The prospect of raising a Rhodesian Ridgeback is an exciting one! As you bring a new dog into your home, however, there are a few things you should know about, particularly when it comes to planning your finances. The dog should never be a financial burden on you or your family, so we have developed a cost calculator to help you get a personalized estimate as to how much it should cost to raise a Rhodesian Ridgeback!
A Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is likely to cost between $600-$2,000 with the average price being $1,250. First-year expenses are around $4,475 and will be about $1,775/year (or $148/month) after that. Through the dog’s lifetime, the average cost of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is $22,225.
This covers all the essentials, including supplies, training costs, medical expenses, food and treats, grooming expenses, licenses, and a microchip. Additionally, optional costs include medical expenses such as a spay/neuter procedure and additional services, such as dog walking and dog boarding, as well as pet insurance. With all these included (assuming you hire a dog walker five times a week for 50 weeks and use a boarding service for one week every year), we estimate the total cost of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback to fall between $58,110 to $120,120, with an average cost of $86,270 for 11 years.
In this article, prices in the higher range apply for people willing to buy high-end products and services and/or living in an expensive area, while the lower range will probably be more relevant if using cheaper products and services and/or living in a less expensive area.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the expenses, see what applies to you and get experts’ opinions on Rhodesian Ridgebacks. At the bottom of the article, we have also added a cost calculator that will allow you to assess your personal situation and get a much more accurate estimate as to how much it should cost you to buy and raise yours!
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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
How much is a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy?
After reviewing 185 ads from reputable websites like the American Kennel Club and PuppyFind, we found that the average price for a Rhodesian Ridgeback under 6 months is $1,250 per puppy. While puppies can be found for as low as $600, they can also end up being as high as $2,000, with almost 80% of prices found falling within that range. The most expensive puppies were even priced at $2,500.
Puppy Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Rhodesian Ridgeback | $600 – $2,000 | $1,250 |
If you are interested in a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy, we strongly recommend doing some research and finding a reputable shelter or breeder, as this can have a huge impact on the health and well-being of your dog! Adoption can be a much more affordable alternative, as rehoming fees usually amount to anywhere between $50-$500 depending on location.
WONDERING HOW AND WHERE TO FIND A RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK PUPPY TO BUY OR A DOG TO ADOPT? Our Guide will help you find a dog near you. We share the 25 best places to find your perfect pet.
Puppies Price Range | Ads Reviewed |
$150 – $500 | 11 |
$501 – $950 | 33 |
$951 – $1,400 | 72 |
$1,401 – $1,850 | 38 |
$1,851 – $2,300 | 26 |
$2,301 – $2,500 | 5 |
Total | 185 |
This data is 100% original and has been collected by PetBudget’s team.
“As a veterinarian, I think it is ideal that Rhodesian Ridgeback breeders have their breeding dogs evaluated or tested for the following conditions prior to breeding and throughout their breeding years: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye examination by an ophthalmologist (yearly until 9 years of age), autoimmune thyroiditis (blood 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 an extra-large dog
Ideally, you will want to have a certain amount of supplies on hand to welcome your Rhodesian Ridgeback into your home. For such large dogs, you will be looking at a $495 initial investment on average for the first year. This is based on the analysis of 250 products on famous marketplaces such as Walmart, PetSmart, and Amazon.
Supplies Prices | Range | Average Cost |
Food & Water Bowls | $10 – $40 | $20 |
Dog Collars (x2) | $10 – $40 | $20 |
Leash | $10 – $30 | $15 |
ID Tag with Phone Number | $5 – $20 | $10 |
Dog Bed (48″ or 60″) | $30 – $110 | $60 |
Dog Crate (48″ or 60″) | $50 – $165 | $90 |
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 | $50 – $155 | $90 |
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 Rhodesian Ridgeback grows, the price of supplies does ease up. For each subsequent year, your expenses are likely to range between $105 and $410, putting the average cost at $225. This considers all the items that need to be repurchased, such as toys, bed, shampoo, sanitary bags, tooth brushing equipment and the like.
Total Supplies Cost | Range | Average Cost |
First Year | $245 – $925 | $495 |
Subsequent Years | $105 – $410 | $225 |
The quality of products and the store choice will have a notable influence on prices. Additional equipment or items may be necessary in some cases, such as clothing, a play pen, fences, anti-chew sprays, muzzles, and harnesses, but are not included in our necessary expenses. Take that into consideration when planning costs. To help save, consider looking at second-hand stores and websites.
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.
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Should you train your Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Our expert animal behaviorist and dog trainer recommends that a Rhodesian Ridgeback gets ample professional training. Alexa Diaz, Ph.D., suggests private lessons for positive leadership as well as for potty and crate training and group lessons for basic obedience and socialization purposes.
Training should run you anywhere between $900-$1,200 for 7 to 9 private lessons plus $150-$200 for five 1-hour group lessons.
Training Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Rhodesian Ridgeback | $1,050 – $1,400 | $1,225 |
Dog training books are affordable and will also help you come to terms with the basics of raising and training a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog.
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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.
“Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large energetic dogs. They bond to one person more than an entire family and are not recommended for families with small children. They are smart but need a lot of training for positive leadership.”
Alexa Diaz, Ph. D. – Animal Behaviorist
The medical costs for a Rhodesian Ridgeback
Experts like licensed veterinarian Leslie Brooks, DVM, agree that dog owners should account for medical expenses in their pet budget. On average, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner can expect first-year medical expenses to be around $630. Additionally, spay/neuter and possibly, a gastropexy procedure might be considered. These should cost $50-$450 and $200-$400, respectively.
For each subsequent year, expect to spend about $700 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 | $425 – $830 | $630 |
Spay/Neuter (optional) | $50 – $450 | $250 |
Gastropexy (optional) | $200 – $400 | $300 |
Adult Year Vet Cost | $475 – $925 | $700 |
Vet cost for a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy during the first year
Dr Brooks recommends a minimum of three visits to the vet over the course of the 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 $75-$120 and $85-$125 for a puppy.
Moreover, your Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback begins to grow older, a neutering or spaying procedure may be considered, with the price being $150-$450 depending on the clinics in your locality (some charge as low as $50-$100 for the procedure). Generally, spays (female) are slightly more expensive.
Dr Brooks would also recommend a gastropexy procedure for large, deep-chested dogs such as Rhodesian Ridgebacks. It usually costs $200-$400 and should be performed at the time of their spay or neuter. Gastropexy reduces the risks of Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) later in life. GDV is life-threatening and must be corrected with surgery.
Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Dr Brooks also recommends continuing heartworm and flea prevention medicine, which usually fall in the $125-$200/year and $225-$300/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 Rhodesian Ridgeback potential health issues
The table below sums up some conditions that may affect a Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 |
Hypothyroidism | Medium | $350 – $800 |
Hip Dysplasia | Medium | $500 – $13,000 |
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV) | Medium | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Degenerative Myelopathy | Medium | $500 – $3,000 |
Dermoid Sinus | High | $1,500 – $3,500 |
Hypothyroidism: the cost estimate is for blood tests and lifelong medications.
This price range for hip dysplasia is very wide because of the variety of treatment options an owner may pursue. Conservative treatment including pain management and physical therapy is usually the cheapest alternative ($500-$2,500 per year), while total hip replacement costs about $5,000-$6,500 per affected hip.
Degenerative myelopathy: genetic testing, medications, and/or a dog wheelchair would probably be $500 to $1,500. If a complete range of diagnostic testing is done to completely rule out any other condition that can mimic degenerative myelopathy, the cost (not necessarily treatment) can be up to $2,000-$3,000.
Dermoid Sinus: the cost estimate is for diagnostics and treatment if surgery is needed.
“Since Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large breed dogs, it is important to keep some money aside for unexpected health emergencies that may come at inopportune times, such as stomach bloat or foreign body surgery to remove something they may have eaten that got stuck in their intestines.”
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.
The cost to feed a Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large dogs and grow to be quite big, 80 lb. on average (usually 70 to 85 lb.). As a result, Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies tend to consume close to 260 lb. of dry food for the first year. This puts food-related expenses in the $205-$395 range. Adult Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally eat up about 340 lb. of dry food a year, resulting in costs ranging from $160 to $540.
These figures are based on the prices of four popular dog food brands detailed below.
Yearly Food Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Puppy | $205 – $395 | $295 |
Adult Dog | $160 – $540 | $310 |
Treats to reward your dog can add another $125-$715 to yearly expenses, based on the price of more than 25 best-selling treats seen at Walmart, PetSmart and on Amazon. Naturally, expenses will depend on the quality of food or treats you buy, premium grade brands being considerably more expensive.
Treats Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Yearly Treats | $125 – $715 | $345 |
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.
Four dog food brands compared
A Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will eat close to 260 lb. of dry food during the first year.
Puppy Food Brands | Quantity per Bag | Number of Bags / Year | Unit Price | Total Price |
Purina – Puppy Chow | 36 lb. | 8 | $27.78 (Walmart) | $222.24 |
Purina One – Smart Blend Puppy | 16.5 lb. | 16 | $21.98 (Walmart) | $351.68 |
Pedigree – Puppy | 36 lb. | 8 | $25.83 (Walmart) | $206.64 |
Blue Buffalo – Puppy | 30 lb. | 9 | $44.08 (Amazon) | $396.72 |
A Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should expect to buy around 340 lb. of food every year for his/her adult dog.
Adult Food Brands | Quantity per Bag | Number of Bags / Year | Unit Price | Total Price |
Purina – Dog Chow | 50 lb. | 7 | $22.98 (Walmart) | $160.86 |
Purina One – Smart Blend | 40 lb. | 9 | $40.36 (Walmart) | $363.24 |
Pedigree – Adult | 50 lb. | 7 | $25.83 (Walmart) | $180.81 |
Blue Buffalo – Adult | 30 lb. | 12 | $44.98 (Amazon) | $539.76 |
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 Rhodesian Ridgeback. Also make sure to consult your vet on the type of food you should be giving to 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 |
Large Puppy | 35 lb. | 8 | $73.99 (PetSmart) | $591.92 |
Large Adult | 35 lb. | 10 | $68.99 (PetSmart) | $689.90 |
This illustrates the price difference between budget-friendly and premium dog food.
Grooming prices for Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Our certified groomer, Corryne Smith, suggests that a Rhodesian Ridgeback receives professional grooming around 6 times every year, with a session typically ranging from $40 to $60. The price will depend on the services requested as well as the dog (health, age, coat, behavior).
But she also states that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are easy to maintain and most owners will be able to groom their dog themselves at home and by doing that could drastically reduce their grooming expenses.
Yearly Grooming Cost | Range | Average Cost |
Rhodesian Ridgeback | $0 – $360 | $180 |
Most professional groomers offer a bath, shampoo, hair removal (if needed), brushing, styling as well as nails, tooth, eyes, and ears care.
DIY enthusiasts can find grooming equipment online for $75 on average. You will be able handle all your dog’s grooming needs from within the comfort of your own home, if you have the skill set and patience to do so!
Additional costs that comes with a Rhodesian Ridgeback
Additional Costs | Range | Average Cost |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Microchip | $25 – $50 | $40 |
Dog Walking (per day) | $15 – $25 | $20 |
Dog Boarding (per day) | $25 – $85 | $40 |
License
Licenses usually fall in the $10-$20 range in the USA, depending on your location. If your dog is not spayed or neutered, the cost is likely to be a little bit higher. We strongly recommend licensing your dog, as it can be illegal, depending on local regulations, to own an unlicensed dog. Moreover, it makes identification and locating in the case of emergencies much easier.
Microchip
Microchips create a unique identification for your dog, allowing them to be on medical and emergency databases. Microchips are required in many U.S states and will range from $25-$50.
Dog walking
If you cannot walk your dog during the day, Tamaria Reddick, a well-reputed dog walker and dog sitter with over 10 years of experience, recommends hiring a dog walker for a daily 30-minute walk. It is best that an energetic dog such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback gets regular exercise and outdoor time. On average, these are affordable. A 30-minute walk usually costs between $15 and $25 ($20 to $50 for 1 hour) depending on your location.
But you must be aware that those costs add up very quickly if you need a dog walker five days a week all year long. To find a dog walker in your area and validate the price, you can use apps like 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
In the case of extended travel plans, you can leave your Rhodesian Ridgeback in the care of a dog boarding service. Budget $25 to $85 a day, depending on location, services, and time of year. During particularly busy stretches of the year, such as the holidays, you will need to book dog boarding services in advance, as you are likely to get much better rates when doing so.
If you are on a tight budget, checking with any friends or family to see if they would be willing to host your dog is a good idea.
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 probably have to submit a formal request ahead of time. Moreover, the cost varies drastically, as it depends on several variables such as location, destination, mode of transport, etc.
Yearly and monthly cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback
How much is the first year with a puppy?
Typically, expenses for raising a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy average out at $4,475 for the first year, with the spectrum ranging from $2,685 to $6,695. Keep in mind that most expenses will happen soon after welcoming the dog.
First Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Puppy | $600 – $2,000 | $1,250 |
Supplies | $245 – $925 | $495 |
Training | $1,050 – $1,400 | $1,225 |
Medical | $425 – $830 | $630 |
Food & Treats | $330 – $1,110 | $640 |
Grooming | $0 – $360 | $180 |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Microchip | $25 – $50 | $40 |
First Year Total | $2,685 – $6,695 | $4,475 |
Some owners will also have to add optional costs to those figures.
Optional First Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Spay/Neuter | $50 – $450 | $250 |
Gastropexy | $200 – $400 | $300 |
Insurance | $350 – $780 | $565 |
Dog Walking (30 minutes per day) | $15 – $25 | $20 |
Dog Boarding (per day) | $25 – $85 | $40 |
With additional services, including spay or neuter procedure, pet insurance, dog walking (5 days a week for 42 weeks) and boarding services (assuming the dog is boarded for a week), expenses will be in the $6,610-$14,170 range through the course of the puppy’s first year.
Potential First Year Cost | Range | Average Cost |
With Spay/Neuter and Insurance | $3,285 – $8,325 | $5,590 |
With Spay/Neuter, Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $6,610 – $14,170 | $10,070 |
Yearly and monthly cost of an adult Rhodesian Ridgeback
The first year with a new dog is usually the most expensive. After that, expenses will go down to $875-$2,970 yearly (or $73-$248 monthly).
Adult Year Costs | Range | Average Cost |
Supplies | $105 – $410 | $225 |
Medical | $475 – $925 | $700 |
Food & Treats | $285 – $1,255 | $655 |
Grooming | $0 – $360 | $180 |
License | $10 – $20 | $15 |
Adult Year Total | $875 – $2,970 | $1,775 |
Estimated Monthly Cost | $73 – $248 | $148 |
With insurance, walking 5 days a week for 50 weeks and dog boarding for a week, the average cost every year rises to $7,620 (or $635/month).
Potential Adult Year Cost | Range | Average Cost |
With Insurance | $1,225 – $3,750 | $2,340 |
With Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $5,150 – $10,595 | $7,620 |
Total cost of raising a Rhodesian Ridgeback
A Rhodesian Ridgeback’s lifespan is 11 years on average (usually 10 to 12 years); therefore, the total cost of ownership is likely to fall within the $11,435-$36,395 range, with the average cost being $22,225.
Total Cost of Ownership (11 years) | Range | Average Cost |
Rhodesian Ridgeback | $11,435 – $36,395 | $22,225 |
With spay/neuter procedure, insurance, dog walking every day during the week and 1 week of dog boarding on average per year, the costs rise to ranging between $58,110 and $120,120, with the average being $86,270 through the course of the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s lifetime.
Potential Total Cost of Ownership (11 years) | Range | Average Cost |
With Spay/Neuter and Insurance | $15,535 – $45,825 | $28,990 |
With Spay/Neuter, Insurance, Dog Walking and Dog Boarding | $58,110 – $120,120 | $86,270 |
Thank you for reading us! Stay tuned for more information about pet costs, product reviews and saving tips.
PetBudget Rhodesian Ridgeback cost calculator
The cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback – A summary in 7 questions
1- How much is a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy?
On average a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will cost $1,250 in the USA. Most puppies can be found between $600 and $2,000. 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 $245 and $925 in supplies when welcoming an extra-large dog. Every year, the cost to renew some of them should be between $105 and $410. Prices vary depending on location, stores, brands, and products quality.
3 – Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need training and how much will it cost?
Having a Rhodesian Ridgeback professionally trained is usually recommended (both private and group training) and should cost around $1,050 to $1,400. For this breed, training should mainly focus on basic obedience, socialization, potty training, crate training, and positive leadership.
4 – What is the cost of preventive medical care for a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Preventive medical care should amount to around $425 to $830 for a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy during the first year and around $475 to $925 every adult year. This does not include spay or neuter and gastropexy procedures (usually $150 to $450 and $200 to $400 respectively).
5 – How much food does a Rhodesian Ridgeback eat and how much will it cost?
A Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will eat around 260 lb. and an adult close to 340 lb. of dry food yearly (it varies for each dog and food brand). Annual expenses should be between $205 and $595 for a puppy and $160 to $690 for an adult dog. Other types of food and treats would increase the costs.
6 – How often should a Rhodesian Ridgeback be professionally groomed and how much will it cost?
Grooming a Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 $60 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback, 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 owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback. 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.