Dogs can have breed-specific issues like dental problems, skin ailments in the hairless variety, and some common genetic disorders. These can lead to higher veterinary costs throughout their life.

9. What does professional training cost for a Chinese Crested Dog?

Professional training can cost between $50 to $200 for basic obedience classes. More specialized or ongoing training can increase these costs significantly.

10. How does the cost of living impact the overall expenses of owning a Chinese Crested Dog?

The cost of living in your area can significantly impact the overall expenses, particularly in terms of vet care, grooming services, and even food prices. Urban areas typically see higher costs due to increased demand and higher business overheads.