In 2021, an impressive 67% of Filipino households were found to host dogs, marking the highest rate of dog ownership in Asia(1). This statistic reflects not just a preference but a deep familial bond with the man’s best friend, underscored by the complexities of managing single or multiple dogs within limited urban spaces.
Filipinos show remarkable dedication, with nearly 30% spending over 500 php monthly on their pets(2), underlining our commitment to providing a caring atmosphere for our furry friends. However, concerns remain, as reports indicate insufficient care for some city-dwelling dogs in cages or who do not receive adequate walks. This reminds us that responsible dog ownership is both a privilege and a duty.
Knowing the cost of a dog isn’t just about money; it’s also about understanding how much we value them and what owning one means. This knowledge comes from caring, respect, and practical thinking. It shows us that being a responsible dog owner is about balancing love, dedication, and what we can realistically afford.
From A to Z: An Overview of Dog Breed Prices in the Philippines
Choosing a pet in the Philippines can be quite an adventure with a diverse range of dog breeds, each boasting its unique price tag. As a country filled with dog lovers and home to a wide variety of popular dog breeds, I’ve compiled a table that details the average prices of these breeds for your convenience.
(The information is arranged alphabetically for easy navigation. What’s more, clicking on the price range of a breed will lead you to a comprehensive guide, providing not only the detailed cost but also valuable buying tips for that specific breed.)
| Breed | Price Range |
| Alabai Dog | ₱100,000 to ₱200,000 |
| Alaskan Malamute | ₱60,000 to ₱150,000 |
| Beagle | ₱12,000 to ₱16,000 |
| Belgian Malinois | ₱8,000 to ₱16,000 |
| Bichon Frise | ₱20,000 to ₱50,000 |
| Border Collie | ₱13,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Chihuahua | ₱10,000 to ₱20,000 |
| Chow Chow | ₱20,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Corgi | ₱50,000 to ₱150,000 |
| Dachshund | ₱6,000 to ₱15,000 |
| German Shepherd | ₱12,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Golden Retriever | ₱15,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Great Dane | ₱15,000 to ₱40,000 |
| Japanese Spitz | ₱15,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Labrador | ₱8,000 to ₱20,000 |
| Maltese | ₱15,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Pekingese | ₱20,000 to ₱40,000 |
| Pomeranian | ₱20,000 to ₱75,000 |
| Poodle | ₱10,000 to ₱35,000 |
| Pug | ₱18,000 to ₱45,000 |
| Rottweiler | ₱15,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Saint Bernard | ₱15,000 to ₱40,000 |
| Samoyed | ₱50,000 to ₱90,000 |
| Shiba Inu | ₱50,000 to ₱100,000 |
| Shih Tzu | ₱8,000 to ₱30,000 |
| Siberian Husky | ₱18,000 to ₱50,000 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | ₱20,000 to ₱30,000 |
Alabai Dog
Price Range = ₱100,000 to ₱200,000
The Alabai, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, is a majestic breed from Central Asia. It is known for its imposing stature, robust strength, and gentle demeanor, making it an intriguing paradox of power and kindness.
- Guardian Spirit
- Gentle Giant
- Intelligence and Trainability
- Low Maintenance
- Adaptability
Alaskan Malamute
Price Range = ₱60,000 to ₱150,000
With their wolf-like appearance and friendly demeanor, they stand as a testament to the beautiful paradox of power and kindness. Their dense, fluffy coats and expressive eyes evoke the harsh Arctic landscapes, yet their personality exudes warmth and affection, creating a captivating contrast.
- Climate Resilience
- Low Maintenance Requirements
- Intelligence and Trainability
- Protective Nature
- Gentle Giants
Beagle
Price Range = ₱12,000 to ₱16,000
With their expressive eyes, droopy ears, and compact size, they make an irresistible package of cuteness. Their lively demeanor and a profound sense of loyalty set them apart, creating a perfect blend of fun and fidelity.
- Perfect Size
- Adaptable Nature
- Friendly Disposition
- Highly Trainable
- Low Maintenance Requirements
Belgian Malinois
Price Range = ₱8,000 to ₱16,000
With their sleek coat, piercing eyes, and muscular build, they are a picture of elegance and strength. Their high energy levels and unwavering loyalty make them an exciting and dependable companion.
- Adaptable to Climate
- High Trainability
- Protective Nature
- Active Lifestyle
- Loyal Companions
Bichon Frise
Price Range = ₱20,000 to ₱50,000
With their plush white coat, expressive eyes, and petite stature, they are like a little cloud of joy that lights up every room they enter. Their cheerful demeanor and love for companionship make them an irresistible part of many Filipino homes.
- Ideal Size
- Hypoallergenic Coat
- Friendly Nature
- Trainability
- Cheerful Companion
Border Collie
Price Range = ₱13,000 to ₱30,000
With their sleek coats, piercing eyes, and agile bodies, they embody both beauty and physical prowess. Their high energy levels and a deep sense of loyalty make them fascinating and dependable companions.
- Intelligence
- Active Lifestyle
- Adaptability
- Protective Nature
- Loyal Companions
Chihuahua
Price Range = ₱10,000 to ₱20,000
The Chihuahua is a breed of pint-sized charisma and grace. Their compact size, expressive eyes, and feisty personalities offer a unique blend of charm and character that belies their diminutive stature.
- Outgoing Nature
- Loyalty
- Protectiveness
- Adaptability
- Community
Chow Chow
Price Range = ₱20,000 to ₱30,000
The Chow Chow is known for its majestic lion-like mane and aloof demeanor. With their teddy bear appearance, distinctive blue-black tongue, and regal gait, these dogs exude an air of noble sophistication that is hard to resist.
- Distinctive Appearance
- Loyal Companion
- Quiet Nature
- Protectiveness
- Adaptability to Climate
Corgi
Price Range = ₱50,000 to ₱150,000
The Corgi, specifically the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is an endearing breed from Wales. Known for their robust physique, short legs, and irresistibly foxy faces, these dogs are lively herders with a friendly disposition.
- Compact and Athletic
- Affectionate
- Intelligent and Trainable
- Adaptable
- Long Life
Dachshund
Price Range = ₱6,000 to ₱15,000
The Dachshund, affectionately known as the “wiener dog,” hails from Germany with a unique, recognizable silhouette. With their long bodies, short legs, and spirited personalities, these dogs are endearing companions, offering an exciting blend of tenacity, intelligence, and charm.
- Distinctive Appearance
- Vigilant Watchdogs
- Brave and Adventurous
- Intelligent but Independent
German Shepherd
Price Range = ₱12,000 to ₱30,000
The German Shepherd, a breed renowned for its intelligence, strength, and versatility, is a favorite among Filipino pet lovers. With their noble heads, muscular bodies, and alert expressions, these dogs exude an air of confidence and capability that’s hard to resist.
- Intelligence and Trainability
- Loyalty and Protectiveness
- Active Lifestyle
- Adaptability
- Long Life
Golden Retriever
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱30,000
The Golden Retriever is an iconic breed of dog known for its friendly and tolerant attitude. With their beautiful golden coats, expressive eyes, and endearing personalities, these dogs are the epitome of joy and companionship.
- Friendliness
- Intelligence and Trainability
- Active Lifestyle and Playfulness
- Patience with Children
- Long Life
Great Dane
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱40,000
The Great Dane, also known as the “Apollo of Dogs,” is a breed that commands attention with its impressive size and regal bearing. Despite their imposing stature, these gentle giants are known for their sweet, affectionate nature and remarkable patience.
- Gentleness and Affection
- Child-Friendliness
- Low Exercise Requirement
- Guard Dog Potential
- Adaptability
Japanese Spitz
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱30,000
The Japanese Spitz, a small dog with a big personality, is a breed that captivates hearts with its fluffy white coat and spirited character. With their fox-like faces and bright, intelligent eyes, these dogs are a delightful bundle of joy and energy.
- Compact Size
- Friendliness and Affection
- Intelligence and Trainability
- Robust Health
- Low-Maintenance Grooming
Labrador
Price Range = ₱8,000 to ₱20,000
The Labrador Retriever, widely recognized for its friendly demeanor and robust physique, radiates warmth and loyalty. With its short, easy-care coat and keen intelligence, this medium-to-large dog breed is cherished for its adaptability and playful spirit.
- Sturdy Build
- Friendly Demeanor
- Keen Intelligence
- Easy-Care Coat
- Energetic Nature
Maltese
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱30,000
The Maltese dog, a petite breed adorned with a silky white coat, is a delightful bundle of joy and affection. Renowned for their gentle nature and lively spirit, these dogs are the epitome of grace and charm in a small package.
- Compact Size
- Silky Coat
- Affectionate Nature
- Playfulness
- Intelligence
Pekingese
Price Range = ₱20,000 to ₱40,000
The Pekingese, a small toy dog breed originating in China, is a captivating blend of regality and companionship. With their distinctive appearance, confident demeanor, and long, luscious coats, these dogs embody charm and comfort.
- Distinctive Appearance
- Confident Demeanor
- Loyal Companionship
- Long Coat
- Low Energy
Pomeranian
Price Range = ₱20,000 to ₱75,000
The Pomeranian is a small breed with abundant charm and energy. With their plush coat, lively personality, and affectionate nature, these dogs are like little balls of sunshine that instantly brighten any home.
- Plush Coat
- Lively Personality
- Affectionate Nature
- Small Size
- Watchful Nature
Poodle
Price Range = ₱10,000 to ₱35,000
The Poodle, with its signature curly coat and intelligent gaze, is a breed that combines elegance, intelligence, and playfulness. Renowned for their trainability and affectionate nature, these dogs are not just pets but also companions that bring joy and liveliness to their homes.
- Signature Curly Coat
- Intelligent Gaze
- Trainability
- Affectionate Nature
- Playful Disposition
Pug
Price Range = ₱18,000 to ₱45,000
The Pug is a small breed with a heart-melting wrinkled face and expressive eyes. Known for their charming personality, strong companionship, and playful nature, these dogs are like little jesters that bring laughter and happiness to any home they inhabit.
- Wrinkled Face
- Expressive Eyes
- Charming Personality
- Strong Companionship
- Playful Nature
Rottweiler
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱30,000
The Rottweiler, a robust breed with a powerful build and intelligent gaze, symbolizes strength and loyalty. Known for their protective instinct, high trainability, and affectionate nature, these dogs are dedicated companions that bring a sense of security and warmth to any home they inhabit.
- Powerful Build
- Intelligence
- Protective Instinct
- High Trainability
- Affectionate Nature
Saint Bernard
Price Range = ₱15,000 to ₱40,000
The Saint Bernard, a gentle giant with a friendly demeanor and an imposing stature, is a breed that exudes warmth and loyalty. Known for their calm disposition, playful nature, and protective instinct, these dogs are not just pets but companions that bring a sense of security and tranquility to their homes.
- Friendly Demeanor
- Imposing Stature
- Calm Disposition
- Playful Nature
- Protective Instinct
Samoyed
Price Range = ₱50,000 to ₱90,000
The Samoyed, an elegant breed with a stunning white coat and a radiant smile, embodies joy and liveliness. Known for their sociable nature, high adaptability, and playful spirit, these dogs are not just pets but companions who bring a sense of happiness and vitality to their homes.
- Stunning White Coat
- Radiant Smile
- Sociable Nature
- High Adaptability
- Playful Spirit
Shiba Inu
Price Range = ₱50,000 to ₱100,000
The Shiba Inu is a compact breed with a fiery spirit and a fox-like appearance. It captures the essence of independence and agility. Known for their alertness, high intelligence, and strong loyalty, these dogs are not just pets but companions who bring a sense of adventure and devotion to their homes.
- Fiery Spirit
- Fox-like Appearance
- Alertness
- High Intelligence
- Strong Loyalty
Shih Tzu
Price Range = ₱8,000 to ₱30,000
The Shih Tzu is a compact breed with a royal bearing and an affectionate temperament that epitomizes companionship and charm. Known for their friendly demeanor, adaptable nature, and luxurious coats, these dogs are not just pets but companions that bring a sense of warmth and elegance to their homes.
- Affectionate Temperament
- Friendly Demeanor
- Adaptable Nature
- Luxurious Coat
Siberian Husky
Price Range = ₱18,000 to ₱50,000
The Siberian Husky is a robust breed with a wolf-like appearance and an adventurous spirit. It encapsulates strength and endurance. Known for their striking blue or multi-colored eyes, high energy levels, and friendly nature, these dogs are not just pets but companions who bring a sense of adventure and vibrancy to their homes.
- Wolf-like Appearance
- Striking Eyes
- High Energy Levels
- Friendly Nature
- Adventurous Spirit
Yorkshire Terrier
Price Range = ₱20,000 to ₱30,000
The Yorkshire Terrier, a petite breed with a glamorous coat and a tenacious spirit, is a breed that embodies both elegance and vivacity. Known for their silky fur, portable size, and lively personality, these dogs are not just pets but companions that bring a sense of style and dynamism to their homes.
- Glamorous Coat
- Portable Size
- Lively Personality
- Tenacious Spirit
- Loyal Companionship
Cost of Owning a Dog
Owning a dog in the Philippines entails a variety of expenses, with the total yearly cost ranging from ₱29,300 to ₱78,500. These costs encompass food, veterinary care, grooming, and other miscellaneous expenses necessary for your dog’s well-being and happiness.
| Expenses | Yearly Costs |
| Food | ₱2,400 to ₱24,000 |
| Veterinary Care | ₱10,000 |
| Grooming | ₱6,000 to ₱24,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | ₱10,900 to ₱20,500 |
| TOTAL | ₱29,300 to ₱78,500 |
a. Food = ₱2,400 to ₱24,000 Yearly
Navigating the cost of feeding a dog in the Philippines, we break down monthly and yearly expenses for small, medium, and large breeds, assuming a standard price of ₱200 per kilo for dog food.
Small Dog
- Monthly: 1 to 2 kilos of food, costing ₱200 to ₱400.
- Yearly: This comes to ₱2,400 to ₱4,800.
Medium Dog
- Monthly: 4 to 5 kilos of food, costing ₱800 to ₱1,000.
- Yearly: This comes to ₱9,600 to ₱12,000.
Large Dog
- Monthly: 7 to 10 kilos of food, costing ₱1,400 to ₱2,000.
- Yearly: This comes to ₱16,800 to ₱24,000.
b. Veterinary Care = ₱10,000 Yearly
Becoming a pet parent is a commitment to safeguarding your pup’s health through regular vaccinations and veterinary care. These measures are vital for warding off diseases and ensuring your dog enjoys a long, healthy life.
- 6-in-1 Vaccine: This comprehensive vaccine covers distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis. It is priced at approximately ₱1,000.
- Leptospirosis Vaccine: Designed to combat leptospirosis, a bacterial disease affecting animals and humans, this vaccine costs around ₱500.
- Bordetella Vaccine (Kennel Cough): This vaccine, which costs about ₱1,500, provides protection against the highly infectious respiratory disease kennel cough.
- Rabies Vaccine: A vital vaccine that safeguards dogs from the lethal rabies disease, which can also be transmitted to humans. The cost is roughly ₱600.
- Lyme Disease Vaccine: Protects dogs from Lyme disease, a condition spread through tick bites. The cost varies by veterinary clinic in the Philippines, but it’s generally around ₱1,000.
- Wormguard: This is a treatment rather than a vaccine, used to combat various types of worms. Each tablet is estimated to cost ₱150.
- Veterinarian Visit: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring your dog’s health. The average cost per visit is ₱1,500.
- As a precautionary measure, pet owners should set aside approximately ₱10,000 per year to cover potential health expenses for their pets. This will ensure they’re financially prepared for regular treatments, unexpected illnesses, or emergencies.
c. Grooming = ₱6,000 to ₱24,000 Yearly
- Small Dogs: With grooming costs starting as low as ₱500 and mobile salons charging between ₱400 to ₱650, the yearly expense for small dogs can range from ₱6,000 to ₱7,800, assuming monthly grooming.
- Medium-sized Dogs: These dogs might require a higher grooming budget, with essential services costing around ₱1,450. This could amount to an annual expense of approximately ₱17,400, with monthly grooming sessions.
- Large Dogs or Breeds with Thick Coats: Full grooming packages for these dogs can cost up to ₱2,000 per session. If grooming is done monthly, the yearly expense can rise to ₱24,000.
- Overall: Grooming, a significant part of a dog’s healthcare budget, can range from ₱6,000 to ₱24,000 annually, depending on the size and breed of your dog.
d. Miscellaneous Expenses = ₱10,900 to ₱20,500 Yearly
Setting aside a budget for your dog’s miscellaneous expenses is like preparing a surprise gift box for your furry friend. It’s a collection of essentials and treats that contribute to their overall well-being. Let’s unbox this gift and see what’s inside:
- Treats: A bag of dog treats can cost around ₱200. Assuming you go through one bag per month, that’s an annual expense of ₱2,400.
- Toys: The price of dog toys can range from ₱100 to ₱1,000. If you replace toys every three months, the yearly cost could range from ₱400 to ₱4,000.
- Leash and Collar: A good quality leash and collar set can be around ₱1,500. These usually last for a year or more.
- Bed: Depending on size and quality, dog beds vary greatly in price. A decent bed can cost around ₱2,000 and should last at least a year.
- Hygiene Supplies: This includes items like shampoo, toothpaste, and poop bags. Let’s budget around PHP 300 per month, totaling ₱3,600 per year.
- Crate: Depending on the size and material, a crate can range from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000. Assuming it lasts more than a year, the yearly cost can be considered the same.
- Other Expenses: This could include dog clothes, grooming tools, bowls, etc. Let’s set aside a yearly budget of ₱2,000 for these.
Adding all these up, the annual cost for these miscellaneous items can range from ₱10,900 to ₱20,500.
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