Top 15 Cheapest Dog Breeds in India (Budget Friendly Pups)

Last Updated on December, 2024

Dogs are possibly humankind’s most marvelous gift, but no one can deny that they are very high maintenance.

However, that doesn’t have to stop you from getting your little bundle of joy because some dogs are more affordable than other expensive dog breeds in India.

If you are a dog lover in India and looking for a dog you can afford, you’re in luck.

This article will go over 15 of the cheapest dog breeds in India, covering not just their initial cost but also their long-term costs of feeding, grooming, etc.

So strap in and get ready to find your new bestie!

Quick Summary

The cheapest dog breeds in India are Indian Pariah, Beagle, Boxer, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Dalmatian, Doberman, German Shepherd, Indian Spitz, Labrador, Pomeranian, Pug, Rajapalayam, Rottweiler & Shih Tzu.

The Indian Pariah is the cheapest dog breed in India and has a long history.

Factors such as initial cost, long-term costs of feeding and grooming, and training expenses should be considered when choosing a dog breed.

15 Cheapest Dog Breeds in India

1. Indian Pariah

The Indian Pariah (also known as Desi dogs) is an Indian dog breed and is the cheapest dog in India.

There is a common misconception that the Indian Pariah is a stray dog, but that is not the case.

Not all stray dogs are Pariahs.

Indian Pariah dogs are part of an ancient dog breed called pye dogs, with ancestors dating back 4500 years.

You can easily train pariah dogs, and they are therefore used often as police or guard dogs.

Indian Pariah Dog breed

The Indian pariah dog price ranges between Rs. 2,500 and Rs.8,000 in India. But you can also adopt these dogs for free from NGOs and city dog shelters.

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This is the most cheapest dog in India. This budget-friendly dog breed has a short coat, so you don’t have to incur the cost of daily grooming. They also make the list of being some of the healthiest dogs, so you won’t be plagued by the cost of treating persistent illnesses.

According to many pariah dog owners, these Indian dogs are also not fussy about food, so they don’t need expensive dog food.


2. Beagle

Beagles are merry little chaps, and they are great companions for both kids and adults.

They adapt well to the Indian climate and are low maintenance because they don’t have long coats that require expensive visits to a groomer.

Additionally, after you’re done with the pup’s vaccinations, beagles generally only require an annual wellness check-up.

However, note that beagles were initially bred as scenthounds, and they can be pretty stubborn and require careful and patient training, which is a cost you need to factor in.

Beagle Dog breed

On average, training a beagle can cost around Rs.15,000 to Rs.20,000.

The price of beagles will generally start from Rs. 15,000 and go upto around Rs. 40,000, depending on their coloring, size, quality, and the breeder’s location.

Providing your adult beagle with high-quality dog food will cost you around Rs.1,800- Rs.3,000 per month.


3. Boxer

Boxers can adapt remarkably well to Indian weather, and they are one of the most popular dog breeds in India.

A Boxer puppy price can range between Rs.20,000 and Rs.50,000.

Their dog food will cost between Rs.5,500 and Rs.7,000 per month, and you can expect to spend around Rs.4,000 annually on visits to the vet.

Your boxer dog will have to be vaccinated and neutered. The latter may cost around Rs.4,000- Rs.12,000.

Boxer Dog breed

While boxer dogs can be trained at home by experienced and firm owners, it may be best to give them professional training as some can be aggressive and destructive. Training can cost you between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 7,000 monthly.


4. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with big hearts that are adorable, confident, loyal, and charming.

Because of their small size and low grooming requirements, they are ideal dogs if you live in an apartment.

A Chihuahua puppy can cost between Rs.15,000 and Rs.25,000.

You can expect the feeding cost of a Chihuahua to be around Rs.2,000-Rs.3,000 per month.

Chihuahua Dog breed

Chihuahuas don’t require a lot of heavy-duty grooming- so you can groom your dog at home for the low cost of Rs.500 per month. 

One professional grooming session can cost around Rs.2,000, so buying all the necessary grooming equipment and grooming your dog at home is cheap.

Vaccination costs in your pup’s first year can be between Rs.6,000 and Rs.8,000, and neutering or spaying your dog will cost you roughly between Rs.8,000 and Rs.15,000.

Also, expect an annual cost of Rs.500-Rs.1,500 for toys and a monthly fee of Rs.500 for treats.


5. Dachshund

These small and active dogs fall under the earth dog category and are the most demanded dog breed in India because they adapt very well to the Indian climate.

They are courageous dogs who you can keep easily if you live in the city in an apartment.

A Dachshund in India can cost between Rs.15,000 and Rs.20,000.

Taking a look at the more long-term costs, feeding a Dachshund can cost you between Rs.2,000 and Rs.3,000 per month.

Dachshund Dog breed

Like a Chihuahua, you can groom your Dachshund at home, costing you around Rs.500 per month.

First-year vet and vaccination visits cost around Rs.6,000, and spaying or neutering costs Rs.8,000-Rs.15,000.

Additionally, you may incur an annual cost of Rs.1,000 for toys and a monthly fee of Rs.500 for treats.


6. Dalmatian

Dalmatian dogs are a breed of intelligent dogs originally bred to play the role of guard dog to protect horses and coaches.

Known for its distinctive spotted coat (and, of course, the iconic Disney movie), this popular dog breed also adapts well to the Indian climate.

They are also a very healthy dog breed.The cost of dalmatian in India starts at Rs.20,000 and goes up to Rs.30,000.

Dalmatian Dog breed

The feeding cost of dalmatians can be between Rs.1,000 and Rs.4,000 per month, and the average dalmatian grooming cost can be anywhere between Rs.300 and Rs.10,000 (depending on how often the pet parents decide to groom their dalmatian).

One training session to train a dalmatian can cost around Rs.200 to Rs.500.

See the Dalmatian dog cost in the US.


7. Doberman

Dobermans are working dogs initially bred for personal protection but are now most commonly used in the police or the military.

Their use for these purposes has made Dobermans a very courageous dog breed.

Despite this, these sturdy dogs are great with children and can fit in well with your family.

They require moderate exercise every day, and they don’t get along well with extreme weather conditions.

Doberman Dog breed

However, they are still one of the most desired dog breeds because of their low grooming requirements and their place as one of India’s relatively cheapest dog breeds.

Doberman dogs can cost between Rs.15,000 and Rs.40,000.

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Their monthly feeding cost can be between Rs.3,000 and Rs.7,000 per month, depending on the quality of the food.

First-year vet costs can be a bit much, and regular check-ups that cost between Rs.1,000 and Rs.2,000 are necessary if you have a Doberman. Each vaccination shot can cost you up to Rs.1,000.

Check them out, if you want to know the different types and color coats of Doberman Pinschers.


8. German Shepherd

German Shepherds (also known as the Alsatian Wolf Dog) are classified as working dogs, and they are the second most popular dog breed in India after Beagles.

German Shepherds fall under the herding category, adapt well to Indian weather conditions, and are friendly and energetic dogs.

However, they are recommended for experienced pet owners because separation anxiety is common in German Shepherds, requiring a lot of exercise and attention.

German Shepherd Dog breed

Nevertheless, these athletic dogs are pretty budget-friendly, with a German Shepherd generally costing between Rs.18,000 and Rs.25,000.

The feeding cost of a german shepherd can range from Rs.3,000 to Rs.5,000 per month.

You should expect to spend around Rs.10,000-Rs.15,000 on visits to the vet and vaccinations in your first year.

You can groom your German Shepherd at home for the low cost of Rs.500 per month, and you’ll have to incur the same price to get treats for your dog.

Toys for your German Shepherd dog can cost between Rs.1,000 and Rs.1,500 annually.


9. Indian Spitz

The Indian Spitz is often confused with Pomeranians, even though these two dog breeds are entirely different.

Indian Spitzes have the same presence as the German Spitz and are cheerful, intelligent, playful dogs.

They also fare well in Indian weather and are a healthy dog breed.

Sadly, major kennel clubs don’t recognize the Indian Spitz as a dog breed, but the Kennel Club of India acknowledges them as a separate Indian breed.

Indian Spitz Dog breed

Indian Spitzes are among the cheapest dog breeds in India, right behind the Indian Pariah, and you can get this dog breed for Rs.4,000-Rs.8,000 with ease.

They have quite fluffy double coats that make frequent grooming a necessity. But you can avoid having to make constant visits to the pet salon by brushing their coat on a regular basis and by using anti-shedding shampoo.

Owning an Indian Spitz can cost you between Rs.2,000 and Rs.3,000 per month.

If you want to know more about it’s temperament, lifespan, and more, here’s a complete guide on Indian Spitz Dog Breed.


10. Labrador

Labradors are among the most popular dogs, and for a good reason. They are friendly, lovable, easy to train, and loyal.

You should be able to get a Labrador puppy for anywhere between Rs.6,000 to Rs.20,000.

Feeding a Labrador can mean a cost of between Rs.2,000 and Rs.4,000, depending on the quality of the food.

You can groom your dog yourself at home- it’s cheaper and you can also use the time to bond with your dog.

Labrador Dog breed

First-year vet visits and vaccinations will cost you around Rs.6,000, and regular check-ups will cost you about Rs.2,000 annually.

If you want to spay or neuter your dog, it will cost you an additional Rs.8,000 to Rs.15,000.

You can also expect an annual cost of around Rs.1,000 for toys and a monthly fee of Rs.500 for treats.


11. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are a small, high-spirited dog breed that wouldn’t hesitate to bark and hold their ground against larger dogs.

Pomeranians can cost between Rs.5,000 and Rs.15,000.

The monthly feeding cost of a pomeranian can range from Rs.1,500 to Rs.2,000.

Pomeranians have exceptionally fluffy coats that require frequent and preferably professional grooming, costing around Rs.2,000- Rs.2,500.

Pomeranian Dog breed

First-year vet and vaccination costs can be around Rs.5,000- 8,000, and regular check-ups afterward will cost you up to Rs.2,000 annually.

Neutering or spaying will cost you around Rs.8,000- Rs.10,000, and you’ll need toys to keep your dog occupied during its teething phase, which will cost you around Rs.1,000 annually.

You’ll also have to incur a monthly cost of Rs.500 on treats for your pup.


12. Pug

If any dog breed deserves to make it on this list of the cheapest dog breeds in India, it’s the adorable pug. 

Pugs are among the oldest dog breeds in the world, and they require significantly less training and grooming than other dog breeds in India.

This emotional dog breed is ideal for families with children, and they are also fit for apartment dwellings. 

A pug can cost around Rs.5,000 to Rs.20,000.

Pug Dog breed

But something to note is that pugs can be prone to obesity, which can rake in the vet bills at an alarming rate.

The monthly cost of having a pug as your pet dog can cost between Rs.2,000 and Rs.3,000 on average.


13. Rajapalayam

We can’t talk about the cheap dog breeds in India without mentioning the Rajapalayam.

Rajapalayam dogs originated in Southern India and were initially used for hunting boars.

A Rajapalayam dog is generally priced between Rs.9,000 and Rs.12,000 in India.

The monthly maintenance cost for this breed is between Rs.2,000 and Rs.4,000 because they have minimal needs, making them insanely affordable.

Rajapalayam Dog breed

However, while Rajapalayam dogs are affectionate and loyal to their owners, they can be hostile towards strangers and other animals.

Therefore they will require professional training and early socialization. These measures (especially early socialization) will nip any potential dangerous behaviors in the bud.


14. Rottweiler

A well-raised Rottweiler is a calm, confident, and loving treasure.

Rottweilers are popular dogs known for their intelligence and confidence.

Their historic role as guard and police dogs has imbued a sense of protectiveness in them, and they are obedient and easy to train.

A Rottweiler will cost you between Rs.15,000 and Rs.40,000, and your monthly cost for food will be approximately between Rs.6,500 and Rs.8,500.

Rottweiler Dog breed

It’s not easy to breed Rottweiler puppies without expertise. Therefore it is recommended that you neuter or spay your dog, which can cost you up to Rs.12,000 in metropolitan areas.

Rottweilers have short coats, and this makes grooming them extremely easy. On the other hand, training them should be done professionally, costing you somewhere between Rs.5,000 and Rs.7,000.


15. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is among the ranks of dog breeds in India that make excellent companions. They are calm, loyal, affectionate, and loveable.

They don’t do the best in hot weather, but you’re in the clear if you live in a bit of a cold city (or you should consider investing in air conditioning). 

The average cost of a Shih Tzu pup ranges from Rs.20,000 and Rs.25,000.

If you feed your Shih Tzu high-quality food, your feeding costs will be between Rs.2,000 and Rs.3,000 per month.

Shih Tzu Dog breed

You can groom your dog at home (for around Rs.500 per month), or you can commit to professional grooming services that cost around Rs.2,000 per session.

First-year vet visits and vaccination costs will likely amount to around Rs.5,000- Rs.10,000 for a Shih Tzu. Regular check-ups after this will cost no more than Rs.2,000.

Once again, you will need toys to help your pup through its teething phase, costing you around Rs.1,000 annually. Treats for your puppy will also cost you around Rs.500 per month.


Bottomline

If your budget has been holding you back from getting your little bundle of joy because you couldn’t afford to spend over Rs.1,000,000 just to purchase your pup, consider yourself held back no more!

These dog breeds in India are adorable, loyal, lovable, and light on your pocket. The perfect treasures!

Hopefully, this list helped you pick your new best friend and gave you an idea of all the long-term costs involved in having a dog because it’s NOT a one-time thing.

Use this list to get an idea of whether you’ll be able to look after your dog through thick and thin and if you can, go for it!

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Author
Thomas Villalpando
Thomas Villalpando is the main author of Dogs Academy. He spends his time reading, training, and working with several Dogs' behaviors. He has been featured in MSN, Yahoo Finance, The Sun, Entrepreneur & More. You can find more about him here.

5 thoughts on “Top 15 Cheapest Dog Breeds in India (Budget Friendly Pups)”

  1. I’m a hotelier, in India hotelier job per day 24 -15 hrs , in a day i will be atleast 15 -16 hrs in hotel itself .
    My query is which dog will suits to life style. I’m staying alone . But I have a facility to take dog to my work place but will it be quite not harming to hotel guest . Suggest me friendly breed dog.

    Reply
    • A dog that can adapt well to long hours and is friendly to both people and other animals would be ideal for your lifestyle. Some breeds that are known for their adaptability and friendly nature include: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and Poodle. It’s always best to socialize and train your dog properly to ensure they behave well in any environment.

      Reply

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