Pekingese dogs, with their distinctive lion-like appearance and regal demeanor, have been cherished companions for centuries. Their history is deeply rooted in ancient China, and today, they continue to captivate hearts worldwide. If you’re contemplating welcoming a Pekingese into your home, it’s crucial to understand the financial aspects of their upkeep. In this article, we delve into the monthly expenses you can expect when caring for a Pekingese in 2023.
1. Food
Pekingese aren’t large dogs, but they do have specific dietary needs to maintain their health and luxurious coats.
High-Quality Dry Food – A quality bag of dry food designed for small breeds will cost between $20 and $40 for a month’s supply, depending on the brand and formula.
Wet Food (Optional) – Some owners prefer to mix in or occasionally offer wet food. This can add another $20 to $30 to your monthly expenses.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Food: $20-$70
2. Treats
Treats play a multifaceted role – they’re rewards, training aids, and sometimes, just a way to pamper your furry friend.
Training Treats – A pack suitable for a month of training or reward will range from $5 to $10.
Dental Chews – To maintain dental hygiene and reduce tartar buildup, dental chews are a must. These can add $10 to $15 per month.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Treats: $15-$25
3. Veterinarian
Routine healthcare is paramount to ensure your Pekingese lives a long, healthy life.
Regular Check-ups – An annual visit, when averaged out monthly, will cost around $10-$15.
Vaccinations – Essential yearly vaccinations, spread across 12 months, will add about $10 per month.
Unexpected Health Concerns – Pekingese can be prone to certain health issues like breathing difficulties due to their short snouts, and eye problems. Keeping aside a buffer of $20 a month can help with unforeseen vet bills.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Veterinarian: $40-$45
4. Toys
Despite their royal appearance, Pekingese are playful and enjoy a good toy.
Chew Toys – Suitable toys that cater to their small size can cost between $5 to $15 each, and might need replacement every few months.
Interactive Toys – Toys that stimulate their brains, such as puzzle toys, will range from $10 to $20.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Toys: $10-$20
5. Accessories
Beyond the basics, there are essentials required for the care, grooming, and comfort of your Pekingese.
Collar and Leash – A sturdy leash and collar, spread over a year, will average about $2-$3 per month.
Bedding – A comfy bed suitable for their size, averaged out over a year, may amount to $3-$4 per month.
Grooming Supplies – The Pekingese’s coat requires regular attention. Brushes, shampoos, and other grooming tools can add up to around $50 annually or approximately $4 monthly.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Accessories: $10-$12
6. Grooming
Pekingese have a thick double coat that requires consistent grooming.
Professional Grooming – Many owners prefer to take their Pekingese for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Depending on your location, this can range from $40 to $80 per session, averaging around $20-$30 monthly.
Estimated Monthly Cost for Professional Grooming: $20-$30
Conclusion
The Pekingese, with its royal lineage and captivating charm, is undeniably a rewarding companion to have. Considering all the mentioned expenses, your monthly budget for a Pekingese in 2023 can be estimated between $115-$202. This value may fluctuate based on individual needs, lifestyle, and unexpected expenses, but preparing with this budget will ensure your Pekingese enjoys a comfortable, joyful life.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Cost of Owning A Pekingese
1. How much does a Pekingese puppy typically cost?
Pekingese puppies can vary significantly in price, largely based on factors like lineage, breeder reputation, and geographical location. Typically, they range from $500 to $5,000 or even more for show-quality dogs. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable breeder, which might come at a higher initial cost but can prevent future expenses related to health or behavioral issues.
2. Do Pekingese eat a lot, increasing food costs?
Pekingese are small dogs with moderate energy levels. They don’t consume large quantities of food. Monthly food costs, primarily based on the quality and brand chosen, can range from $20 to $70. It’s always recommended to feed them high-quality food to maintain optimal health.
3. How often do Pekingese require professional grooming?
The Pekingese has a dense double coat that needs regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Many owners choose professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Considering this, budgeting for professional grooming is advisable, with costs averaging around $20-$30 monthly.
4. Are there any prevalent health issues in Pekingese that can lead to high veterinary bills?
Pekingese can be predisposed to certain health conditions like brachycephalic syndrome, due to their flat faces, and potential eye issues. Regular veterinary check-ups can help in early detection, but it’s prudent to set aside funds or consider pet insurance for unexpected health-related expenses.
5. Do Pekingese require specific toys or accessories due to their size?
Given their small stature, it’s essential to choose toys and accessories tailored to their size. This ensures safety and enjoyment. Monthly, you might spend between $10-$20 on toys, but this can vary based on individual preferences and the dog’s play habits.
6. What are the monthly grooming supply costs for a Pekingese?
For at-home grooming of a Pekingese, you’ll need brushes, shampoos, and perhaps even conditioners specific to their coat type. These supplies, when spread out monthly, can average around $10-$15, though initial investments might be slightly higher.
7. Do the Pekingese need special training or socialization?
Pekingese, with their regal demeanor, can sometimes be stubborn. While not mandatory, basic obedience classes can help, costing around $50-$150 for a series. Socialization from a young age is also crucial to ensure they’re well-rounded and amiable.
8. Are there added costs for keeping a Pekingese in colder climates?
Pekingese have a thick coat, making them reasonably well-suited for colder climates. However, they might require additional care, like paw balms to prevent cracked pads in snowy conditions. These added costs are minimal, adding perhaps a few dollars monthly.
9. Is pet insurance recommended for a Pekingese?
Given the potential health concerns associated with the breed, pet insurance can be a wise investment for Pekingese owners. Monthly premiums can vary, typically ranging from $20-$40. It provides peace of mind, ensuring you can cover unexpected health costs.
10. Beyond the basics, are there any luxury or optional items popular among Pekingese owners?
Many Pekingese owners indulge in luxury bedding, designer collars, or even doggy clothing. While these are optional and vary widely in price, if you’re inclined towards pampering your pup in this manner, it’s good to factor in these potential expenses in your budget.
The post Monthly Cost to Own a Pekingese appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.