Ok, I've added up approximately how much my Yorkie costed us yearly -- he had serious health problems (Cushing's disease, deaf, blind, and dental problems since birth.) He cost us about $1,500+ yearly. We pay for ACTH testings, medicines, food, lab costs, veterinary care, vaxs, grooming, etc.
Now, my German Shepherd (who has lymphoma now
) costs us about $900 yearly including food, vet care, vaxs, and grooming. But that does NOT include $30/month for Rimadyl for arthritis and $40/month for joint supplement.
I treat my dogs as they are my children so I make sure they have good veterinary care, good food, etc. Some people can just have the vet give vaxs as a run-back and not need an examination, but I always make sure my dogs get examined yearly (or sometimes, twice a year.)
It just all depends!
But there are costs involved, no doubt. Always plan for emergencies.