Looking for a furry friend that won’t empty your wallet? While some designer dogs can cost thousands, many wonderful breeds are budget-friendly while still offering all the love and companionship you’re seeking. From rescue mutts to purebreds with reasonable price tags, these canine companions prove you don’t need to break the bank to find your perfect pet.
This list is based on our research of dog breeders and their offers in Canada as of 2025. Prices may vary depending on location, breeder reputation, and individual dog characteristics. Adoption from shelters is always the most affordable option at $200-$500.
1. Mixed Breed (Mutt)
Shelter superstars with unique personalities and often fewer health problems than purebreds. Most shelters charge $200-$350 for adoption fees, which typically includes vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering.
Mixed breeds combine the best traits of their diverse ancestry, creating one-of-a-kind companions with their own special charm. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing you’ve given a deserving dog a forever home!
2. Rat Terrier
Compact bundles of energy that won’t drain your savings! Rat Terriers typically cost $350-$600 in Canada, making them an economical choice for active families.
Originally bred for farm work, these clever pups excel at pest control while doubling as devoted family companions. Their small size means lower food costs, yet their big personalities will fill your home with joy.
3. Beagle
Friendly hound dogs with irresistible floppy ears and expressive eyes. Beagles usually range from $600-$850 in Canada, offering excellent value for a recognized purebred.
Famous for their keen sense of smell and melodious howls, these pack-oriented dogs thrive in family settings. Their medium size and wash-and-wear coat make maintenance straightforward, keeping long-term ownership costs reasonable.
4. American Eskimo Dog
Fluffy white beauties that sparkle with intelligence. Canadian prices for American Eskimo Dogs typically fall between $650-$900, providing affordable elegance.
Despite their luxurious appearance, these spitz-type dogs are surprisingly practical pets. They come in three size varieties: toy, miniature, and standard, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your living situation and budget.
5. Border Collie
Smartest dogs on the block without the premium price tag! Border Collies typically cost $700-$950 in Canada, offering exceptional intelligence for your dollar.
Originally sheep herders, these workaholic canines channel their energy into learning tricks, sports, or household tasks. Their remarkable problem-solving abilities and trainability make them perfect for active owners seeking a mentally stimulating companion.
6. Australian Cattle Dog
Rugged ranch hands in canine form, Australian Cattle Dogs typically range from $750-$1,000 in Canada. Their distinctive speckled coats come in blue or red varieties.
Nicknamed “Blue Heelers,” these hardy workers were developed to drive cattle across Australia’s challenging terrain. Their legendary toughness, loyalty, and low-maintenance coats make them economical companions for active owners with space for them to run.
7. Miniature Pinscher
Big dog attitude in a tiny, economical package! Min Pins typically cost $800-$1,100 in Canada, offering regal bearing without royal expense.
Often called “King of Toys,” these fearless little guardians strut around with the confidence of much larger dogs. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and their small size means lower food costs while still providing all the personality of a full-sized companion.
8. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Royal favorites with working-class prices! Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically fetch $850-$1,200 in Canada, making these royal favorites surprisingly accessible.
Despite their association with Queen Elizabeth II, these short-legged herders remain practical, hardworking dogs. Their fox-like faces and expressive eyes package incredible intelligence in an adorable, compact body that requires less food than larger breeds.
9. Shetland Sheepdog
Miniature Collie lookalikes without the hefty price tag! Shelties typically cost $900-$1,300 in Canada, offering beauty and brains in a smaller package.
Hailing from Scotland’s rugged Shetland Islands, these vocal herders excel at dog sports and family companionship. Their gorgeous coats require regular brushing, but their moderate exercise needs and eager-to-please nature make them wonderful, budget-conscious pets for suburban families.
10. Cocker Spaniel
Classic family dogs with silky ears and soulful eyes. Cocker Spaniels typically range from $950-$1,400 in Canada, offering traditional charm at a reasonable price.
America’s sweetheart breed for decades, these merry sporting dogs combine beauty with a gentle temperament. Their moderate size strikes the perfect balance – substantial enough for outdoor adventures yet compact enough for apartment living, making them versatile companions.
11. Brittany
Energetic hunting partners with friendly dispositions, Brittanys typically cost $1,000-$1,500 in Canada. Their versatile talents make them exceptional value for active families.
Originally French gun dogs, these medium-sized athletes excel at both field work and cuddle sessions. Their naturally bobbed tails and eager expressions reflect their enthusiasm for life, while their manageable size and wash-and-wear coats keep maintenance reasonable.
12. Boxer
Playful goofballs with serious guardian instincts. Boxers typically range from $1,100-$1,600 in Canada, offering substantial value in a medium-large package.
Known for their expressive faces and bouncy gait, these muscular dogs combine strength with surprising gentleness. Their short coats require minimal grooming, and their natural protectiveness makes them excellent family guardians without specialized training.
13. Australian Shepherd
Multicolored marvels with work ethic to spare! Aussies typically cost $1,200-$1,700 in Canada, offering tremendous versatility for their price point.
Despite their name, these dogs were developed in the western United States as all-purpose ranch hands. Their striking merle coats and mismatched eyes capture attention, while their problem-solving abilities and boundless energy make them perfect partners for active lifestyles.
14. Siberian Husky
Arctic beauties with wolf-like appearances and friendly souls. Siberian Huskies typically range from $1,300-$1,800 in Canada, offering exotic looks without exotic prices.
Bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia, these sled dogs combine endurance with striking ice-blue eyes. Their thick double coats shed seasonally but require less frequent bathing than many breeds, and their pack-oriented nature makes them sociable companions.
15. Labrador Retriever
Canada’s national treasure and America’s most popular breed! Labs typically cost $1,400-$2,000 in Canada, offering proven reliability for a moderate investment.
Originally Newfoundland fishing dogs, these versatile retrievers excel as family pets, service animals, and working dogs. Their otter-like tails, water-resistant coats, and famously sunny dispositions make them the gold standard for adaptable, good-natured companions.
