The 15 Expensive Dog Breeds To Own
If you think buying a dog is as simple as picking out a puppy and grabbing a bag of treats, think again, as some breeds come with price tags that could make your jaw hit the floor. So, if that makes you curious, let’s take a look at 15 of the most expensive dog breeds to own.
Tibetan Mastiff
Owning a Tibetan Mastiff is like housing a shaggy mountain with opinions. These dogs were bred to protect cattle against predators, and it shows—they act like royalty and expect the same treatment. Lastly, add in a strong will and a tendency to test your patience.
Samoyed
That big, beaming “Sammy smile” might melt your heart, but wait until your wallet starts sobbing. Samoyeds shed like a snowstorm caught in a wind tunnel. They thrive in cold climates and air-conditioned homes, so if you’re somewhere sunny, you’ll basically be paying their cooling bill for life.
Chow Chow
Originating in China over 2,000 years ago, Chow Chows demand high grooming and specialized training. Prone to entropion, elbow dysplasia, and immune disorders, veterinary visits aren’t optional. Hence, this lion-like breed hides an expensive lifelong medical commitment.
Lowchen (Little Lion Dog)
Blink, and you’ll miss one—these dogs are rare enough to make unicorns jealous. With around 600 born each year, the Lowchen has exclusivity down to an art. If you’re dreaming of a dainty dog who looks like royalty and acts like a cheeky court jester, you’re in luck.
Afghan Hound
These glamorous hounds glide like a supermodel with somewhere better to be. You miss one grooming session, and you’re suddenly detangling a walking mop. Despite the elegance, they’re not easygoing lapdogs, as they’re independent, aloof, and chase anything that moves.
Rottweiler
Built like tanks and loyal to the core, Rottweilers are the quiet bodyguards of the dog world. They don’t waste energy barking at shadows, but when something’s off, you’ll know it. They come with a laundry list of issues that creep in as they age, and they don’t exactly respond well to bargain-brand dog food.
Canadian Eskimo Dog
These dogs need space—or they’ll invent their own version of fun (like redecorating your sofa). Since they’re one of the rarest breeds around, getting one is expensive, and keeping one happy is even pricier. Plus, unless your living room resembles a walk-in freezer, you’ll be cranking the AC.
Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound looks like it time-traveled out of an ancient Egyptian mural. But those looks require upkeep such as agility classes, lean meals, and time to sprint. Moreover, they might have sensitive skin and a delicate digestion which just don’t do well with shortcuts.
Dogo Argentino
Once bred to hunt big game like wild boar, the Dogo Argentino doesn’t know the meaning of “back down.” They’re bold and intense, which makes most burglars rethink their life choices. Plus, their white coat makes skin issues pop up like bad roommates, and their size means food and vet bills hit hard.
Portuguese Water Dog
Obama’s choice of pet didn’t come cheap. These curly-coated dynamos were once fishermen’s helpers, diving into chilly waters to herd fish into nets. Today, they’re known for being hypoallergenic whirlwinds of energy who need as much stimulation as a game show host.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Behind those melting eyes and silky ears hides a health history that reads like a medical drama. Cavaliers are the kind of dogs who’ll curl up on your lap and gently empty your savings on specialist visits. They’re small, regal, and so affectionate they practically vibrate with joy around humans.
Akita
Noble and stoic, Akitas can weigh over 100 pounds and cost thousands in food alone. Immune-related diseases like VKH and hypothyroidism drive medical expenses higher. Furthermore, their solitary temperament complicates training, making professional handlers a recurring expense.
French Bulldog
Frenchies come with deluxe care instructions. Breathing like an old harmonica, they struggle with everything from heat to stairs. Most can’t even be bred naturally, so their price tag includes fancy medical help before they even arrive at your door.
Saluki
These ancient hunters were prized by nomads, and they haven’t forgotten it. Their ultra-lean build means soft bedding is essential, and their flight instincts are stronger than a magician’s vanish act. They eat clean, run fast, and demand the kind of delicate handling reserved for fine china.
English Bulldog
Iconic wrinkles come at a premium. English Bulldogs often suffer from cherry eye, hip dysplasia, and breathing issues. Their short snouts cause overheating, requiring climate-controlled spaces. Regular infections and dietary restrictions create ongoing costs. You’ll need more than treats to keep them thriving.
