herding

Collie

12–14 year lifespan · large breed · 50–75 lbs

$52,000 – $71,000

Estimated 13-year lifetime cost of a Collie in California, excluding insurance

$7,200 First year
$4,300 Each year after
$500 Expected medical

On pure expected value, premiums cost more than the average payout here. But Collies face an elevated risk of expensive conditions, so insurance still makes sense as protection against a single catastrophic bill rather than as a money-saver.

How much does a Collie cost per year?

Annual cost breakdown for a Collie in California. Ranges reflect typical low-to-high spending.

Food $1,200–$1,600
Routine Vet Care $750–$1,050
Preventatives $400–$550
Illness & Emergency Reserve $450–$600
Grooming $400–$550
Supplies & Gear $500–$650
$4,300
per year
Food$1,40033%
Routine Vet Care$90021%
Preventatives$45010%
Illness & Emergency Reserve$50012%
Grooming$50012%
Supplies & Gear$55013%

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What health problems do Collies have?

Breed-specific conditions your Collie may face, ranked by expected cost impact.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat/GDV)

●●●● life-threatening Age 3–10
Probability 6%
Treatment range $550–$10,800

Cataracts

●●○○ moderate Age 4–10
Probability 8%
Treatment range $50–$6,750

Hip Dysplasia

●●○○ moderate Age 1–6
Probability 8%
Treatment range $50–$9,450

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

●●●○ severe Age 3–8
Probability 8%
Treatment range $50–$250

Idiopathic Epilepsy

●●○○ moderate Age 1–5
Probability 6%
Treatment range $0–$350

Risk tier: low. Total expected medical cost: $500 over the breed's lifetime.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Collie?

Over your dog's lifetime, you'll pay $8,500 in premiums. Expected uninsured medical costs: $0–$2,000.

Self-insure may be betterPets Best · 13-year projection
Best value

Pets Best

Monthly premium $55/mo
Annual premium $650/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available

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MetLife

Monthly premium $85/mo
Annual premium $1,000/yr
Deductible $250
Reimbursement 100%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Dental illness included
  • Unlimited annual limit available

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Trupanion

Monthly premium $80/mo
Annual premium $950/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available
  • No orthopedic waiting period

Get a quote from Trupanion

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Collie cost over its lifetime?

A Collie costs between $52,000 and $71,000 over its 12–14 year lifespan in California. The first year typically costs around $7,200 including supplies, training, and initial vet visits.

What are the most common Collie health problems?

The most common health issues for Collies include Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat/GDV), Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Owners should budget for both preventive care and potential treatment costs.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Collie?

On pure expected value, premiums cost more than the average payout here. But Collies face an elevated risk of expensive conditions, so insurance still makes sense as protection against a single catastrophic bill rather than as a money-saver. The Collie is a large breed with significant health risks. Higher incidence of expensive orthopedic and cardiac conditions. Insurance frequently pays for itself.

How much does Collie food cost per month?

Collie food costs typically range from $71 to $146 per month, with an average of $107. Costs vary based on food quality, brand, and your dog's specific dietary needs.

How much is Collie pet insurance per month?

Pet insurance for a Collie costs $39–$84 per month (average $58/mo). Premiums vary by your dog's age, location, chosen deductible, and reimbursement level.

Sources

Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.