The cost of a West Highland White Terrier in the United States

Lifetime cost to own

The all-in number over the dog's whole life.

Price to buy this breed

Typical breeder & puppy price for this breed.

New-puppy setup

Crate, bed, bowls, leash and starter gear.

Adoption fees

Shelter & rescue adoption costs vs. buying.

Food & diet

Kibble, fresh, raw and treats — scaled to size.

Grooming

Professional grooms and at-home upkeep.

Boarding & daycare

Kennel nights, daycare and dog walkers.

Training

Group classes, private and board-and-train.

Vaccinations & shots

Puppy series, boosters and non-core shots.

Spay / neuter

Desexing cost by size, clinic vs. low-cost.

Dental cleaning

Cleaning under anesthesia, with/without extractions.

Microchip

Implant and registration cost.

Deworming, flea & tick

Heartworm, flea/tick and worming prevention.

Bloodwork & imaging

X-ray, ultrasound, MRI and lab panels.

Surgery

ACL/TPLO, mass removal, cataract, bloat and more.

Cancer & chemo

Chemotherapy and tumour treatment costs.

Emergency vet

After-hours ER visits and hospitalization.

Pregnancy & breeding

Stud, progesterone, ultrasound, whelping, C-section.

Euthanasia & cremation

Compassionate end-of-life and aftercare costs.

Pet insurance

Monthly premium vs. self-insuring this breed.