Want to add a pug to your family? Welcome to the pug club. But how much do pugs cost?
If you’re wondering how much it costs to buy a pug, you’ve come to the right place!
Pugs are such funny and lovable little dogs. They’re incredibly versatile, and great for both children and seniors, in apartments or houses, and in the country or city.
Their good looks, charm and loyalty make them very popular, so getting a pug won’t come cheap. Here’s what you need to know about pug prices before you take the plunge.
Related:10 Things You Should Know Before Getting a Pug
Article Contents
The following information regards prices in the United States. If you’re located in another country – sorry!
So, how much are pugs?
The cost of a pug depends on:
There are three factors that go into the pug price:
- Location –prices can vary from state to state.
- Dog pedigree – did the puppy’s uncle win Westminster? If so, he’ll cost more! Puppies from champion lines (“show quality”) cost more than puppies who are “pet quality.”
- Time of year – late spring and winter holidays tend to be busy puppy buying seasons.
How much do pugs cost if…
- I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue?
- I buy a pug from a reputable breeder?
- I want a specific color pug?
How much do pugs cost if I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue?
Adopting a pug is often the cheapest route to take if you’re looking for a pug – plus, you’ll be saving a life!
Prices usually range from $150 to $500.
Some rescues charge a flat fee to adopt a pug, while others vary in price and depend on factors like the pug’s age (puppies will cost more than seniors).
If you’re looking to adopt, check out this complete list of pug rescues in the United States.
How much do pugs cost if I buy a pug from a reputable breeder?
If you are buying a purebred pug from registered parents you can expect to pay anywhere from about $1,200 – 2,500. If your pug comes from a champion line and is show quality, they can cost even more.
The price will depend on many factors, such as the quality of the dog’s pedigree and the area of the country.
Can you pay less for a pug from a reputable breeder?
Actually, yes.
Sometimes breeders may have adult dogs to place in good, loving homes after they’ve retired from the show ring or breeding. These retired pugs are usually spayed or neutered and cared for as beloved pets. In many cases, they are still only a few years old and get placed for free or for a small fee.
Some breeders may list these dogs on their website, while others may just keep them as pets until the right home comes along. If you have a breeder in mind, but sure to ask them.
Why are pugs so expensive?
Pugs are expensive because they have small litters, often need a C-section to give birth, and because they are a popular breed in high demand.
The average size of a pug litter is 4 to 6 puppies. Pugs are prone to health issues, and can have complications during and after pregnancy. Expensive vet bills, and excellent care, are not cheap, meaning that puppies will cost more.
How much do pugs cost if I want a specific pug color?
According to the American Kennel Club, pugs come in three colors:
- Silver.
- Apricot-fawn, with a black face mask.
- Black.
However, some may breed “exotic” colors, like white, brindle, panda or caramel.
Exotic colors may cost more, and they’re often harder to come by. Learn more about pug colors here.
Why you should never buy a pug puppy from a backyard breeder:
If you search for “pug puppy for sale” in Google, you’re bound to find plenty of Craigslist posts and cheap listings for pug puppies costing $200 – $600 a pop.
Your eyes may bulge with excitement. A brand new pug puppy for less than $1,000? It sounds too good to be true! But that’s because, it is.
These puppies are sold by backyard breeders.
Backyard breeders are amateur breeders who breed dogs in substandard and unethical ways.
They often do not provide proper care to the animals they’re breeding, in part because their emphasis is on money and not the animals’ wellbeing.
Sure, you’ll save money initially by buying from a backyard breeder, but you’re far more likely to get a sick puppy that you’ll need to spend tons of money on at the vet. Plus, you’ll be supporting a terrible business that abuses dogs. It’s a lose-lose situation.
So skip the cheap puppy ads and Craigslist posts and focus on finding a reputable breeder. Need help weeding out the bad guys? Check out our guide on How To Find A Reputable Pug Breeder.
The extra cost of getting a pug:
The price you pay to own a pug is just the beginning.
After that comes other expenses, like vaccines, check-ups, food, supplies, pet insurance, training and more.
You’ll be spending not just money, but a lot of quality time with your new pug. They’ll require constant care and training – puppies can’t potty train themselves!
The bottom line:getting a pug is a serious time and financial investment, but it’s more than worth it because pug love is priceless!
How much did your pug cost?
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