How much does a Australian Shepherd cost per year?
Expect to spend around $2,060 per year on a Australian Shepherd — covering food, routine vet care, grooming, insurance, and supplies. Over a typical 13-year lifespan, that totals roughly $26,780 (about $172/month), not counting the purchase price of $600–1,800.
Yearly cost breakdown
Based on our standard Medium dog cost model (medium size class):
| Category | Annual estimate |
|---|---|
| Food | $540 |
| Routine vet | $350 |
| Grooming | $360 |
| Pet insurance | $600 |
| Toys, treats & supplies | $210 |
Breed-specific costs to know
Grooming
Heavy shedding; regular brushing.
Health
Hip dysplasia and eye issues in some lines; high exercise/training needs.
Purchase price
Expect $600–1,800 from a reputable breeder. Adoption is $50–$300 and often includes spay/neuter and vaccines — see our adoption vs breeder calculator.
Is a Australian Shepherd expensive to own?
Compared to the average dog, the Australian Shepherd sits in the Medium cost bracket. The biggest variables are health (see above) and grooming. Run your own numbers with our dog cost calculator — adjust the lifespan and acquisition cost to match your situation.
Estimates based on ASPCA cost data and breed-specific veterinary guidance. Your costs will vary by location.