How Much Are Prairie Dogs

Prairie dogs typically cost between $100 and $300 when purchased as pets, though prices can vary depending on the breeder, location, and availability. However, the initial purchase price is just the beginning of what you'll need to budget for these surprisingly complex little critters.

What You'll Actually Pay

The base price for a baby prairie dog pup generally ranges from $124.99 to $250, with some breeders offering them at different price points throughout the year. One exotic pet retailer lists baby prairie dog pups at $124.99, though shipping adds an additional $385 and is only offered for orders of five or more animals. Individual prairie dogs from various breeders in states like Florida, Texas, and South Carolina are advertised at around $250 each.

Beyond the purchase price, you'll need to consider:

  • Enclosure costs : Prairie dogs require large, secure habitats
  • Veterinary care : Ongoing health checkups and potential emergency visits
  • Food and supplies : Specialized diet and enrichment items
  • Legal permits : Some states like Idaho, North Dakota, Oregon, and Virginia require special permits before you can own a prairie dog

Are They Worth It as Pets?

The prairie dog community has mixed feelings about keeping these animals as pets. While some owners describe deep, rewarding relationships similar to those with dogs or horses, others caution that prairie dogs are exceptionally demanding. They're highly social animals that live in groups in the wild, which means they need near-constant attention and can become depressed or even die if left alone too much.

Prairie dog owners report that these animals can be territorial and aggressive, especially around strangers, and they have a tendency to bite. One owner mentioned that their prairie dog destroyed furniture, walls, and belongings despite efforts to prevent it. Female prairie dogs are generally considered sweeter-tempered than males, though individual personalities vary widely.

The Reality Check

Prairie dogs possess remarkably sophisticated communication systems—they can create different "words" for various threats and even describe the size and shape of people to each other. This intelligence makes them fascinating companions, but it also means they need significant mental stimulation and social interaction.

If you're considering a prairie dog as a pet, experienced owners suggest you should only proceed if you can dedicate extensive time to their care, afford potentially costly veterinary bills, and manage the legal liability if your pet injures someone. As one Reddit user bluntly put it: "if you are a functional person, do not get one".

TL;DR : Prairie dogs cost $100-$300 upfront, but the real investment is in housing, veterinary care, and time commitment. They're highly intelligent and can form deep bonds, but they're also demanding, potentially aggressive, and require near-constant attention. Some states require special permits to own them. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.