Lhasa Apso Prices in 2024: Purchase Cost, Vet Bills, and More!

The Lhasa Apso is an ancient breed that remains as popular today as they were thousands of years ago. These dogs have origins in Tibet, and they were initially developed to provide royal families with watchdog service. Although the Lhasa Apso is tiny, they pack a mighty bark and they are wildly protective over their families. Today, these dogs are popular companion animals, and countless people across the world have fallen head over heels for them. If you’re among this crowd, you might be wondering how expensive it is to welcome a Lhasa Apso of your own into your home. Let’s explore how much Lhasa Apso puppies cost in 2024 and discuss other expenses you may incur during the first year after purchase.

How Much Does a Lhasa Apso Puppy Cost?

On average, owners can expect to pay somewhere between $1,000 and $2,000 for a Lhasa Apso puppy. However, where the final price falls within this range will be influenced by several factors such as your location and the pedigree of your dog. In addition, the reputation of the breeder plays an influential role in the pricing as well. While reputable breeders usually charge more for their services, unethical backyard breeders often advertise prices that seem too good to be true. What you don’t pay upfront you’ll likely pay in medical bills, as these puppies are often affected with lifelong genetic illness. A wonderful resource prospective owners can use to locate a reputable breeder is The American Lhasa Apso Club’s breeder locator.

Other Factors That Influence the Purchase Price of a Lhasa Apso

Your location, the pedigree of your Lhasa Apso, and the breeder’s reputation will be the primary influences on price. However, things like special fur coloration or texture can affect the price as well. For example, the grizzle coloration is very rare and highly sought after, which will inevitably drive prices up. Show-quality dogs will also be more expensive. Finally, if your Lhasa Apso receives any specialized training before being brought home, this can also impact the cost.

Cost of Vaccination and Other Medical Expenses for Lhasa Apsos

Like any other dog, it is important to immunize your Lhasa Apso against disease. While some breeders will provide their puppies with their first set of shots, some owners may have to pay out of pocket. Fortunately, this is very affordable, and many veterinarians charge roughly $100 for an initial set of vaccinations. After this, each set of boosters will cost about $40. During this appointment, you can ask your vet to give your puppy an initial health panel to screen them for underlying genetic diseases. This typically costs about $70, but the peace of mind it provides is invaluable. In addition, owners may choose to have their puppy microchipped during this time as well, which typically costs around $50.

Cost of Food and Supplies for Lhasa Apsos

Lhasa Apsos are a small dog breed. At maturity, these pups will only weigh between 12 and 20 pounds. At this size, petMD recommends that owners feed their dogs between 3/4 cup and 1 1/3 cups of food per day, which will cost owners between $20 and $50 per month. However, owners who choose to feed their Lhasa Apso a prescription or raw diet can expect to pay more. In some cases, food bills can rise to over $200 per month. In addition, it is recommended that owners put aside an additional $350 for supplies. First-time dog owners will need a grooming kit, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, a crate, a dog bed, and toys.

How Much Does It Cost to Insure a Lhasa Apso

While Lhasa Apsos are quite healthy dogs, it doesn’t hurt to purchase pet insurance as a safety net. Even the most robust dogs can become ill, and pet insurance will help offset the cost of medical bills during an emergency. Depending on the coverage you want, the price per month will fluctuate. However, a basic package of pet insurance is very affordable. Many owners can pay as little as $30 per month to insure their Lhasa Apso.

How Much Does It Cost to Train a Lhasa Apso

While some dogs are the picture of obedience, others are just bundles of energy. The Lhasa Apso falls somewhere in between these two categories. Even though some owners report that training their pups was a breeze, others have had to enlist the help of professionals to get the job done. Luckily, training classes for Lhasa Apsos are available throughout the country. Depending on the kind of training you want your dog to receive, prices can vary. However, owners will typically pay somewhere between $50 and $100 per session. Many professionals recommend attending classes for at least six months to solidify the dog’s understanding.

Final Thoughts

In essence, Lhasa Apsos are an energetic, fun-loving, quirky breed. The first year of owning a Lhasa Apso will be more expensive, and prospective owners should put away about $4,750 to cover all the above expenses. However, each year following will be more affordable at about $900. These dogs are completely devoted to their families, and what love you give them, you receive tenfold. However, it’s important to not rush into this decision and think carefully about it before taking the plunge. Purchasing a Lhasa Apso is a long-term commitment, and owners should be positive they can provide for them financially for their whole life.

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