The Dogo Argentino is a breed that's often misunderstood, but one thing's for sure - it's a significant investment. The initial cost of a Dogo Argentino puppy can range from $800 to $1,200.
Purchasing from a reputable breeder can add an extra $500 to $1,000 to the overall cost. This is because these breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, which is reflected in the price.
However, the cost doesn't stop at the initial purchase price. Owning a Dogo Argentino comes with ongoing expenses, including food, vet bills, and training.
Cost Considerations
The cost of owning a Dogo Argentino can be a significant investment, but it's essential to consider all the expenses involved. Expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,500 for a puppy from a reputable breeder.
The first year is the most expensive, with costs adding up to around $3,000 due to the need for vaccinations, preventative care, and one-time items like beds. This includes multiple vet visits, each costing between $60 to $250, and spaying or neutering, which can cost between $150 to $450.
After the first year, annual costs will be around $1,700, covering food, healthcare, and other routine expenses. However, if your dog develops a serious medical problem, these costs can skyrocket.
The price of a puppy can vary depending on factors like the breeder's experience, the dog's pedigree, and health care received. Expect to pay more for a puppy with a prestigious bloodline or one that has undergone health screenings like the BAER screening.
Coat color can also impact the price, but since most kennel clubs recognize only white-coated Dogo Argentinos, this shouldn't be a significant factor. However, some breeders may offer discounted prices for puppies with markings, so it's essential to weigh the pros and cons.
Availability of the breed in your local area can also affect the price, with fewer breeders in your area likely to result in higher prices.
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Purchasing a Dogo Argentino
If you're considering purchasing a Dogo Argentino, you may want to look into working with a reputable breeder. Breeders often spend more money on their dogs and puppies, which leads to higher puppy prices, but these dogs are often healthier and better socialized.
They'll typically take their puppies to the vet at least once before allowing them to be adopted, and perform health testing on the puppies before adoption. This provides a clean bill of health and can even include health guarantees from some breeders.
Vaccinations and preventative care are often started by the breeder, reducing your overall vet costs. A qualified breeder will also perform the appropriate health testing on their adult dogs before breeding them, preventing the breeding of dogs with underlying health conditions.
The breeder will provide a better living space and feed their dogs higher quality food, affecting the health and behavior of the puppies. Puppies experience a lot of development before they are adopted, so what they are fed in the early weeks matters, and some diseases are directly affected by a puppy’s diet.
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Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of a Dogo Argentino can vary significantly depending on several factors.
The pedigree of the dog is a major consideration, with puppies from champion bloodlines often costing more.
Availability in the local area also plays a role, with fewer dog breeders meaning higher prices.
A reputable breeder with experience can charge more for their puppies, as they've invested time and money into raising healthy dogs.
Puppies that have received health screenings and vaccinations may also cost more, as these services add to the breeder's expenses.
In some cases, puppies may even be microchipped before adoption, which can increase the price.
Ultimately, it's essential to budget for the higher end of the range, especially considering the potential for expensive health problems.
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Vet Expenses
Vet Expenses can add up quickly, especially for a Dogo Argentino's first year, with costs ranging from $60 to $250 per visit for multiple vet visits.
You'll need to budget for these visits, which can total up to $1,500 or more for the first year. This is on top of the initial $3,000 for the first year, making it a significant upfront cost.
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Spaying or neutering your Dogo Argentino can cost between $150 to $450, which is another expense to consider. This is a one-time cost, but it's essential for preventing certain health issues.
If your Dogo Argentino develops a serious medical problem, your annual vet expenses can skyrocket, making it crucial to have an emergency fund in place. This will help you cover surprise bills and ensure your dog receives the necessary care.
Factors Influencing Dog Price
Factors influencing the price of a Dogo Argentino can be quite complex, but essentially, it all comes down to the dog's pedigree. A prestigious bloodline can have a huge impact, with breeders paying more for puppies with champion lineage.
The experience of the breeder is another significant factor, with more experienced breeders charging higher prices. You're essentially paying for the extra expertise, just like you would for any other service.
The health care a puppy has received also affects the price, with breeders passing on the costs of vaccinations and health screenings. Some puppies have even been microchipped before adoption, adding to their price tag.
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Availability in the local area can also impact the price, with fewer dog breeders in an area leading to higher prices. This is particularly relevant for the Dogo Argentino, as it's considered an uncommon breed.
Coat color can also influence the price, although it's worth noting that most kennel clubs only recognize white-coated Dogo Argentinos. Any markings on the coat can actually lower the price, but buyers should consider the potential consequences before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you own a Dogo Argentino in the US?
Yes, it is legal to own a Dogo Argentino in the United States. However, their ownership is often associated with specific purposes such as guard work or dog fighting.
Sources
- Dogo Argentino Club of America (dogousa.org)
- costing (eyespecialistsforanimals.com)
- Dogo Argentino - Price, Temperament, Life span (dogbreedslist.info)
- Dogo Argentino Dog Breed Price & Care (happypet.care)
- A Complete Price Guide for the Dogo Argentino (puppytoob.com)
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