Understanding the Cost of Italian Greyhound puppies is a necessary first step before committing to bringing one home. Responsible breeders invest in health clearances to ensure their dogs are free of genetic and hereditary conditions.
However, the cost of caring for your dog extends beyond the initial purchase price. Ongoing expenses, including high-quality food, routine veterinary care, and training, will add up quickly.
Purchase Price
Many are curious about how much are Italian Greyhound puppies. Italian Greyhound puppies tend to be priced higher than other breeds because of the increased time, attention, and resources that go into their early development. Responsible breeders also invest in thorough health clearances, ensuring their pups are genetically sound and free from hereditary diseases.
A new puppy will need three rounds of puppy vaccines and microchipping, adding to initial expenses. These costs will decrease as your pet matures and receives regular preventative vet care.
Grooming costs will also add to your annual expenses. A professional groomer typically charges $30-$40 for each session. Since Italian Greyhounds are prone to gum disease, it is recommended that you have your teeth professionally cleaned six times per year (this will be part of your yearly expenses).
Vet Fees
Puppies need three rounds of puppy vaccines in the first year, which adds to initial veterinary costs. L
Veterinary expenses will remain fairly high throughout an Italian greyhound’s life. Routine visits will include vaccinations, preventive medications, and dental care. Additionally, this breed is prone to developing cataracts later in life. Cataract surgery can cost $2000-$4000.
If you decide to purchase an Italian Greyhound from a breeder, there will also be registration fees and other documentation costs associated with this process. In addition, pet parents should set aside money for grooming and other miscellaneous expenses. Grooming costs include brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Training is also a must for this breed, and it can cost between $150-$800 depending on the level of instruction. Licensed dog trainers typically provide private lessons for potty training, crate training, and positive leadership, while group obedience classes are also available.
Food
A healthy Italian Greyhound requires a high-quality diet that can be purchased or prepared at home with your veterinarian’s supervision. These dogs tend to gain weight easily, so monitor their food intake and make necessary adjustments.
These sweet-natured dogs can spend much time basking in sunspots or snuggling into pillows and blankets, but they are also athletic and curious. If they aren’t being entertained with toys or given mental challenges, they’ll find their physical outlets through running and leaping around the yard, house, or apartment.
Italian Greyhounds are prone to medical issues requiring additional veterinary treatment, including patellar luxation (their kneecaps can become dislodged) and Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome (a hip condition). Setting aside money in an emergency fund or buying pet insurance is a smart way to prepare for these expenses. It will help ensure your dog gets the necessary medical care without putting unnecessary financial stress on you or your family.
Training
Italian Greyhounds are brilliant dogs, but they can be a challenge to housetrain. Those who want to take it up a notch can be trained in dog sports such as agility and lure coursing.
IGs love to run and play outside, so they need a fenced-in yard to burn off energy. They also have a strong prey drive, so keeping them safely contained in your backyard or a safe, secure dog park is essential.
Ongoing costs associated with Italian Greyhounds include high-quality food, routine veterinary care, grooming supplies, and training sessions. To help ensure you can afford these expenses, it’s a good idea to start budgeting early and setting aside money in pet savings accounts. This can help reduce your overall cost of ownership and improve your puppy’s quality of life.
Insurance
Many breeders will ensure their puppies receive their first vaccinations before leaving their kennel. This is an excellent way to minimize the risk of your new pup contracting a deadly illness, but these expenses are not included in the purchase price.
You must take your dog to the vet for spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and routine checkups throughout your dog’s lifetime. You must also spend money on flea/tick/lice prevention and heartworm medications.
Pet owners should also set aside funds for emergencies that may arise. Your dog could ingest something toxic or be hit by a car, and these incidents typically require immediate attention. You can hedge these costs by purchasing pet insurance. You should choose a policy covering autoimmune diseases and hereditary and pre-existing conditions.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Whether purchasing an Italian Greyhound from a breeder or adopting one, you must pay registration and documentation fees. These costs help cover registering your dog with kennel clubs and breed registries and providing essential documents confirming your new pet’s pedigree and ownership.
You’ll need to budget for routine veterinary care for your puppy throughout their lifetime.
Additionally, Italian Greyhounds are prone to a couple of health issues that can require additional medical treatment. One such issue is patellar luxation, which usually requires surgery to correct. You’ll also need to budget for pet-related emergencies, such as if your puppy swallows something toxic or gets hit by a car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of Italian Greyhound puppies is influenced by various factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and geographical location. Potential owners should carefully consider their budget and be prepared for the financial commitment required to care for these elegant and affectionate dogs. While it may be tempting to seek out cheaper options, it is essential to prioritize reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their puppies.
