Written by Dr. Marcelle Landestoy, DVM
Becoming a pet parent is a serious decision, and choosing the right pet for yourself is essential.
The poodle is a very intelligent dog breed, quickly trained and eager to please.
Owning any pet can be a costly proposition, but how expensive is owning a poodle?
It may be expensive to own a poodle since they have more costs due to their initial purchase price, inclination to allergies and itchy skin, and grooming needs. This breed is high-maintenance in health, grooming requirements, and ongoing care, so expect to spend around $425 a month.
Read on to learn about their food and supplement needs, vet and dental care, and other monthly costs.
From puppyhood to senior poodles, caring for your pet will be an investment that pays big, furry dividends.
Food and Supplements
Proper nutrition is essential for all pets, but poodles need food that keeps their fur healthy and shiny with high-quality ingredients to ensure overall vibrance.
Choosing a dog food for your pet can feel daunting with the many selections available.
Still, the following information will help you find the right one for your poodle dog.
Another consideration is whether your pet needs supplements and special treats. We will address those, too.
- Wet food is generally higher in fat and calories. This type of food is suitable for poodles who have trouble chewing or experience teething pain. It comes in a can, so be sure to use all the food once you open the can or place the leftovers in the refrigerator to prevent spoiling.
- Dry kibble comes in a bag and can be an excellent choice for your poodle. Chewing the hard kibble is good for teeth cleaning and jaw development. Dry kibble should have protein as the first ingredient and be formulated for the proper life stage. Keep the kibble stored in an airtight container.
- Homemade food is a popular choice. A poodle cannot simply consume prepared human food because it contains too much sodium and calories. If you wish to feed your pet human food with no added ingredients, discuss this with your veterinarian to ensure adequate proportions of each food group. One advantage of homemade food is that you can mix cooked and raw foods for the best nutrition content.
- Specialty food focuses on healthy fats like Omega 3 and 6, DHA for brain and eye development, and other specific nutrients in an unprocessed form. This type of food delivers gently-cooked food that offers easy digestion and balanced nutrition.
Most poodle pets won’t need a vitamin supplement when they consume a healthy diet of food formulated for their growth needs, but this can be a personal choice you make.
Puppy
Because your poodle puppy is the delight of your life, you want to feed them the best food for development and growth.
Here are some recommendations to help you select the best food and supplements for their age.
Puppy food has undergone vital research to meet your pet’s needs.
Growing puppies will need extra calories to meet the fast growth they are experiencing, including additional calcium, protein, and carbohydrates.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Wet Food | Approximately one month | Expect to spend between $75-100 |
| Dry Kibble (grain-free and high protein) | Approximately one month | Expect to spend between $45-55 |
| Homemade | Approximately one month | Based on the combination from Balance It of cooked chicken, rice, olive oil, frozen mixed vegetables, expect to spend between $92-125 |
| Specialty | Approximately one month | Expect to spend between $150-200 |
| Puppy Age | Food Type | How Often per Day |
| Up to 3 months | Your choice of wet, dry, homemade, or specialty | Always available. When feeding homemade or specialty food, aim for one ounce per pound in body weight. |
| 3-12 months | Your choice of wet, dry, homemade, or specialty | Feed one cup of food 2-3 times per day at regular intervals |
Adult
Feeding your adult poodle high-quality food will ensure they continue to thrive and maintain good health.
Supplements are unnecessary when you feed your pet correctly, exercise regularly, and always provide fresh water.
Some poodles struggle with allergies, while others are picky eaters.
If your poodle has allergies, your veterinarian will recommend an elimination diet to find out the issue.
They might also prescribe steroids and antihistamines for itching until the allergy source has resolved.
For picky eaters, you can try adding warm bone broth or fish oil to their food.
Check the feeding bowl to ensure it’s the proper depth and size for easy access to their food.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Dry kibble, wet food, specialty or homemade | Twice per day at regular intervals, 1 oz. per pound of body weight divided into two feedings | Approximately $50-100 |
Senior
Senior poodles have different requirements for their aging bodies.
Along with regular exercise and plenty of water, a senior poodle will need a lower calorie food to accommodate for less activity.
Older poodles can have trouble with diabetes, liver disease, or kidney failure, which are issues your veterinarian will check for at the annual exam.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| High fiber, low-fat food | Twice per day, 1oz per pound of body weight | $50-100 |
Grooming and Hygiene
Poodles of any age need regular grooming to keep their fur healthy and unmatted.
Unlike other dog breeds, the poodle’s hair will continue to grow without ongoing grooming, making them look unkempt and shaggy.
Hygiene for poodles of all ages is also essential. Their eyes need to be cleaned of the weepy goo that settles in the corners.
Their floppy ears also require regular cleaning to prevent ear infections common in this breed.
If you choose to groom your poodle yourself, you must purchase the following tools:
- Grooming shears
- Nail trimmers
- A slicker brush
- Stainless steel comb
- Conditioning spray
- Ear cleaner
- Eye cleaning wipes.
Bathing
Bathing your dog once per week with dog shampoo to keep their fur clean and shiny.
If you don’t have the facilities at home to bathe your pet, many cities have a dog bath location where you can wash, dry, and comb them for a monthly fee.
You can also schedule a weekly appointment with the groomer for a wash and dry.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming for your poodle keeps their claws dull and less likely to scratch you, the floors, and the furniture.
Clipping your pet’s nails is essential to keep them from growing too long.
You can purchase an automatic nail clipper online, or your groomer can ensure the nails are trimmed at each visit.
Hair Care and Trimming
Left untrimmed, your poodle’s hair will grow and grow into a matted mess.
This creates a situation where dead skin cells and dirt will get below the hair to stay on their skin, creating an unhealthy state that you cannot see.
Poodles need regular brushing and hair trimming to keep their coats in the best condition.
Below are the monthly grooming costs for puppies, adults, and seniors.
Puppy
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Bathing | Once per week | Puppy-formulated shampoo and conditioner $30 |
| Grooming | Daily brushing to keep hair free of mats | Brush $10-15 once |
Adult
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Bath and Grooming (includes nail trim, ear and eye cleaning) | Every 4-6 weeks | $50-80 depending on your location |
| Groom at home | Every 4-6 weeks | All supplies for initial grooming investment $100-125 Once per month shampoo, conditioner, eye wipes, and ear cleaner $50 |
| Ear Cleaning | Once per week | $30 |
Senior
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Bath and Grooming (includes nail trim and eye cleaning) | Every 4-6 weeks | $50-80.00 depending on your location |
| Groom at home | Every 4-6 weeks | All supplies for grooming initial investment $100-125 Once per month shampoo, conditioner, eye wipes, and ear cleaner $50 |
Dental Care
Poodles are prone to dental problems, so you will want to plan dental care for your pet starting at two months old.
To prevent the start of gum disease and tartar buildup, discuss dental care with your veterinarian at the first puppy appointment, so you know what to expect.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Dental Care | Puppy: Toothbrush and toothpaste | $12-15 |
| Adult and Senior toothbrush and toothpaste | $10-13 | |
| Veterinarian Dental Care | Once per year | $500 |
Special Care
Some pet parents feel better when giving their poodles supplements for joints, hair, and digestion.
There might also be times when your poodle will need veterinarian-prescribed cortisone cream for itchy spots and any other issues that arise and need medicine (which you should discuss with your veterinarian).
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Vitamins | Once per day Glucosamine | $10-20 |
| Once per day Fish Oil | $25 | |
| Once per day Antioxidants | $25 | |
| Once per day Probiotics | $30 |
Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary care for your poodle is crucial to maintaining good health and preventing disease.
An annual health evaluation is necessary to keep your poodle feeling and looking well.
Your veterinarian knows what to look for in this breed, so you can implement practices that encourage the best outcome for a long, happy dog life.
Checkups and Vaccines
Taking your pet to the vet regularly will maintain their overall health.
As they get older, your poodle will need regular checkups to prevent the onset of illnesses that some poodles are more susceptible to.
Puppy
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Annual vaccinations | Once per year | $10 |
| Veterinary Care-annual | Once per year from 4 weeks to 12 months Veterinarian will look for: Heartworms, parasites, ear infections, eye care, skin infections, and joint problems Veterinarian will administer: vaccinations, heartworm, and a parasite check | $100 |
Adult
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Veterinary Care-annual | Once per year from 4 weeks to 12 months Veterinarian will look for: Heartworms, parasites, ear infection, eye care, skin infections, joint problems Veterinarian will administer: vaccinations, heartworm and parasite check Veterinarian will assess for: back problems, cancer, blood issues, eye problems, diabetes, heart disease, skin infections, and kidney disease. | $100 |
Senior
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Veterinary Care-annual | Once per year from 10 years+ Veterinarian will look for: Heartworms, parasites, ear infections, eye care, skin infections, joint problems. Changes in behavior or physical body Veterinarian will administer: vaccinations, heartworm, and parasite check | $100 |
Insurance
Getting insurance for your pet poodle will keep your mind at ease, especially as they get older.
Since some poodles can be susceptible to certain conditions as they age, it’s vital to mitigate the sudden shock of a high vet bill by getting the correct insurance.
Doing so will allow you to feel better prepared should something happen.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Embrace Poodle Insurance | Exceptional Coverage includes: no network requirements, your pet can see any veterinarian, specialist, or emergency service Covers any illness or injury, prosthetic limbs, dental injury Ages: 6 weeks – 14 years | $45 |
| ASPCA Poodle Insurance | Affordable Coverage for special conditions, injuries Tailored plans to specific needs | $25 |
Pet Supplies
Of course, when you have a pet, you want to give them the best of everything.
There are many items your poodle will need, from a collar to chew toys.
These items change from puppyhood to the later life of your poodle.
Necessary
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Dog Bed | There is a wide variety of dog beds for your poodle, including round, oval, rectangular, or square. Dog beds also have a memory foam base and soft, fluffy fabric on top for the best comfort. | $20-100 |
| Toys Food and water bowls | Chew toys, fetch toys, balls, kong food holders, stuffed animals, etc. Your poodle will need a shallow food bowl and a deep water bowl. | $25 $10-25 one-time cost |
| Leash and collar | Some pet parents want an elaborate collar and leash for their poodle, while others want a standard leash and collar. | $15-40 depending on customization |
| Walking harness | A harness can keep your poodle from pulling and makes walking together more comfortable and safe. | $10-40 |
| Crate | Some poodle parents want their pet to sleep in the crate at night, while others do not. | $50-100 |
| Poop bags | To collect their droppings for trash | $15 for 360 bags, enough for a year |
Optional
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Monthly goodie box | This includes toys, lick mats, and other items to engage your poodle. | $30 |
| Smart Love Puppy | This mimics the sound of the mother dog’s heartbeat in a furry dog for comforting puppies who are having separation anxiety. | $36-50 |
| Pooper scooper | A mechanism to allow you to scoop up the poop if you don’t wish to use bags. | $25 |
| Smart Dog toys | These toys will throw out treats in a random pattern. | $10-15 |
| Pet Camera | To let you watch your poodle when you’re not home. | $50-150 |
Additional Costs
Some additional costs may not occur each month but do factor into the cost of owning a poodle.
These extra costs might include a dog walker, trainer, and doggy daycare. These options are entirely subject to your pet’s needs and your preferences.
While they may not be vital, investing in daycare might be a good idea if you are working all day and leaving your pet on their own.
Dog Walker
In general, a dog walker costs approximately $20 per visit.
You may not need a dog walker every day, especially if you don’t work on weekends, but having one during the week might be a lifesaver.
You can find a dog walker online or through local recommendations.
Daycare or Dog Sitting
A full day of dog daycare ranges from $12-38, while dog sitting in your home costs between $10-25.00 per hour.
Again, you may not think this is necessary, but if you work a full-time job and leave your poodle in the house on their own all day, this might be an option.
Dog Hotel
Boarding at a dog hotel averages $30-50.00 per day. This might not be something you would consider on a daily basis.
Still, when you’re going on holiday, or you have a work conference, it might just be a lifesaver.
Remember to research the dog hotel to ensure their services work for your poodle.
Training
Dog training averages $50.00 per class. Again, this is an entirely subjective expense, and if your poodle is perfectly well-behaved, you may not need it.
However, a dog trainer might be necessary if your pet tends to run away when let off the leash or just refuses to listen to you.
Microchip
The cost to microchip your dog is $25-60.00. In many states, this is a legal requirement.
However, if it is not a legal requirement in your state, it’s still something you should consider.
If your poodle goes missing, the microchip might be the difference between finding them and never seeing them again.
Talk to your vet about options for microchipping your poodle.
Monthly Budget of Owning a Poodle
This chart will summarize the monthly expense of owning a poodle dog as a pet.
| Item | Range | Average Monthly Cost |
| Food | Approximately one month | Expect to spend around $125 |
| Grooming and Hygiene | Approximately one month | Expect to spend around $60 |
| Dental Care | Approximately one month with once per year dental cleaning | Expect to spend around $43 |
| Special Care/Vitamins | Approximately one month | Expect to spend between $50 |
| Veterinary Care and Vaccinations | Once per year | $10 |
| Pet Insurance | Once per month | $35 |
| Pet Supplies and Toys | Once per month | $52 |
| Additional Costs: dog sitting, dog hotel, dog walker, training, microchip | Once or more per month | $50 |
| MONTHLY COST | $425 | |
| ANNUAL COST | $5100 |
References
- Animal Necessity: The Poodle Online Wellness Care Guide
- The Happy Puppy Site: Feeding A Poodle Puppy – Diet Tips And Scheduling Ideas
- The Farmer’s Dog: Puppy Guide: How to Feed Your Puppy
- Petfinder: Do Dogs Need Vitamins?
- AyoPets: Is It Cheaper To Make Your Own Dog Food? Cost Guide With Tables
- Balance IT: Auto Balancer EZ for Healthy Adult Pets
- Fetch by WebMD: Senior Dog Food: Meeting Aging Canines’ Nutritional Needs
- Dog Food Advisor: Best Low Fat Dog Foods
- The Grooming Salon: HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET MY DOG GROOMED?
- Home Guide: How much does dog grooming cost?
- The Dogington Post: 10 Simple Steps to Grooming Your Poodle At Home
- Poodles Info: How To Guide: Clean A Poodle’s Eyes
- American Kennel Club: How to Groom a Standard Poodle
- Poodle Report: How to Take Care of Poodle Teeth: The Ultimate Checklist
- Winter Park Veterinary Hospital: Your Poodle
- Forbes Advisor: Best Pet Insurance Companies Of April 2022
- Embrace Pet Insurance: Best Friends Deserve the Best Pet Insurance
- ASPCA: Pet Health Insurance
- Home Guide: How Much Does A Pet Sitter Cost?
- Canine Journal: How Much Does A Dog Teeth Cleaning Cost? Average Cost For Dental Cleaning & Extraction
Read my post on THE MOST COMMON AILMENTS OF POODLES so you can plan in case your pup is affected by any of these.
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| Marcelle Landestoy Veterinary Hospital Director at UCE Dr. Marcelle is a general veterinarian with a Small Animal Medicine Specialty | Director of the UCE School of Veterinary Medicine | Certified by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society |
