The cost of bringing a Boerboel into your life can be significant, but it's essential to consider the expenses involved to ensure you're prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning one of these magnificent dogs.
A Boerboel puppy can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on factors such as bloodlines, breeder reputation, and location.
You'll also need to factor in the cost of spaying or neutering, which can range from $50 to $500, depending on the age and size of your Boerboel.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your Boerboel's health, and annual vaccinations can cost between $50 to $100.
Annual expenses for a Boerboel can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on factors such as food, veterinary care, and supplies.
Boerboels are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and allergies, which can lead to costly medical bills if left untreated.
Initial Expenses
Spaying or neutering your Boerboel can cost between $400 to $600. This is a one-time expense that's essential for your dog's health and well-being.
Medical exams and vaccinations are also crucial in the first year, with 2 to 3 visits expected, costing around $366 plus $99 for a fecal exam.
Antiparasitic treatments, including deworming, will add up to $180 if not covered by the breeder. This is a necessary expense to keep your dog healthy.
You'll also need to budget for accessories, which can cost between $200 to $300. This includes a crate, leash, harness, toys, a bed, a bowl, and recurring products like poop bags.
Canine education, such as sending your Boerboel to a "puppy kindergarten", can cost between $250 to $400. This is a great investment in your dog's socialization and behavior.
One Time Costs
One Time Costs can add up quickly, especially if you're bringing home a new Boerboel puppy. You'll need to purchase food bowls, beds, collars, and other necessities.
These items may seem like small expenses, but they can quickly add up to a significant financial commitment. Depending on your current situation, you may already have some of these items on hand.
Puppy mills must be avoided, and adopting from a reputable rescue group or breeder can help ensure you're getting a healthy puppy. For a Boerboel, you'll need products specifically designed for their needs.
Even if you're adopting a puppy for free, the one-time costs will still be a consideration. Make sure to factor these expenses into your budget before bringing home your new furry friend.
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Setup
Setting up your home for a new Boerboel can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, it's easier than you think.
You'll need a leash and ID badge, collar, and brush, which will cost you around $10 to $20 for a good nail clipper.
A food dish and proper water are also essentials, and make sure it's the right size for your Boerboel's mouth to prevent them from smacking the rim or reaching for the last piece of food.
A Boerboel's setup and supplies will cost between $150 and $600, but you can save money by buying second-hand items on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji.
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A crate, for example, can be a great purchase second-hand, and you'll also need to consider the cost of shampoo and toys, which are likely to be necessary.
Your dog's upkeep costs are mostly under your hands, and by taking care of its health, you can save money in the long run by preventing health issues like gingivitis.
Adopting from a shelter can also be a cost-effective option, unless you have a specific passion for the Boerboel breed, in which case you may find a more expensive companion.
Ongoing Expenses
Owning a Boerboel comes with a range of ongoing expenses that you'll need to factor into your budget. Food costs can vary significantly, with estimates ranging from $450 to $2,300 per year, depending on the quality and type of food you choose. A good rule of thumb is to budget at least $75 a month for food.
Veterinary care is another significant expense, with annual costs ranging from $99 to $529. Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and dental care can add up quickly. It's essential to stay on top of your dog's health to avoid costly problems down the line.
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Here are some estimated monthly expenses for a Boerboel:
- Food: $75
- Veterinary care: $100-$200
- Insurance: $100
- Grooming: $60 (optional)
- Boarding: $30 (optional)
- Dog-walking: $20 (optional)
These costs can add up to a total of $425-$525 per month. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can minimize these expenses and keep your Boerboel happy and healthy.
First Year Expenses
The first year with a Boerboel puppy can be a costly time. Spaying or neutering will likely cost between $400 to $600.
You'll also need to factor in medical exams and vaccinations, which can cost around $366 plus $99 for a fecal exam. This translates to at least two to three visits to the vet in the first year.
Antiparasitic treatments, including deworming, will add an extra $180 to your expenses. These treatments are essential to keep your puppy healthy.
Unless you get a starter kit from your breeder, you'll need to buy a crate, leash, harness, toys, a bed, a bowl, and recurring products like poop bags, which can cost between $200 to $300.
Consider enrolling your puppy in a "puppy kindergarten" to help with socialization and education, which can cost between $250 to $400. This investment will pay off in the long run.
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Monthly Costs
Welcoming a Boerboel into your life is a big decision, and one of the most important things to consider is the monthly costs involved.
You can expect to pay around $268 per month for the entire life of your Boerboel, which is approximately 14 years. This is based on an initial estimate of $45,000 over the dog's lifetime.
The cost of food for a Boerboel can be substantial, with a large bag of dog food costing around $35. However, since Boerboels require more food due to their large size, you may need to buy a new bag every two weeks, which can add up to at least $75 per month.
Monthly expenses for a Boerboel can range from $95 to $250, depending on various factors such as the need for a dog walker and veterinary visits. If you plan to be away from home for long periods, hiring a dog walker regularly can cost between $60 and $100 per week.
Toys are a year-round expense for dogs, and Boerboels are no exception. You can expect to pay between $15 and $30 per month for durable toys that can withstand their rough play. However, this cost may decrease as your dog ages and becomes less playful.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian expenses can add up quickly, especially for larger breeds like the Boerboel. You'll need to factor in the cost of flea prevention and any medications your dog may need.
Bloat, elbow or hip dysplasia, eyelid problems, and heart disease are all conditions that can affect larger dogs, so it's essential to be prepared for potential veterinary bills.
Regular veterinary visits are crucial for your dog's health. You can expect to pay between $10 to $15 for a visit to a veterinarian.
Puppies require more preventive care than older dogs, which means they're costlier to care for. You may need to visit the vet three times for your puppy, with each visit including vaccines, parasite prevention, and a physical examination.
Veterinary care fees will eat up a large chunk of your dog's monthly expenses, especially if your dog has underlying illnesses.
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Health Care Expenses
Health care is a significant concern for Boerboel owners, especially given their large size and potential health issues. The Boerboel is more likely to suffer from bloat, elbow or hip dysplasia, eyelid problems, and heart disease.
You'll want to prepare for these potential health problems and consider the costs associated with them. According to the article, a vet visit can cost between $10 to $15, and flea prevention and medications will also add to your expenses.
As your Boerboel ages, veterinary care costs will increase, and it's essential to factor this into your monthly budget. In fact, the article suggests that you should expect to spend around $268 per month on your Boerboel's care over its 14-year lifespan.
Here's a breakdown of some potential health-related expenses to consider:
Pet insurance can help mitigate these costs, but it's essential to choose a plan that covers the right conditions and is tailored to your Boerboel's needs. The article suggests that you can expect to pay around $100 per month for pet insurance, depending on your location and your dog's age.
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Boerboel Ownership
Owning a Boerboel can be a costly endeavor, but there are ways to reduce expenses. A good nail clipper costs between $10 and $20, and doing the grooming yourself can save you a lot of money in the long run.
To save even more, consider adopting a Boerboel from a shelter. The cost of adoption can be as little as nothing or as much as a few hundred dollars, depending on the organization. Adopting a dog may cost as little as $50-$500.
Monthly expenses for a Boerboel can range from $95-$250, with a larger maintenance expense if you require a dog walker and take your puppy to the vet more often. A dog walker can cost $60-$100 per week, depending on the frequency and duration of their services.
How to Save Money Owning
You can save money by doing the grooming yourself, like trimming your dog's nails with a good nail clipper that costs between $10 and $20.
Taking care of your dog's health is crucial, and cleaning ears, trimming nails, brushing teeth, and cleaning around your dog's eyes regularly can prevent costly vet bills.
Buying second-hand accessories, such as a crate, can be a cost-effective option, and you can find them on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji.
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Adopting from a shelter can also save you money, and the dog will still bring you joy.
Regularly feeding a large dog like a Boerboel can be expensive, but it's essential to consider the cost of food when deciding to bring one home.
To save money on dog grooming costs, consider brushing your dog daily to avoid matting and keep an eye on their skin's condition.
You can also save money by keeping an eye out for deals and coupons at online and brick-and-mortar stores, which can help you purchase food, toys, snacks, cleaning supplies, pet grooming products, and other items for less.
The monthly cost of a Boerboel can range from $95 to $250, depending on your lifestyle and the dog's needs.
If you need a dog walker, it can add to your monthly expenses, but it's not unreasonable to pay $60 to $100 per week for their services.
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Rescue and Adoption
Welcoming a Boerboel into your life can be a wonderful experience, especially if you're adopting from a rescue group. Adopting a dog may cost as little as nothing or as much as a few hundred dollars, depending on where you go.
The price of a Boerboel from a rescue group might go into the hundreds of dollars, depending on the organization. This can be a great way to provide a loving home for a dog in need while also getting a loyal companion.
Adopting a Boerboel at a shelter may cost you a lot less, but you’re less likely to find one at your local shelter. You may have better luck if you let the shelter know you’re interested in a mixed breed as well.
If rescuing is more your thing, you can save a few hundred dollars there, too. The cost of adopting a Boerboel is around $50-$500.
It is quite unusual to come across one of these canines for free, so proceed with caution if you do come across one. Boerboels need just a little amount of physical activity and dog sports, making them a great fit for many dog owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Boerboels so expensive?
Boerboels are a large and rare breed, making them expensive to raise and breed due to high costs associated with quality care and health considerations. Their unique characteristics and needs also contribute to their premium price.
Sources
- Boerboel Price Canada - Full Costs Infos [2024] (lebernard.ca)
- Boerboel | Dog Breed Facts and Information - Wag! (wagwalking.com)
- D & K Boerboels (dandkboerboels.com)
- The Boerboel Price and Lifetime Costs: Can you Afford One? (dogtemperament.com)
- How Much Does A Boerboel Cost? (dogproductpicker.com)
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