We love our pets, but it's no secret that dogs can get pretty expensive. Whether they've got a certified pedigree or came from a shelter, you'll still need to budget for food, toys, vet visits, and more. If you go the purebred route and snag an affectionate dog recognized by the American Kennel Club, you can expect to pay a pretty penny depending on the breed you choose—especially if you go through a reputable breeder.
Man's best friend doesn't have to be pricey, but if you're determined to snag a working dog, guard dog, or other rare dog breed, the cost of the pup will set you back a bit more. (Some of the most expensive dog breeds can cost as much as a used car!) Keep in mind that even the easiest dogs to train will need plenty of attention and activity, so factor training classes into the bill when you look at the price tag for a new puppy. Plus, many hypoallergenic dogs still require a lot of grooming and maintenance to keep up their appearance. And while buying a purebred pup may ward off some behavioral problems, these dog breeds are also prone to health conditions, like hip dysplasia, that will require extra care throughout your pet's life.
The most expensive dog breeds on this list range in price from a few grand all the way up to $10,000. Of course, your new pet's price will vary based on your area and the specific breeder—but these pricey pups don't come cheap!
1. Pharaoh Hound
Average Pharaoh Hound Cost: $2,500 - $6,500
Pharaoh hounds conjure images of pyramids and ancient Egyptians. They're powerful, fast dogs, and their lithe bodies give them an elegant and graceful appearance. You'll find them at the top of the class regarding obedience training, and they also make great hunting dogs.
Their most unique quality is also their most endearing: they can blush. If their ears and nose turn a rosy pink, you know they're happy or excited.
2. Akita
Average Akita Cost: $1,500-$4,500
This ancient working breed originated in Japan and is often found in the show ring and excelling in therapy work.
A Japanese Akita is large and powerful with a thick double coat and a trademark plush tail that curls over his back. They thrive in homes where they're considered to be part of the family and enjoy moderate exercise.
3. Tibetan Mastiff
Average Tibetan mastiff cost: $2,200-$7,000
Recognized for its "noble and impressive" appearance, this large breed also comes with an impressive price tag. Tibetan mastiffs are strong guardians, but their independent personalities often mean they'd rather be off on their own than participating in obedience training or other organized activities.
4. Rottweiler
Average Rottweiler Cost: $2,000-$8,000
Rottweilers have a complicated reputation of sometimes being viewed as vicious fighting dogs, but they also make excellent police, service, and therapy dogs. In addition, they are highly intelligent and loyal guardians that respond well to positive reinforcement training.
5. Chow Chow
Average Chow Chow Cost: $3,000-$8,500
A chow chow may look more like a cotton ball than a desirable dog breed, but that fluffy face comes at a price. Their most distinctive feature is the lion's mane that gives their heads that poofy appearance. These furry friends come in several coat colors, including red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream.
6. French Bulldog
Average French Bulldog Cost:$2,000-$4,000
These small, pointy-eared dogs are becoming more popular, and the rules of supply and demand mean a French bulldog puppy won't come cheap.
Their wrinkly faces and giant ears make them adorable pets and their eagerness to please means they excel at obedience training—although their stubborn personalities may require patience on the handler's part.
7. English Bulldog
Average English Bulldog Cost: $1,500-$4,000
Like its French cousin, the English bulldog is a popular breed with a higher price tag than you might expect. However, this small dog has slightly different ears, and mouth features separate from the English variety. Bulldogs of both types can be found all over North America and around the world.
8. Lowchen
Average Lowchen Cost: $4,000-$8,000
Also known as the "little lion dog," this small dog was once known as the rarest breed in the world. Most groomers keep the fur longer in the front, leading to a coat that looks very much like a small lion. These little dogs are energetic, intelligent, and non-shedding.
9. Saluki
Average Saluki Cost: $3,500-$10,000
Originating from Egypt, the Saluki has the unique distinction of being the world's oldest domesticated dog breed. For thousands of years, Salukis stood by kings and princes as their primary hunting dog. While you might not be royalty, rest assured that this breed is a highly affectionate dog perfect for families—if you can stomach the price tag.
10. Samoyed
Average Samoyed Cost: $4,000-$11,000
A Samoyed is a dog that can do it all. They excel in agility, herding, sledding, weight pulling, and obedience. Their thick white coats are perfect for cold temperatures—not to mention glamorous. Sammies are best known for their adorable black-lipped smile and their outrageous price.
11. Afghan Hound
Average Afghan Hound Cost: $1,500-$7,000
Afghan hounds are known for their long, silky locks and curly tails. While their fur may be beautiful, it does require a lot of maintenance. Owners should brush it daily to decrease the number of tangles. On average, an Afghan hound will live between 10-14 years. But they have quite a few health issues. Between cataracts and hypothyroidism, treatment can cost around $3,000. They are definitely a breed you should have pet insurance for!
12. Dogo Argentino
Average Dogo Argentino Cost:$4,000-$8,000
The Dogo Argentino is not native to the United States, but it does not decrease the desire to own one. The pups originated in South America and Asia. Their job was to hunt big game, namely wild hogs. They are very muscular and hail from the Cordoba fighting dog and the Great Dane. Due to their size and appearance, they are illegal to own in Colorado, New York City, and the United Kingdom. These muscular white dogs often live between 12-14 years.
13. Portuguese Water Dog
Average Portuguese Water Dog Cost:
These beautiful, water-loving pups rose to fame when Barack Obama was in office. His dog, Bo, was well-loved by many. This breed loves being a part of a family and will do well with children. Their coat is covered in tight curls, and they are known for not shedding very much. The eager to please pups live between 11-13 years.
14. Azawakh Dog
Average Azawakh Dog Cost: $3,000-$9,500
Azawakhs are very loyal and loving with their families. They love having other dogs around, but they do like to be the alpha pup. On average, males top out at 55 pounds, while female dogs weigh around 44. Their short fur is low-shed and comes in red, brindle, sandy, and partial colors. These athletic pups love being a part of active families and will live between 12-15 years.
15. Canadian Eskimo Dog
Average Canadian Eskimo Dog: $3,500-$8,000
These pups are incredibly rare. The Canadian Eskimo dog only has about 300 or so dogs left in North America. They originally came from Siberia and are predisposed to many different health issues, resulting in some pretty costly vet bills. They do better in homes without small children.
These popular pets have typical health issues of most large dogs, like elbow dysplasia and eye problems. Therefore, it is always a good idea to have pet insurance, especially for high-risk dogs. Other dogs with a high purchase price include pure-bred German shepherds, golden retrievers, the Irish wolfhound, Portuguese water dogs, and even Saint Bernards.
A hefty price tag connects all of these dog breeds, but they all have unique personalities and characteristics. These numbers may seem more appropriate for used cars than puppies, but a used car won't give you the love, fulfillment, and companionship that any one of these magnificent, albeit expensive, breeds will provide.
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READ MORE: Pet Insurance For Dogs: Important Details To Know Before Buying
