Pug Characteristics
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Adult weight: 15 – 20 lbs.
Adult height: 10 – 13 in.
Origin – China
Thinking of bringing a charming Pug into your life? These playful and loving companions are popular for a reason! But before you welcome a Pug puppy (or adult dog) into your home, it's important to consider the pug price. This guide will explore the costs associated with both buying a Pug puppy from a breeder and adopting a Pug, including the ongoing expenses of caring for this amazing breed.
Pug Lifespan: A Long Life of Love
While not directly related to price, many potential Pug owners wonder about their lifespan. The good news is that Pugs are a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-15 years. With proper care and attention, your Pug companion can bring you joy for over a decade!
Purchasing a Pug
The average price for a Pug puppy falls around $1,000. However, this can vary significantly depending on factors like the breeder's reputation, pedigree, location, and coat color. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:
Purchasing a Pug: $800 - $2,000
Factors Affecting Price: Breeder reputation, pedigree, location, coat color
Adoption Costs
Adopting a Pug is a fantastic way to give a loving home to a dog in need and save on upfront costs. Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $500, depending on the shelter or rescue organization. These fees cover the cost of caring for the dog, including spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and veterinary checkups.
Monthly Costs
Caring for a Pug involves regular expenses beyond the initial purchase or adoption fee. Here's a breakdown of the monthly costs to consider:
Dog Food: $20 - $30 (depending on quality and quantity)
Professional Grooming: $45 - $70 (per session, every 6-8 weeks)
Veterinary Care: $65 - $170 (per visit, 3-4 times a year)
One-Time Costs
In addition to monthly expenses, there are some one-time costs associated with Pug ownership:
Initial Supplies: $400 - $500 (food/water bowls, collar and leash, bed, dog crate, etc.)
Microchipping: $50 - $70
Vaccinations: $250 - $300 (depending on location and services)
Expert Insights From Spot
According to Spot’s internal data, the claims most often submitted for Pugs are preventative care claims for heartworm and flea medications, rabies and Bordetella vaccinations, and special diets, foods, or supplements. Spot has received over 650 claims from pet parents of Pugs for heartworm and flea medications, over 850 claims for Bordetella and rabies vaccinations, and over 200 claims for special diets, foods, or supplements. If you do decide to add a Pug puppy to your family, we hope that this information will help give you an understanding of the kinds of veterinary services the breed may need during their life.
Living with a Pug: A Few Things to Consider
Pugs are undeniably adorable, but they require dedicated companionship. Can a Pug be left alone? While manageable for short periods, Pugs don't do well left alone for extended durations. If you must leave your Pug unattended, it should never be for longer than four hours, and they should have access to dog toys they can safely play with on their own.
How Old is a 14-Year-Old Pug in Human Years?
Pugs age differently than humans, and a 14-year-old Pug is roughly equivalent to a 72-year-old human! Senior Pugs may require adjustments to their care routine, but their love and companionship can last a lifetime.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer various coverages from microchip implantation to surgeries and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight maintenance are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot dog insurance plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options here. Get in touch with us to know more!
Key Takeaways
Pugs are intelligent, playful, and make wonderful companions. Whether you choose to buy a Pug puppy from a breeder or adopt a Pug, be sure to factor in the pug price and ongoing costs of care before welcoming one of these amazing dogs into your life. With proper planning and budgeting, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your Pug friend.
