There’s nothing quite like the joy of coming home to a wagging tail and a happy bark.

As a dog lover myself, I completely understand the appeal. Dogs bring companionship, laughter and a reason to get outside for a daily walk. But as adorable as those puppy eyes are, adopting a dog comes with real financial responsibilities—ones that are very easy to underestimate.

Whether you’re thinking about adopting from a shelter or bringing home a new puppy, it’s important to consider the long-term costs before making the leap. Especially if you’re already working hard to pay off debt or build your retirement savings, even a "free" dog can turn out to be surprisingly expensive.

The upfront costs

Adopting a dog from a local shelter in Canada typically costs between $300 and $600. This usually includes vaccinations, spaying or neutering and a basic health check. If you’re getting a dog from a breeder, expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to over $3,000, depending on the breed.

Then there’s the initial gear—a crate ($75–$150), bed........

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