Model review, 14 October 2026: the examples below now come directly from the current calculator. They replace older incomplete totals and unsupported national rankings. Underlying price inputs are illustrative starting assumptions, not measured current market ranges; internal agreement is not market validation.
Apartment suitability depends on the individual animal, care routine, property and building requirements. Small size alone does not establish a suitable match. Use these budget examples as one input alongside advice from the rescue, breeder and appropriate professionals.
Current calculator examples
AUD · VIC · breeder purchase · mid-range spending · insurance included · professional grooming allocation · basic training for dogs, indoor living for cats · no boarding, walking or daycare. Reserve: $0, separate from spending. These are model scenarios, not verified national prices or individual quotes.
Swipe the table sideways if needed. Monthly figures spread ongoing spending over 12 months; first-year setup is separate.
| Breed | Monthly ongoing | First year | Annual ongoing | Lifetime spending |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maltese Cross | $208 | $6,861 | $2,493 | $39,270 |
| Toy Poodle | $212 | $8,156 | $2,538 | $46,226 |
| Mixed Breed Dog | $219 | $4,821 | $2,628 | $36,357 |
| Whippet | $205 | $6,422 | $2,454 | $38,324 |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | $244 | $9,097 | $2,929 | $41,316 |
| Cavoodle | $245 | $9,310 | $2,942 | $47,556 |
| Shih Tzu | $225 | $8,321 | $2,703 | $43,460 |
| Chihuahua | $172 | $5,932 | $2,064 | $34,828 |
Lifetime spending uses each profile's rounded midpoint lifespan at constant prices, without inflation or age-related premium changes. Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded; no health-probability allowance is added. A reserve is money set aside, shown separately in the calculator.
Generated from the same inputs and engine as the calculator, so these examples update with the model. Inspect sources and assumptions or edit your own scenario.
Plan Care Around Your Actual Routine
Consider exercise, enrichment, settling, training, noise and time away. Add paid walking, daycare or boarding only where you expect to use it. The displayed examples select none of these services. A breed’s apartment flag is not permission for a particular property or a guarantee about behaviour.
Coat Care Still Needs a Plan
Several selected profiles allocate professional grooming. Confirm the service and interval for the individual coat and what home care is needed between visits. A small body does not imply a small grooming commitment. The Toy Poodle page includes one checked salon observation with its scope stated.
Check the Property Rules
Confirm the actual tenancy and building process before acquisition or alterations. The rental guide links scoped NSW and Victorian official guidance. This article does not establish every jurisdiction’s current approval process, permitted charges or strata rules.
Compare Complete Budgets
Inspect acquisition, setup and ongoing categories rather than the monthly headline alone. Confirm adoption inclusions and registration fee periods. Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded from spending; an optional reserve is separate money set aside. No health-risk ranking or insurance verdict is used to choose an apartment dog here.
Use the comparison tool, first-year checklist and hidden-cost guide, then enter local quotes.