6 Factors That Affect A Pugs Cost

Pugs are simply charming and clownish with a playful and charismatic personality. They are cute, compact, mischievous, and bred to be lap dogs.

pug cost
6 Factors That Affect a Pug Cost

If you are thinking about getting a Pug pup, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the Pug price. Here is what we have learned about Pug price and what affects their price. 

The price of a Pug puppy can vary greatly. Expect to pay between a price range of $500 to $1500 per Pug puppy. 

According to NextDayPets, you should expect to pay the following price for a Pug puppy from a reputable breeder:

  • Median Price: $1,125.00
  • Average Price: $800.00
  • Top Quality: $2,400.00 – $10,000.00

This data is sourced from the sale of 12246 Pug puppies across the United States on the NextDayPets website.

The reputable and renowned breeders tend to be on the upper end of the price spectrum. You may get a Pug puppy at a lower price from unethical backyard breeders but it’s not recommended.

Is owning a Pug expensive?

Yes, owning a Pug is a costly affair. Pugs are high in demand. The American Kennel Club ranks Pugs as the 28th most popular dog breed.

Pug is a brachycephalic breed with a very short, rounded skull a short muzzle, and a flat face. They are prone to a range of health problems. So, veterinary bills and other expenses can soon mount up.

Pugs have a small litter and often need a costly C-section to give birth. They often have complications during and after pregnancy.

Factors that impact the cost of a Pug

The price of Pug puppies can fluctuate widely depending on many factors. These factors include the breeders’ location, reputation, litter size, the pedigree of the puppy, age, color, and much more.

Let’s have a look at the various factors that affect a Pug puppy’s price.

Age

The cost of the Pug puppy will be influenced by the puppy’s age. 8-12 weeks old puppies will be the most expensive option. The older a dog gets, the more the pet insurance policy will cost.

Gender

Generally, there is no price difference between buying a male or a female Pug. However, the ongoing maintenance cost of female Pugs is usually higher than males.

Coat color

Coat colors play an essential role in deciding the prices. The rare colored Pug coats are expensive while common ones are less pricey. 

Brindle Pugs are usually considered 

more desirable puppies and hence are more expensive because of their rarity. The apricot, apricot fawn or silver shades also see a markup in prices.

Breeder reputation

The reputation of the dog breeder is yet another critical factor and matters a lot. A reputed breeder will breed a healthy dog with and good temperament. They adopt ethical breeding practices and not just breed for minting money.  

You may get a lower-priced Pug from unethical backyard breeders but it is never recommended.

Kennel Club registration

A breeder’s kennel club certification can also affect the price of a Pug puppy. Kennel club-registered breeders are more likely to put their puppies at higher prices. This is mainly because registering with a well-known kennel club is not a cheap and simple process.

The lineage of the puppy

Lineage is another factor that can affect the price of your Pug pup. High-lineage dogs are much more expensive. They are considered premium quality dogs who are champions and buyers would not mind paying extra for them.

What is included in the price also depends on country laws and the breeder himself. The price differs in different geographical locations. It depends mostly on the supply and demand in that particular region apart from the above-mentioned aspects.

Pug looking surprised at cost of pug

Tips for buying a Pug puppy 

Pug puppies are heartwarming, adorable, and hard to resist. Here are some useful tips to consider if you’re thinking of buying a pug.

  • You should always look for a healthy Pug puppy. Always consider checking the medical history for any underlying diseases.
  • Take adequate time to research and pick the best one according to your needs. 
  • You must visit the Pug kennel before bringing your dog to your home. In this way, you will get to know the kind of conditions Pug puppies have been exposed to.
  • Choose a puppy that is friendly and freely socializes with people. Dominating, puppies and the ones who don’t socialize are a red flag.
  • Verify all paperwork for the Pug puppy.
  • Ask the breeder to provide you with the vet records, including vaccination cards, for the Pug puppy.
  • Look for a pedigree and high lineage dog as you will get the most out of it.
  • Always look for an AKC-approved dog kennel to buy a pug puppy.

Annual cost of owning a Pug puppy 

Before buying a puppy it is important to understand the associated costs of owning a dog. The annual cost or “upkeep” is often overlooked when determining a Pug’s true ownership cost. Pugs have a very high-end lifestyle and need both maintenance efforts and money.

When calculating your overall budget and the annual cost of owning a Pug, make sure you account for the price of 

  • Pug food and treats
  • Vaccines, deworming, and flea control
  • Annual health examination at the vets
  • Spay/neuter fees 
  • Regular visits to the vet
  • Grooming and dental care
  • Training the Pug puppy
  • Pug supplies such as a collar, leash, crate, dog beds, bowls, bones, and toys
  • Dog walker and dog sitting

All of these items can add up quickly. So, make sure you estimate anywhere from $500 – $2000 or more for the first year of owning a Pug. 

Afterward, expect to spend about $500 – $1000 or more every year to meet the annual financial responsibilities of raising and growing your dog.

pug cost
Pug Dog

Conclusion 

Pugs are fun to be around and are worth each penny. They make great pets for families due to their playful and loving nature. Everything you invest in this charming bundle of joy is worth your effort and money.

Did you find this article useful? Feel free to share your thoughts. We would be happy to hear from you!

stuart and his dog

Family Dog Expert Author

Hi there! I’m Stuart, a devoted dog lover and family dog expert with over a decade of experience working with our furry companions. My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. When I’m not writing for SirDoggie, you’ll find me hiking, playing with my beautiful dog, or studying music.