N.Y. dog ownership costs are among highest in U.S., study shows

New York has been ranked the fifth most expensive state to own a dog, according to a recent study.

The Empire State tied with Connecticut in fifth place, based on the cost of dog walkers, boarding, and doggy daycare, according to the study by Tractor Supply, a national chain with more than 2,300 stores across the country that offers a large variety of pet supplies.

Here’s why New York is so costly, the recently published study found:

• Pet boarding: Third most expensive in the country, at $60 a day
• Doggy daycare: Third-highest prices nationwide, at $45 a day
• Dog walking: Fourth most expensive nationwide, at $22 a day

While these supplies quickly add up, pet experts doing the research for Tractor supply garnered a few practical ways to keep your New York pup happy without overspending, according to the announcement.

Here are the top money-saving tips from New York dog owners, according to the research:

• Groom at home when possible – 67% say this saves a significant amount each year.
• Train your dog early – 61% say it helps prevent destructive (and costly) behaviors.
• Buy food and treats in bulk – 48% say this lowers monthly expenses.
• Visit low-cost vet clinics – 33% use these for routine checkups and vaccinations.
• Use auto-ship – 27% use these subscriptions for food, medications and essentials.

Here are the top 10 priciest states for dog ownership, according to the Tractor Supply research:

1. California: California is the most expensive state for dog walking ($25) and doggy daycare ($50).

2. Massachusetts: Massachusetts dog owners pay the third highest amount for doggy daycare ($45), pet insurance ($59 per month), and dog boarding ($60).

3. Washington: Washington is the most expensive state for dog walking ($25) and the third most expensive state for both doggy daycare ($45) and dog boarding ($60).

4. New Jersey: New Jersey dog parents pay the third highest amount for dog boarding ($60) and the fifth highest amount for veterinary care ($101 per visit).

5. New York (Tie): New York is the third most expensive state for dog boarding ($60), and the sixth most expensive state for dog walking ($22).

5. Connecticut (Tie): Connecticut dog owners pay the third highest amount for doggy day care ($45) and the fourth highest amount for dog walking ($24).

7. Maine: Maine tops the list of most expensive states for dog walking ($25) and pet sitting ($65).

8. Rhode Island: Rhode Island is the third most expensive state for pet sitting ($60) and the eighth most expensive state for doggy day care ($40).

9. New Hampshire: New Hampshire dog owners pay the fifth highest amount for dog walking ($23) and the seventh highest amount for pet sitting ($55).

10. Hawaii: Hawaii is the most expensive state for both veterinary care ($146 per visit) and pet insurance ($81 per month).