Cheapest Dog Breeds
Dogs have varying prices, depending on the breeding difficulties and the popularity of the dog breed in relation to the number of available dogs. If you’re on a budget but want to get a dog in the most cost-effective way possible, we’re here to list the cheapest dog breeds.
Continue reading to the end to learn the most affordable dog breeds you can buy.
Top 10 Cheapest Dog Breeds
Here are ten of the cheapest dog breeds in terms of acquisition cost, meaning the price breeders or shelters ask. Our sources for gathering the list of the cheapest dog breeds include a variety of places, including platforms that list puppies for sale, like Dog Academy.
Chihuahua
Average Price: $500 – $1,200
The Chihuahua has long been one of the cheapest dog breeds to buy. It is also cheaper to own a Chihuahua than many other dog breeds. They are small dogs that have minimal feeding needs and don’t require professional grooming with their short coats. All a Chihuahua needs is a loving owner who can provide the attention these dogs need.
Beagle
Average Price: $600 – $1,300
Beagles are also among the most affordable dog breeds to acquire due to their high availability. It would be rare to have difficulties finding a beagle to adopt or buy, even in smaller cities. Although not as much as the Chihuahua, owning one of these dogs is also quite affordable.
Rat Terrier
Average Price: $600 – $1,300
The rat terrier is rarely an expensive dog, both in terms of the acquisition cost and the ongoing expenses. While the rat terrier is one of the cheapest dog breeds, those interested in this dog breed must be ready to welcome a highly energetic dog into their lives. Therefore, they pair only well with those leading an active life.
Jack Russell Terrier
Average Price: $700 – $1,400
This small, energetic, and hardy dog breed’s pricing isn’t as intense as their personality. Jack Russells are fairly affordable dogs, possibly due to these dogs being higher maintenance than many other dog breeds.
Shih Tzu
Average Price: $750 – $1,300
Without a doubt, the shih tzu is one of the most loving and loyal toy breeds. To get a companion like the shih tzu, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. Unless you want to get a show dog, the shih tzu’s initial purchasing cost, as well as the ongoing care, isn’t going to be anything significant financially.
Labrador Retriever
Average Price: $900 – $1,400
The Labrador retriever, or shortly known as the Lab, has been the most popular dog breed in the US for many decades. Perhaps one of the main contributors to this was the breed’s price. Labrador retrievers have always been affordable, thanks to the big litters averaging seven to ten puppies.
Border Collie
Average Price: $900 – $1,500
The border collie is surprisingly cheaper than many other dog breeds. However, this applies only to pet-quality border collies. If you’re after a puppy from a lineage with proven herding ability or an agility championship, the cost will be easily double or triple.
Golden Retriever
Average Price: $1,000 – $1,500
Golden retrievers, just like Labrador retrievers, are extremely popular dogs with a steady supply from breeders that keep the prices affordable. They are among the best family dogs that any household can get for a good price.
Fox Terrier
Average Price: $1,000 – $1,600
Whether the wire-haired or the smooth-haired fox terrier, these terrier-type dogs are an affordable option for those considering an energetic and lively companion. Although not as cheap as some of the other breeds we’ve listed, fox terriers are the perfect dog for those looking for an energetic and lively canine.
Mixed Breeds
Average Price: $100 – $500
Last but not least, mixed-breed dogs tend to be the cheapest of all. However, when we say mixed breed, we’re excluding designer dog breeds like the goldendoodle or cavachon. Your local animal shelter should be full of mixed-breed dogs looking for a forever home, so make sure to give visiting a try to see if you find a good match.
The Cheapest Dog Breeds: Conclusion
The above amounts refer to buying a puppy from a breeder. If the price is a concern for you and you want to get a dog in the most affordable way possible, go with adoption for the ultimate savings. Even if you adopt a purebred dog from a shelter or rescue, it will be the least costly, all while saving a life and giving back to the community.