If you are planning on welcoming a Miniature American Shepherd at home, you will need to account for several expenses. These include the cost of the puppy or dog itself, vet fees, training expenses, food, supplies, grooming and more. To help you budget and plan, we have developed a cost calculator that lets you estimate your yearly and overall costs when it comes to raising a Miniature American Shepherd.
A Miniature American Shepherd puppy is likely to cost between $450-$1,500 with the average price being $800. First-year expenses are around $3,280 and will be about $1,320/year (or $110/month) after that. Through the dog’s lifetime, the average cost of owning a Miniature American Shepherd is $19,120.
These figures are based on essential expenses. Supplies, training cost, medical expenses, food, treats, grooming costs, license registration and microchip are included. Optional costs, such as sterilization and insurance, as well as dog boarding and dog walking could add up to these amounts. For example, if you spay/neuter your dog, buy pet insurance, send your dog to a boarding facility one week every year, and have him walked by a professional during the week, your total cost of ownership could rise to $94,540 on average and should be in the $64,505-$128,385 range.
If you are living in an expensive area and/or are planning to purchase high quality products and services, you will want to consider the higher end of the price range. The lower end of the spectrum indicates prices in less expensive areas.
In the rest of the article, you will find a comprehensive explanation of the expenses that come with raising a Miniature American Shepherd. At the end we have added a cost calculator that lets you assess your habits and needs, and ultimately, generate a much more accurate estimate as to the overall cost of owning this breed.
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For general information about the cost of puppies and dogs, you can read The True Cost of a Dog (50 breeds compared) on our blog. If you are serious about adopting or buying this breed, keep reading this article. To compare the cost with other ones, visit our All Breeds page. You can also read our New Dog Owner Guide to learn everything about welcoming a dog home.
Quick Links
- Puppy Cost
- Supplies Cost
- Training Cost (dog trainer’s opinion)
- Medical Cost (veterinarian’s opinion)
- Food Cost
- Grooming Cost (groomer’s opinion)
- Other Costs (dog walker’s opinion)
- Total Cost
- PetBudget Cost Calculator
Miniature American Shepherd puppy price
After reviewing over 1100 ads from sources that include the American Kennel Club and PuppyFind, we have found that the price of a Miniature American Shepherd puppy (6-month-old and younger) ranges from $450 to $1,500. The average cost is $800, with 80% of the prices found falling within the previous range.
Puppy Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Miniature American Shepherd | $450 – $1,500 | $800 |
For a purebred with documents, expect to pay as high as $3,500. On the other hand, adoption prices are considerably lower, with rehoming or adoption fees typically falling between $50 and $500 across the board.
Always give your business to reputable breeders and shelters to increase your chances to raise a healthy and happy Miniature American Shepherd. Also, keep in mind that prices vary according to location, so you might be able to save money if you locate a shelter or breeder in a cheaper locality.
WONDERING HOW AND WHERE TO FIND A MINI AMERICAN SHEPHERD PUPPY TO BUY OR A DOG TO ADOPT? Our Guide will help you find a dog near you. We share the 18 best places to find your perfect pet.
Puppies Price Range | Ads Reviewed |
$150 – $750 | 443 |
$751 – $1,350 | 496 |
$1,351 – $1,950 | 122 |
$1,951 – $2,550 | 35 |
$2,551 – $3,150 | 5 |
$3,151 – $3,500 | 1 |
Total | 1102 |
This data is 100% original and has been collected by PetBudget’s team.
“As a veterinarian, I think Miniature American Shepherd breeding dogs should be evaluated or tested for the following conditions prior to and throughout their breeding years: hip dysplasia, eye examination by an ophthalmologist, collie eye anomaly (DNA test), multiple drug sensitivity (MDR1 mutation DNA test), progressive retinal atrophy (DNA test), hereditary cataracts (DNA test). Buyers should ask the breeder about health screening tests performed.”
Leslie Brooks, DVM – Licensed Veterinarian
If you want to know more about the price of puppies in the US or compare this breed with 150 others, check our puppy prices article based on the analysis of close to 50,000 ads (for 151 different breeds).
Factors affecting the price of puppies and why prices vary for the same breed.
Purebred or mixed. Usually, mixed-breeds are sold at a lower price than purebred dogs.
Bloodline and breeder’s reputation. If the parents are purebred show quality dogs from a reputable breeder, the price will be substantially higher. These breeders also tend to invest more money than others to take care of their breeding dogs and puppies.
Registration papers/pedigree. Some breeders are members of kennel clubs, the most famous being the American Kennel Club (AKC). They can also have their breeding dogs and puppies registered which would also add to their fees.
Health screenings and medical expenses. Serious breeders will have their breeding dogs and/or puppies evaluated/tested for different medical conditions. Moreover, some will take their puppies to the vet for an exam, deworming, vaccines, and/or microchip implantation prior to selling them. This drives the price higher but also reduces the risk to get an unhealthy dog.
Training and socialization. Some breeders sell their dogs after they are trained and socialized. It will increase the puppy’s price but generate savings as you most probably won’t have to invest in more training and also gives a better chance to get a well-behaved dog.
Breed popularity in the buyer’s location. Local supply and demand will have an impact on puppy prices. For example, small dogs tend to be more popular in metropolitan areas where people live in smaller spaces. Some breeds are more in demand in colder climates, others where hunting is popular, etc. It is worth looking for prices in different locations, but it is risky to buy a dog without having seen it before or at least have met with the breeder and visited the kennel.
Age. As most people want to get their puppy as young as possible, prices tend to be lower when the dog gets older. For example, on average a 6-month-old pup is likely to be less expensive than an 8-week-old one.
Coat color and markings. Coat color trends can change quickly. For any breed, some colors are more popular than others, sometimes temporarily. When the interest for a specific coat color grows, puppies get more expensive as an increase in demand leads to a higher market price. Also, for purebred dogs, only specific colors and color combinations are accepted by kennel clubs. Finally, puppies with rare colors can be very expensive as well.
The cost of supplies for a medium-sized dog
Supplies generally entail a few necessary items that you need to care for your new dog. As detailed in the table below, these products, through the course of the puppy’s first year, add up to a $410 expense on average ($185-$790 range) depending on your locality as well as the stores that are accessible to you and the brands chosen. Price ranges and average costs are based on a list of 250 best-selling items found at Walmart, PetSmart and on Amazon.
Supplies Prices | Range | Average Cost |
Food & Water Bowls | $5 – $40 | $15 |
Dog Collars (x2) | $10 – $40 | $20 |
Leash | $5 – $20 | $10 |
ID Tag with Phone Number | $5 – $20 | $10 |
Dog Bed (36″ or 42″) | $20 – $85 | $50 |
Dog Crate (36″ or 42″) | $30 – $120 | $55 |
Plastic Poop Bags (900-1080) | $15 – $110 | $55 |
Pooper Scooper | $10 – $30 | $20 |
House Training Pads (75-100) | $15 – $45 | $25 |
Stains and Odors Removal Spray | $5 – $20 | $10 |
Toys | $30 – $100 | $60 |
First-Aid Kit | $15 – $50 | $30 |
Brush | $5 – $45 | $15 |
Shampoo | $5 – $20 | $10 |
Tooth-brushing Kit | $5 – $15 | $10 |
Toenail Clippers | $5 – $30 | $15 |
As your Miniature American Shepherd grows, the supplies expenses go down. For each subsequent year, you will be looking at expenses in the $75-$330 range, with an average cost of $185. Usually, you will want to buy a new bed, toys, poop bags, shampoo and a tooth-brushing essential every year.
Total Supplies Cost | Range | Average Cost |
First Year | $185 – $790 | $410 |
Subsequent Years | $75 – $330 | $185 |
Additionally, you may need products that are not accounted for in our list, such as clothing, play pens, fences, muzzles, harnesses, anti-chew sprays, etc. If you are on a budget, visit second-hand stores and websites as it may offer major saving opportunities.
Check our Dog Supplies Guide and get tips to choose the right items for you and your dog (bowls, collar, leash, bed, and crate size, etc.). Learn everything about costs, and find the best products available.
If you are on a budget check our special selection and buy everything new for less than $200.
Leave your email at the top or bottom of this article to get our free supplies checklist with tips to select the right size for each product.
Does a Miniature American Shepherd need training?
According to expert animal behaviorists like Alexa Diaz, Ph.D., training is recommended for a Miniature American Shepherd and should cost between $700 and $1,000. Training should include three to five private lessons for positive leadership ($550-$800) as well as five 1-hour group training sessions to cover basic obedience and socialization ($150-$200).
Training Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Miniature American Shepherd | $700 – $1,000 | $850 |
A good dog training book is also a good idea and should help you get a grasp on the basics and can make training your dog much easier!
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You will learn everything you need to know to raise, train, and care for your dog: from choosing the right puppy, training techniques, picking supplies, finding a vet, selecting the right food, handling behavioral issues, and much more. You can listen and learn so much about raising a dog while going to work, running errands, exercising, etc. This audiobook can definitely make a difference.
If you want to know whether to train your dog yourself or hire a professional and learn about the cost of training classes and supplies, check our article written with a certified dog trainer.
“Mini American Shepherds are very intelligent and easy to train. They are also full of energy and need a lot of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs and love new experiences.”
Alexa Diaz, Ph. D. – Animal Behaviorist
The medical costs for a Miniature American Shepherd
Experts like licensed veterinarian Leslie Brooks, DVM, agree that dog owners should account for medical expenses in their pet budget. On average, a Miniature American Shepherd owner can expect first-year medical expenses to be around $595. Additionally, spay/neuter and possibly, a DNA test might be considered. These cost $50-$300 and $55-$65, respectively.
For each adult year, expect to spend about $530 to cover trips to the vet, as well as some of the additional medication that may be required, such as heartworm or flea prevention.
Medical Cost | Range | Average Cost |
First Year Vet Cost | $395 – $795 | $595 |
Spay/Neuter (optional) | $50 – $300 | $175 |
DNA Test (optional) | $55 – $65 | $60 |
Adult Year Vet Cost | $330 – $725 | $530 |
Vet cost for a Miniature American Shepherd puppy during the first year
Dr Brooks recommends a minimum of three visits to the vet over the course of the Miniature American Shepherd puppy’s first year under your care, with the first session at roughly 8 weeks of age. Each trip ranges from $65-$170 and takes care of the puppy’s overall health (physical exams, essential vaccines, fecal examination, flea, and heartworm prevention).
Additionally, she also suggests pursuing heartworm (to prevent development of heartworm disease, especially in the Southeast US where this disease is rampant) and flea prevention medication for the rest of the year, which are likely to cost $10-$15 per month each for a puppy.
Moreover, your dog may require vaccines that depend on lifestyle and activities. Leptospirosis is a common problem if the dog is exposed to wildlife or taken on camping/hiking trips often. ($15-$25 but is sometimes already included with essential vaccines). Influenza medication is required if the dog is boarded or kept in a daycare for extended periods of time ($70-$90 for two doses). Finally, Lyme vaccination is necessary if the dog is exposed to ticks when hiking, camping or being in the woods or on a farm ($60-$80 for two doses).
As the Miniature American Shepherd begins to grow older, a neutering or spaying procedure may be considered, with the price being $100-$300 depending on the clinics in your locality (some charge as low as $50 for the procedure). Generally, spays (female) are slightly more expensive.
Dr Brooks would also recommend a DNA test for MDR1 gene mutation (Multiple Drug Sensitivity screening). It usually costs $55-$65. This is good information to know prior to any surgical procedure and prescribing certain medications throughout the dog’s life.
Miniature American Shepherd veterinary expenses for subsequent years
Each year after the first one requires one annual trip to the veterinarian. They usually range from $125-$265 at Leslie Brooks’ clinic and include a physical exam, vaccinations, and heartworm test. Blood work could be recommended for middle aged and senior dogs to detect any hidden medical condition and make sure nothing is wrong with the Miniature American Shepherd.
Dr Brooks also recommends continuing heartworm and flea prevention medicine, which usually fall in the $65-$100/year and $140-$200/year respectively for a dog of this size.
Booster shots for optional vaccines (Lyme, Influenza, Leptospirosis) could also prove to be necessary and cost $15-$45 each. Finally, fecal examinations may be required in some cases, adding another $40-$50 to the total cost.
Some known Miniature American Shepherd potential health issues
The table below sums up some conditions that may affect a Miniature American Shepherd during its life as well as an estimate of the costs to treat them. The information was provided by licensed veterinarian Leslie Brooks, DVM.
Health Problem | Likelihood | Treatment Cost Estimate |
Patellar Luxation | Medium | $350 – $2,000 |
Allergies (food or environmental) | Medium | $100 – $2,000 per year |
Eye Abnormalities | Medium | $300 – $3,000 |
Dental Disease | High | $400 – $800 |
Patellar luxation: the low end of the cost estimate covers pain management as needed and joint supplements, while the high end of the range is if surgery is needed. Not all dogs need surgery (only if it is causing them a lot of pain and if they cannot get their knee back in place on their own).
Allergies: the cost depends if the pet has allergies throughout the year or just 1-2 flare ups per year. It would also depend on the owner’s decision to proceed with allergy testing and injections. Note that the pet may also need to be fed prescription food, which can easily be as high as $100 per month.
Eye Abnormalities: $300-$800 for progressive retinal atrophy (diagnostics as there is no treatment). $1,500-$3,000 for congenital cataracts (diagnostics and surgery per eye affected).
Dental disease: this is the cost estimate for the dental procedures to clean the teeth and remove any infected teeth if needed. It will likely need to be done two to four times throughout a Miniature American Shepherd’s life.
“Miniature American Shepherds have a lot of energy that needs to be let out, so budgeting for agility or training classes for mental stimulation is a good idea. “
Leslie Brooks, DVM – Licensed Veterinarian
Pet insurance price
The North American Pet Health Insurance Association’s latest State of the Industry Report states that the average price of insurance for both accident and illness coverage is $565 per year for a dog, while accident only plans cost $190 on average. Getting a pet insurance is totally up to the dog owner and can help mitigate the financial risk coming with unplanned medical expenses. Contact pet insurance companies to know more about the coverage and prices.
It is also possible to get complete health coverage with some insurance companies but it gets much more expensive.
If you wonder whether or not you should get pet insurance, we have a simple step by step guide to help you make the decision. This could save you thousands of dollars.
As mentioned, some medical conditions can be expensive to treat. Although purebred dogs may have a higher incidence of some inherited disorders, mixed breed dogs are also likely to develop health conditions, such as cancer and heart disorders. No dog owner should have to make critical decisions about their pets based on their ability to afford care. That’s why pet insurance is more popular every year in the US.
When comparing pet insurances, price is a significant factor, but it is also essential to consider:
– Deductible type (per incident or per year) and amount
– Reimbursements percentage and limits
– Services included (emergency visits, hospitalization, surgery, medications, specialists, cancer treatments, pre-existing conditions, etc.)
– When coverage will start
The price will vary depending on multiple factors, including the dog’s breed, age, location, and the plan chosen. You can compare pet insurance prices on comparison websites like PetInsuranceReview.
Read our article titled a veterinarian explains medical costs for a dog to learn more and get tips to save on vet expenses.
What is the cost to feed a Miniature American Shepherd?
Miniature American Shepherds grow to be 30 lb. on average (usually 20 to 40 lb.). As a result, puppies tend to consume 110 lb. of dry food on average during their first year. This puts food expenses in the $105-$175 range. Adults typically eat more, close to 160 lb. a year, and therefore will require $90 -$270 worth of food every year.
This is based on the recommendations and costs of four popular brands: Purina, Purina One, Blue Buffalo and Pedigree.
Yearly Food Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Puppy | $105 – $175 | $135 |
Adult Dog | $90 – $270 | $155 |
You may also want to have some additional treats on hand to help with obedience training or simply please your dog. This can add $115-$335 to your food-related expenses based on prices seen on Amazon, PetSmart, and Walmart.
Treats Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Yearly Treats | $115 – $335 | $240 |
This cost estimation for treats is based on the premise that the dog gets one big treat every day. If you give your dog a treat every other day, you can divide these amounts by two. If it is once a week, divide them by seven, and so on. Enter the relevant information in the calculator at the end of the article to get your personalized cost estimate.
Keep in mind that prices are largely related to the quality of food and treats you buy – if you opt for premium grade products, your expenses are bound to be higher by quite a considerable margin.
Four dog food brands compared
A Miniature American Shepherd puppy can be expected to eat around 110 lb. of dry food during its first year.
Puppy Food Brands | Quantity per Bag | Number of Bags / Year | Unit Price | Total Price |
Purina – Puppy Chow | 36 lb. | 4 | $27.78 (Walmart) | $111.12 |
Purina One – Smart Blend Puppy | 16.5 lb. | 7 | $21.98 (Walmart) | $153.86 |
Pedigree – Puppy | 36 lb. | 4 | $25.83 (Walmart) | $103.32 |
Blue Buffalo – Puppy | 30 lb. | 4 | $44.08 (Amazon) | $176.32 |
An adult will need close to 160 lb. of food depending on its actual weight, age, and level of activity.
Adult Food Brands | Quantity per Bag | Number of Bags / Year | Unit Price | Total Price |
Purina – Dog Chow | 50 lb. | 4 | $22.98 (Walmart) | $91.92 |
Purina One – Smart Blend | 40 lb. | 4 | $40.36 (Walmart) | $161.44 |
Pedigree – Adult | 50 lb. | 4 | $25.83 (Walmart) | $103.32 |
Blue Buffalo – Adult | 30 lb. | 6 | $44.98 (Amazon) | $269.88 |
Additionally, dog food is perishable, but can be stored for extended periods of time. This means that bulk purchases are a viable option and will give you the best bang for buck on the market. So, consider bulk-purchasing food for your Miniature American Shepherd after consulting with your vet to decide which type of dog food would best suit your dog.
Example for a more expensive premium brand
Royal Canin – Size Health Nutrition | Quantity per Bag | Number of Bags / Year | Unit Price | Total Price |
Medium Puppy | 30 lb. | 4 | $65.99 (PetSmart) | $263.96 |
Medium Adult | 30 lb. | 6 | $64.99 (PetSmart) | $389.94 |
This illustrates the price difference between budget-friendly and premium dog food.
Miniature American Shepherd grooming
Unless owners groom their Miniature American Shepherd themselves at home, which is possible according to Corryne Smith (dog groomer), she would suggest taking this breed to a professional groomer 6 times a year on average. Prices range from $40 to $65 for each visit. Taking the dog to a professional groomer is the owner’s decision but could be beneficial for the dog’s health and well-being.
Therefore, the yearly cost for grooming services would either be $0 if the dog is groomed by its owner all the time, or $240 to $390 if done by a professional.
Yearly Grooming Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Miniature American Shepherd | $0 – $390 | $195 |
Professional dog grooming usually includes a bath and shampoo, hair removal (if needed), brushing and styling, nail trimming, teeth brushing and eye and ear cleaning. Prices will vary depending on multiple factors, such as dog size, coat condition, health and age, dog behavior and the services requested.
You can find grooming kits online for $75 on average and they ship with all the tools and equipment you will need to handle your Miniature American Shepherd’s grooming needs at home!
Additional costs to consider
Additional Costs | Range | Average Cost |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Microchip | $25 – $50 | $40 |
Dog Walking (per walk) | $15 – $25 | $20 |
Dog Boarding (per day) | $25 – $85 | $40 |
License
Licenses range from $10-$20 across the U.S.A, provided your dog is spayed or neutered. If not, the cost is likely to be a little bit higher. We strongly recommend licensing your dog, as it can be illegal, depending on state and local regulations, to own an unlicensed dog. Moreover, it makes identification and locating in the case of emergencies that much easier.
Microchip
Microchips create a unique identification to your Miniature American Shepherd, allowing them to be on medical and emergency databases. Many U.S. states require dogs to be microchipped and it will cost $25-$50.
Dog walking
Tamaria Reddick, a professional dog walker and sitter, says that Miniature American Shepherd are energetic and need daily exercise. If you cannot dedicate the time to make sure your dog gets its fair share of exercise, she strongly recommends hiring a dog walker.
Generally, 30-minute walks range from $15-$25, with 1-hour walks falling in the $20-$50 range. Walkers can be found easily on apps such as Rover or Wag. An owner might need to pay for private walks if the dog is not well socialized. These are obviously more expensive.
Traveling
Leaving any dog alone is highly inadvisable if you are traveling over days, weeks, let alone months. Dog boarding services are generally available and accessible, provided you plan. They cost between $25-$85 a day, depending on location, services offered and the time of year. During particularly busy stretches of the year, such as the holidays, you will need to book a dog boarding service in advance, as you are likely to get much better prices.
If you are on a tight budget, checking with any friends or family to see if they would be willing to host your Miniature American Shepherd is a good idea, as these prices can add up very quickly.
Finally, you might be able to take your dog with you, as many airlines and train companies offer special provisions to help move your pets. You will have to submit a formal request ahead of time though, so make sure to plan your trips early. Moreover, the cost varies drastically, as it depends on several variables.
Yearly and monthly cost of a Miniature American Shepherd
How much is a Mini American Shepherd puppy during the first year?
The average cost of raising a Miniature American Shepherd for the first year falls within the $1,985 to $5,055 range, with an average cost of $3,280. Most of these expenses will happen early and will hardly be avoidable, as they are essential to the health and well-being of your Miniature American Shepherd.
First Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Puppy | $450 – $1,500 | $800 |
Supplies | $185 – $790 | $410 |
Training | $700 – $1,000 | $850 |
Medical | $395 – $795 | $595 |
Food & Treats | $220 – $510 | $375 |
Grooming | $0 – $390 | $195 |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Microchip | $25 – $50 | $40 |
First Year Total | $1,985 – $5,055 | $3,280 |
Potential additional expenses include sterilization, dog insurance and services like dog walking and dog boarding.
Optional First Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Spay/Neuter | $50 – $300 | $175 |
DNA Test | $55 – $65 | $60 |
Insurance | $350 – $780 | $565 |
Dog Walking (30 minutes per day) | $15 – $25 | $20 |
Dog Boarding (per day) | $25 – $85 | $40 |
Assuming you spay/neuter your dog, require the services of a dog walker 5 days a week for 42 weeks (30-minute walks), enroll in an insurance plan and use a boarding service for 1 week of the year, your first year cost is likely to rise into the $5,765 to $12,045 range.
Potential First Year Cost | Range | Average Cost |
With Spay/Neuter and Insurance | $2,440 – $6,200 | $4,080 |
With Spay/Neuter, Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $5,765 – $12,045 | $8,560 |
Adult Miniature American Shepherd yearly and monthly costs
For each adult year, a Miniature American Shepherd will require $620-$2,070 in essential expenses, depending on your locality as well as the pet-related businesses that are accessible to you. On a monthly basis we are talking costs in the $52-$173 range or $110 on average.
Adult Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Supplies | $75 – $330 | $185 |
Medical | $330 – $725 | $530 |
Food & Treats | $205 – $605 | $395 |
Grooming | $0 – $390 | $195 |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Adult Year Total | $620 – $2,070 | $1,320 |
Estimated Monthly Cost | $52 – $173 | $110 |
Assuming you use a dog walker every weekday for 50 weeks, maintain your insurance enrollment and send the dog to a boarding facility for 1 week, you can expect to spend as high as $4,895-$9,695 every year ($408-$808 every month).
Potential Adult Year Cost | Range | Average Cost |
With Insurance | $970 – $2,850 | $1,885 |
With Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $4,895 – $9,695 | $7,165 |
Miniature American Shepherd cost of ownership
Miniature American Shepherds have an average life expectancy of 13 years (usually 12 to 13 years). This puts the overall cost of ownership in the $9,425 to $29,895 range using the figures outlined above. On average, an owner can expect to spend $19,120 over the years.
Total Cost of Ownership (13 years) | Range | Average Cost |
Miniature American Shepherd | $9,425 – $29,895 | $19,120 |
Using the same additional costs scenarios introduced in the previous sections of the article (spay/neuter, insurance, dog walking and dog boarding), you will be looking at total cost of ownership range of $64,505 to $128,385, with an average overall cost of $94,540 for 13 years.
Potential Total Cost of Ownership (13 years) | Range | Average Cost |
With Spay/Neuter and Insurance | $14,080 – $40,400 | $26,700 |
With Spay/Neuter, Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $64,505 – $128,385 | $94,540 |
Thank you for reading us! Stay tuned for more information about pet costs, product reviews and saving tips.
PetBudget Miniature American Shepherd cost calculator
The cost of a Miniature American Shepherd – A summary in 7 questions
1- How much is a Miniature American Shepherd puppy?
On average a Miniature American Shepherd puppy will cost $800 in the USA. Most puppies can be found between $450 and $1,500. The price will vary depending on the breeder and location as well as the dog’s bloodline, color, and age among other things.
2 – How much are dog supplies?
A new owner can expect an initial investment between $185 and $790 in supplies when welcoming a medium-sized dog. Every year, the cost to renew some of them should be between $75 and $330. Prices vary depending on location, stores, brands, and products quality.
3 – Does a Miniature American Shepherd need training and how much will it cost?
Having a Miniature American Shepherd professionally trained is usually recommended (both private and group training) and should cost around $700 to $1,000. For this breed, training should mainly focus on basic obedience, socialization, and positive leadership.
4 – What is the cost of preventive medical care for a Miniature American Shepherd?
Preventive medical care should amount to around $395 to $795 for a Miniature American Shepherd puppy during the first year and around $330 to $725 every adult year. This does not include a spay or neuter procedure (usually between $100 and $300).
5 – How much food does a Miniature American Shepherd eat and how much will it cost?
A Miniature American Shepherd puppy will eat around 110 lb. and an adult close to 160 lb. of dry food yearly (it varies for each dog and food brand). Annual expenses should be between $105 and $265 for a puppy and $90 to $390 for an adult dog. Other types of food and treats would increase the costs.
6 – How often should a Miniature American Shepherd be professionally groomed and how much will it cost?
Grooming a Miniature American Shepherd is easy enough that most owners should be able to do it themselves. Those who prefer having their dog professionally groomed can expect up to 6 visits to a salon every year. Each session should cost from $40 to $65 depending on the dog and services needed.
7 – Are there any other expenses to expect?
In the United States, a dog license usually costs between $10 and $20. The cost could be slightly higher if the dog is not spayed or neutered. Having the dog licensed is mandatory almost everywhere.
A dog microchip costs $25 to $50 on average in the US and is generally implanted during a medical appointment. It is placed under the skin usually between the shoulder blades. Dogs adopted from a shelter or bought from a breeder sometimes already have a microchip.
According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association’s latest State of the Industry Report, the average annual price is $566 for accident and illness coverage plans or $190 for accident only plans.
Dog walkers usually charge $15 to $25 for 30 minutes group walks and $20 to $50 for 1-hour long ones. Prices vary mainly depending on location. Private walks are more expensive.
A dog owner should budget $25 to $85 per day for dog boarding services. Prices vary depending on location, time of the year, and the level of service among other things.
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What is the next step? Check our New Dog Owner Guide. It’s a 5 minutes read packed with useful information for future and new dog owners.
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Or learn more about the cost of owning a dog. This article is THE reference when it comes to budgeting for your pet.
To help you out, this guide contains all the primary expenses that are necessary to ensure your future dog’s well-being. Make sure to take these considerations seriously before adopting or purchasing a Miniature American Shepherd, as they are imperative to your dog leading a healthy, happy, and comfortable life in your home. Moreover, the dog should not be a financial burden on you or your family, so make sure to carefully read through each section to better understand the expenses that come with raising a Miniature American Shepherd. Figures provided in this article are for informational purposes only. A dog owner should always find the actual costs applicable to his own situation before making any decision.
References and Resources
- Leslie Brooks, DVM – Licensed Veterinarian
- Alexa Diaz, Ph. D. – Animal Behaviorist
- Corryne Smith – Dog Groomer
- Tamaria Reddick – Dog Walker, Pet Sitter
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
- The American Kennel Club
- North American Pet Health Insurance Association
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers
This article is original content from PetBudget.