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Owning a Sheltie, or Shetland Sheepdog, can be a rewarding experience due to their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. However, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with bringing a Sheltie into your home and providing the necessary care throughout their life. This guide will help you understand the one-time cost of $800 to $2,000, and ongoing monthly expenses of $80 to $150 required to keep a Sheltie happy and healthy.
Bringing Home a New Sheltie: One-Time Costs
When you decide to bring a Sheltie into your family, there are several one-time costs to consider, such as adoption fees, purchasing from a breeder, and initial setup and supplies.
Free
It’s rare to find a Sheltie for free, but occasionally, you might come across someone looking to rehome their dog without any fees. In such cases, ensure that you inquire about the dog’s health, temperament, and previous living conditions before committing.
Adoption
- $200–$400
Adopting a Sheltie from a rescue organization or shelter typically ranges from $200 to $400. This cost often includes spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping, making it a cost-effective option.
Breeder
- $800–$1,500
Purchasing a Sheltie from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500, depending on factors such as pedigree, location, and demand. Make sure that you only purchase from a reputable breeder and be wary of “breeders” selling Sheltie puppies for shelter or rescue prices. Get a health certification from the breeder and make sure you visit the breeder in person before adopting, if possible. Most reputable breeders will be able to accommodate both.
Initial Setup & Supplies
- $15–$400+
In addition to the cost of the dog itself, you’ll also need to figure in the cost of initial setup and supplies. Here are some factors to consider, but some, such as spay/neuter, microchipping, etc., may be included with the price of the Sheltie depending on how you acquire them.
List of Sheltie Care Costs & Supplies
- ID Tag and Collar: $15
- Microchip: $45–$55
- Leash: $10-$20
- Carrier: $40 (for safe transportation)
- Spay/Neuter: $145
- X-Ray Cost: $100–$250
- Ultrasound Cost: $250–$500
- Teeth Cleaning: $150–$300
- Flea and Tick Prevention: $10–$20 per month
- Heartworm Prevention: $5–$15 per month
- Ear Cleaning Solution: $5–$15
- Crate: $40
- Dog Bed: $25–$100 (depending on quality and size)
- Food and Water Bowls: $10
- Puppy Pads (if house training): $20–$30
- Poop Bags: $5–$10
- Nail Clipper: $7
- Slicker Brush or Pin Brush: $8
- Comb (for grooming): $10
- Dog Shampoo and Conditioner: $10-$20
- Toys: $30 (including chew toys, puzzle toys, and interactive toys)
- Treats for Training: $5–$15
Please note that these costs are approximate and may vary based on factors such as location, specific services, and individual dog needs. Some items listed above are one-time costs, while others, like flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and treats, will be ongoing monthly expenses.
How Much Does a Sheltie Cost Per Month?
- $80–$150+
In addition to the initial costs, you’ll also have ongoing monthly expenses when caring for any pet. You’ll need to buy food, keep up with grooming and healthcare, and maintain a clean and safe environment.
Health Care
- $10–$100+
Regular health care expenses for Shelties include flea and tick prevention, heartworm medication, and routine check-ups. These costs can vary depending on the specific products and services you choose for your Sheltie’s care, as well as their individual health needs.
Food
- $30–$50 per month
Shelties require a balanced, high-quality diet to maintain their health. The cost of food will depend on the brand and quantity required based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Special dietary needs or preferences, such as grain-free or organic foods, can also affect the monthly cost.
Grooming
- $10–$40 per month
Shelties have a double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their fur looking healthy. Some owners choose to groom their Shelties at home, which can save on costs, while others prefer professional grooming services. The frequency of grooming sessions and the services provided will affect the overall monthly expense.
Medications & Vet Visits
- $10–$100+ per month
Routine vaccinations, vet visits, and any necessary medications contribute to the cost of maintaining your Sheltie’s health. These costs will likely not occur every month, but when your Sheltie does need them, the cost can vary depending on your dog’s age, health status, and any ongoing medical conditions that require treatment or management.
Pet Insurance
- $20–$40 per month
Pet insurance is not a necessity, but it can help cover unexpected veterinary expenses and provide peace of mind for Sheltie owners. Premiums depend on factors such as your dog’s age, breed, and overall health, as well as the coverage level and deductible you choose.
Environment Maintenance
- $15–$25 per month
Maintaining your Sheltie’s environment includes replacing worn-out toys, cleaning supplies for their living space, and purchasing waste bags for walks. These costs can fluctuate based on the quality and frequency of replacements.
Entertainment
- $10–$20 per month
Shelties enjoy playing with toys and participating in activities that challenge their minds and bodies. Budget for new toys, puzzle games, or interactive play sessions to keep your Sheltie mentally stimulated and engaged. This cost may vary depending on the types of toys you choose and how often you replace them.
Total Monthly Cost of Owning a Sheltie
- $80–$150+ per month
Owning a Sheltie can cost anywhere from $80 for basic necessities such as food, toys, and other supplies that need to be replaced as needed, to $150+ for things such as healthcare and vet visits. Vet visits may not be a recurring monthly cost, but it’s always good to budget for them just in case. Pet insurance can also help cover some of these costs, but you will have to pay a monthly premium which can vary depending on the provider and what the insurance covers.
Additional Costs to Consider
Participating in dog sports and activities can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your canine companion. However, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with each sport or activity before diving in. Here is an overview of the expenses related to various dog sports and activities:
Agility Training
Agility training involves teaching your dog to navigate through a series of obstacles like jumps, tunnels, and weave poles. Costs associated with agility include:
- Beginner’s class: $120–$200 for a 60–8-week course
- Advanced classes or workshops: $100–$300
- Competition entry fees: $15–$30 per run
- Home equipment setup (optional): $200–$1,000 depending on the quality and number of obstacles
Obedience Training
Obedience training focuses on teaching your dog basic commands and good manners. Costs for obedience training include:
- Group classes: $100–$200 for a 60–8-week course
- Private lessons: $50–$100 per session
- Competition entry fees (if participating in formal obedience trials): $20–$35 per entry
Herding Trials
Shelties are herding dogs by nature and need a job to do to keep them mentally and physically healthy. Even if you don’t have animals for them to herd at home, there are competitions and events in which dogs can practice their harding skills. Herding trials test dogs’ ability to control and move livestock, such as sheep or cattle. Costs associated with herding trials include:
- Herding instinct evaluation: $50–$100
- Training classes or clinics: $100–$300
- Livestock rental fees for practice (if needed): $10–$20 per session
- Competition entry fees: $30–$50 per run
- Travel expenses to competitions: Varies depending on distance and accommodations
Keep in mind that these costs are approximate and may vary based on factors such as location, specific services, and individual dog needs. Additionally, some sports may require specialized equipment or investment in your dog’s physical conditioning and overall health. Always consult with a professional trainer or instructor before starting any new sport or activity with your dog.
Other Additional Costs
Here is a list of additional costs associated with owning a Sheltie, along with their estimated prices:
- Pet Sitters or Boarding: $25–$50 per day
- Emergency Treatments: $500–$3,000 (depending on the severity of the condition)
- Dog Walking Services: $15–$25 per walk
- Dog Park Membership: $20–$75 per year
- Travel Expenses (pet-friendly hotels, airline fees): $50–$200 per trip
- Dog License Renewal: $10–$30 per year (varies by location)
Please note that these costs are approximate and may vary based on factors such as location, specific services, and individual dog needs.
Owning a Sheltie on a Budget
Owning a Sheltie doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and smart choices, you can reduce the overall cost of owning a Sheltie while still providing them with excellent care.
- Adopt from a rescue organization or shelter: Adoption fees are generally lower than purchasing from a breeder and often include initial vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.
- Purchase supplies in bulk: Buying items such as food, treats, and waste bags in bulk can save money over time. Look for bulk deals online or at warehouse stores.
- Learn to groom your dog at home: Invest in quality grooming tools and learn how to groom your Sheltie at home. This can save on professional grooming expenses.
- DIY toys and enrichment activities: Create homemade toys and puzzles using household items to save on store-bought toys. Many online resources and tutorials can help you get started.
- Attend group training classes: Group obedience or training classes are often more affordable than private lessons. Look for local classes offered by pet stores or community centers.
- Preventative health care: Invest in regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative medications to avoid costly health issues down the line.
- Network with other Sheltie owners: Join local Sheltie groups or online forums to share tips and resources, such as recommended veterinarians, groomers, or trainers that may offer discounts or lower prices.
Saving Money on Sheltie Care
- Shop sales and discounts: Look for sales and discounts on pet supplies both in-store and online. Subscribe to newsletters or mailing lists to stay informed about upcoming deals.
- Choose generic or store-brand products: Opt for store-brand or generic versions of pet supplies like waste bags, cleaning products, and some medications, which may be more affordable than name-brand options.
- Invest in durable, high-quality items: While they may have a higher upfront cost, investing in durable, high-quality pet supplies can save money in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements.
Conclusion
Owning a Sheltie requires an initial investment ranging from $800 to $2,000, with average monthly costs between $80 and $150. Don’t worry, though. Your sheltie will pay you back a thousand times over in both love and joy!
Featured Image Credit: Barcs Tamás, Unsplash
