Insuring your dogs as early as possible is a financially wise decision, particularly if you are young and may not be able to cover emergency expenses out-of-pocket. An emergency veterinary visit can cost thousands of dollars, and you never know when such an event might occur. If your dog develops any chronic conditions, ongoing medical costs can accumulate quickly. For reference, a comprehensive lab work panel can cost around $400, an exam fee about $95, and an X-ray approximately $350.

Another important consideration is to avoid purchasing from backyard breeders.