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.
A useful budget comparison shows its assumptions. These selected dog scenarios illustrate differences in food, coat care, acquisition and services. They do not establish Australia’s cheapest or most expensive breed, and a lower total does not predict lower veterinary bills.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jack Russell Terrier | $177 | $5,497 | $2,129 | $35,303 |
| Toy Poodle | $212 | $8,156 | $2,538 | $46,226 |
| Maltese Cross | $208 | $6,861 | $2,493 | $39,270 |
| Australian Kelpie | $214 | $6,132 | $2,564 | $39,464 |
| Mixed Breed Dog | $219 | $4,821 | $2,628 | $36,357 |
| French Bulldog | $266 | $10,229 | $3,186 | $42,089 |
| Rottweiler | $299 | $8,452 | $3,584 | $40,708 |
| German Shepherd | $308 | $9,288 | $3,695 | $46,238 |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | $244 | $9,097 | $2,929 | $41,316 |
| Cavoodle | $245 | $9,310 | $2,942 | $47,556 |
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.
Compare Like With Like
Monthly figures smooth ongoing spending over twelve months; they do not include acquisition and setup spread over a pet’s life. First-year totals include those upfront categories. Compare both, then inspect lifespan assumptions before comparing lifetime figures.
Small food allocations do not eliminate training, grooming or care needs. A large dog’s equipment and services may require different quotes. For Poodles and curly-coated crosses, ask a groomer about the service, frequency and home care rather than treating the model interval as universal. See the Toy Poodle and Miniature Poodle examples.
A Low Entry Fee Is Not the Whole Budget
Confirm the animal’s acquisition fee and included procedures. Mixed ancestry or adoption does not guarantee fewer health problems or lower insurance. The calculator lets you change adoption inclusions and enter separately payable costs without charging included work twice.
Costs These Totals Do Not Predict
Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded. No condition weights are used to produce expected bills. An optional contingency reserve is shown separately from spending, beginning in year one. Compare actual insurance terms rather than assuming a breed’s treatment list establishes a payoff.
Edit the comparison settings and your provider quotes before relying on a result. The hidden-cost checklist covers travel, repairs and other gaps.