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The 30 Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World

Darren May 13, 2023

Dogs are man’s best friends. For thousands of years, people have counted their dog as their most prized possession and companion. That’s because they provide love and are useful for work. All dogs are wonderful but some breeds are more expensive than others. Realistically, prospective owners will need a lot of money.

In this guide, we’ll look at 30 pedigree dog breeds that cost a fortune. From the initial cost of buying the animal to the lifetime expenditure, there’s a lot to think about. Many people are shocked to realize that they’ve spent thousands on their dogs over the years. Check out the list below via Newsweek.

30. German Shepherd

Also known as alsatians, this is one of the most distinct dog breeds on the planet. That’s because security services all over the world commonly use this animal. It’s very intelligent and powerful so it’s a great choice for police dog squads but it’s also a loyal family pet.

German shepherd puppies vary in price but a strong pedigree costs a minimum of $1000. Meanwhile, grooming costs may be expensive over the years because they have longer hair. Another issue is that they’re susceptible to hip and leg problems (via PDSA).

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29. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs have beautiful soulful eyes. They’re also very affectionate and make wonderful family pets. However, this pedigree breed is pricey and costs up to $2500. Most owners agree that they’re worth it because they’re such loving dogs (via American Kennel Club).

But they shed profuse amounts of hair so bear this in mind before buying one. They’re also more vulnerable to cancers than other dog breeds. Some Bernese Mountain Dogs suffer from rear-leg paralysis and cataracts. It’s important to buy from a reputable breeder because there will be fewer health issues.

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28. Old English Sheepdog

This classic pedigree breed was originally a working dog. Now their owners mostly keep them as pets because of their temperament and striking appearance. They’re very loving dogs and excellent with children. However, they drool a lot so be careful.

Like most pedigree breeds, Old English Sheepdogs are expensive. The costs don’t stop rising after buying one either. That’s because they require professional grooming. These dogs have extremely long hair and shed insane amounts on a seasonal basis (via This Dog’s Life).

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27. Black Russian Terrier

Blackies are gorgeous animals. The Russian army originally bred these pedigree canines as guard dogs. However, like most breeds, they have evolved beyond that. They are powerful but make great pets in the right conditions. But they’re not apartment dogs.

First, Black Russian Terriers are a pricey breed. It’s also not easy to find them in the U.S. They require a lot of exercise and shouldn’t be left alone for a long time. That’s because they become bored easily and may be destructive. However, they’re great with children and very loyal (via Dogtime).

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26. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds have an intimidating appearance but they’re surprisingly gentle. These loving, affectionate beasts have grizzled faces and massive sizes. But they’re great around children and affectionate toward their owners. Historically, their purpose was coursing wolves and deer.

However, they are expensive for several reasons. Firstly, the initial price of a pedigree Wolfhound is high. It may not be a great long-term investment either because these dogs have short lifespans. Most of them only live for six to eight years because of their great size (via Hills Pet).

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25. Chow Chow

A Chow Chow is one of the most distinctive Chinese dogs. This pedigree breed has distinctive chubby faces with a lion’s mane. This dog costs about $1000 but there are other factors to consider. The most important is grooming because they shed a lot of hair (via Daily Mail).

This shouldn’t be a surprise because they have a lot of it. Meanwhile, Chow Chows make great pets because they’re friendly and affectionate. They’re also good with children and are extremely laid-back. It’s highly unlikely that they’ll ever lose their temper or snap.

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24. Alaskan Malamute

Another iconic breed, the Alaskan Malamute is unmistakable. It looks more like a wolf than a regular household pet. It costs about $1200 to buy one from a good line but it’s worth paying more. That’s because owners can trust that they have a better pedigree.

Other costs include grooming and potential medical issues such as diabetes. Meanwhile, they’re not the best option for warmer climates. They will be prone to more health problems in hot environments. This is bad for the dog but it’s also likely to prove pricier for the owner (via AMCB).

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23. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are distinctive with their squat snouts and pointy ears. Many people find them cute because of their small size. They make great apartment pets because they don’t require a lot of space or shed much hair. However, there are some major points to bear in mind.

Overbreeding has resulted in many French bulldogs suffering from health problems. These include breathing difficulties as well as autoimmune disorders. Furthermore, some airlines refuse to fly them because of the risk. In sum, the lifetime costs can be extortionate (via Metro.co.uk).

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22. Akita Inu

Akita dogs originate from Japan where hunters used them to chase prey. However, these days they are common household pets. In some countries, it’s a requirement for them to wear muzzles. But most owners agree that they have a loyal and caring temperament.

Many American Akita dogs have mixed coloring. However, the Japanese version is more distinct with a tan and cream coat. These pedigree animals are more expensive because of this. They have a reasonably long lifespan but may suffer from health issues like other breeds (via Petfinder).

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21. St. Bernard

St. Bernard dogs are truly gentle giants. These massive dogs are much kinder than their appearance suggests. For this reason, they’re great family pets. But be careful around young children. That’s because their large size may result in them unintentionally knocking them over.

Similar to other very large pedigree breeds, they have shorter lifespans. This is something to consider because they’re expensive. Also, they may experience health problems related to their big size. St. Bernards offer a lot of love but can be a costly burden for unprepared owners (via Orvis).

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20. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water dogs are relatively uncommon. However, dog lovers covet this beautiful breed and are willing to pay a small fortune. They cost up to $2,500 to buy. But they are excellent family dogs and have a beautiful appearance too.

Grooming will also be expensive so think about that before buying one. However, they love playing and are fantastic with children. They’re also very loyal and adjust to different environments. This makes them great for people who move around a lot (via Neater Pets).

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19. English Bulldog

Another classic pedigree dog breed, the English bulldog is iconic. Despite their waddle and short legs, they’re very powerful. However, these dogs are laidback and loving. They present a low risk to children but may knock over small toddlers by mistake (via Independent).

However, their high cost makes them a prohibitive purchase. Another crucial issue is the risk of inbreeding. Unfortunately, this has become a serious issue and many of these dogs have health problems from birth. They can prove expensive over time.

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18. Lakeland Terrier

These playful little fellows are an expensive bundle of joy. But they’re less susceptible to health problems than other pedigree breeds. Lakeland terriers are great for families but have a lot of energy. They are good companions for children.

Meanwhile, they have a long lifespan of up to 16 years. It’s also important to check their teeth regularly because they’re prone to decay. That’s why it’s necessary to brush their teeth to preserve them. Grooming may be expensive because of their distinctive coat (via Country Life).

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17. Neapolitan Mastiff

This ancient breed of dog originates from Roman times. The imperial legions bred these powerful animals for battle. However, they have a docile and gentle temperament so don’t worry. But their long lineage results in an expensive price tag (via PetCloud).

Yes, they have an intimidating appearance but they love companionship. Some even describe them as a small dog in a big dog’s body. However, because they’re large they require space and a lot of food. This isn’t something to overlook before buying one.

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16. German Pinscher

Many people mistake pinschers for being a smaller variety of Doberman. However, the reality is that it’s a distinct breed of dog with an older lineage. While they’re excellent watchdogs, they’re also very playful. But they require an assertive owner.

German Pinschers are expensive dogs because of their strong pedigree. Expect to pay upward of $1000 for a puppy. Socialization is crucial from a young age so that it doesn’t develop behavioral problems. It’s also not the best option for homes with cats (via Vetstreet).

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Mandatory Credit: Royal Giant Schnauzers

15. Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzers are very expensive. It’s not uncommon to pay up to $5,500 for one of these magnificent pedigree dogs. They’re very striking because of their grizzled old-man faces with long beards. Meanwhile, they’re also robust.

Originally they were police dogs before the German Shepherd ousted them from this role. Giant Schnauzers also require a large yard and are playful. They’re smart too so don’t allow them to become bored. Otherwise, they may be destructive and misbehave (via Dog Temperament).

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14. Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is an unusual dog because it looks more like a lamb. Dog lovers adore this breed because it’s extremely cute. But it’s also very expensive with an average cost of $1500. That’s why they remain the stuff of dreams for many prospective buyers.

However, the price reflects the fact that these pedigree terriers are very rare (via PDSA). Fortunately, they are typically healthy and friendly dogs with a long lifespan. Originally from the U.K, these dogs are active pets and make great companions. But good luck trying to find one!

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13. Spinone Italiano

As their name suggests, these lovely dogs originally hail from Italy. Their appearance vaguely resembles a setter because of their long ears and pointed nose. Depending on their pedigree, they cost between $1500 and $2000 because they’re hard to find.

Meanwhile, they’re more docile and calm than other hunting dogs. This is great for potential owners because they’re also less destructive when alone. They also don’t shed as much as other breeds so there isn’t as much to worry about (via Alux).

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12. Leonberger

Leonbergers are highly expensive for a lot of reasons. Firstly, these purebred dogs are rare so it’s not going to be easy to find a good breeder. They’re also massive with a long lineage. Originating from Germany, like several of the most coveted breeds, these are fabulous animals.

They are huge and can weigh up to 170 pounds. However, despite their staggering size, they’re calm and friendly. These dogs are very similar to St. Bernards in many ways. Furthermore, they have a shorter lifespan because they’re so big (via Aussie Prices).

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11. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are not particularly rare but buyers get what they pay for. There are many dubious breeders out there. However, a strong pedigree bloodline can cost up to $4000. Contrary to common belief, these are loving dogs and make excellent family pets (via CBS News).

Farmers originally kept them to guard cattle but became more mainstream over the years. They indeed have the tools to be ferocious. However, correct socialization will reduce the risk. Tiny chihuahuas are much more likely to snap than these gentle giants.

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10. Lowchen

Lowchens have beards like old Kung Fu masters. That’s apt because this is an ancient breed. Expensive pedigree Lowchen cost around $7000 so these dogs aren’t a light investment (via Business Today). However, their owners adore them because they’re excellent family dogs and full of love.

If it wasn’t for their price, they’d be the perfect small breed. Meanwhile, they require regular grooming because of their long hair. On the bright side, they don’t shed that much. But they are needed so don’t leave them alone for too long. Otherwise, they may suffer separation anxiety.

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9. Saluki

The Saluki is the perfect example of why people love pedigree dog breeds. This divinely beautiful animal has a unique and distinctive appearance. It has long, slender limbs and a frail body. Many people mistake it for some kind of mythological creature.

Of course, all of this comes at a cost. According to Woman’s Day, a Saluki puppy costs about $2,500. These dogs are incredibly fast because of their long limbs. They’re also less prone to genetic diseases than other purebreds like the pug or English bulldog.

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8. Xoloitzcuintli

Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, this breed is certainly unusual. The Aztecs and Mayans kept them as pets so they have a rich and storied past. But the other result is an expensive price tag. Expect to pay between $1000 and $3000 for a pedigree Xoloitzcuintli.

Some people don’t like these dogs because of their hairless appearance. However, this is unfair because they are fun-loving and loyal pets. One point to remember is to cover them with sun lotion during hot weather. Otherwise, they’re vulnerable to sunburn (via National Geographic).

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7. Pharaoh Hound

The Pharoah Hound is very expensive for several reasons. First, they’re a rare and old breed of dog. It’s very difficult to find them outside of Malta. This makes their puppies extremely exclusive. Many people also consider them to be very aesthetically appealing.

Remarkably, there are even paintings of Pharaoh hounds in Ancient Egyptian art. It’s not a surprise that these dogs cost so much because of their history and scarcity. They’re also quite independent and don’t require much grooming (via Evening Standard).

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6. Dogo Argentina

The Dogo Argentina is very difficult to find in the U.S. because most states ban it. It’s the same situation in Europe because of its ferocious reputation. They weigh about 100 pounds and also have a tremendous bite force. Argentinians bred these dogs for big game hunting (via 7News).

A new Dogo puppy costs between $1000 and $4000. Of course, this depends on its pedigree. However, they are difficult to find and legal conditions may be in place. Sadly, many bad or inexperienced owners have ruined the reputation of these fabulous dogs.

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5. Samoyed

These days Samoyeds are increasingly popular because they look like fluffy white clouds. As a result, it’s possible to find pedigree Samoyed puppies for as low as $800. However, potential owners must understand that these aren’t cheap dogs to keep.

Samoyeds require a lot of professional grooming. Expenses may mount over time because of this. It’s essential to give a dog the care and attention that it deserves. Many buyers don’t research before they get a new puppy. Then, they’re shocked by the requirements (via samsmiles.org).

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4. Canadian Eskimo Dog

Another high-maintenance breed, the Canadian Eskimo Dog comes at a price. It’s possible to find them for $1,500 but usually, they cost a lot more. They are a beautiful breed, however, it’s a lot to pay. Some owners obsess over a particular breed and this one has its fans (via Petkeen).

These are also not house dogs. Canadian Eskimo Dogs are hardworking animals. Inuits and travelers still use them to pull sleds today. As a result, they’re full of energy. Furthermore, they have thick insulated coats like Samoyeds. Expect a lot of grooming and shedding.

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3. Azawakh

There aren’t many African dog breeds available in the United States or Canada. In short, that’s why the Azawakh is so expensive. This elegant canine hails from West Africa and costs about $3000. Furthermore, it’s not easy to find these coveted animals.

They are essentially a type of greyhound but slightly taller. Meanwhile, their coloring is typically tan and they have a strong resistance to hot temperatures. Azawakhs aren’t as fast as other breeds but they have remarkable patience (via Vet Street).

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2. Afghan Hound

Many celebrities love Afghan hounds because of their gorgeous hair. These dogs hail from the Middle East and carry a mystique. Needless to say, they don’t come cheap because of this. A pedigree show dog fetches thousands of dollars.

Nonetheless, the Afghan Hound turns heads like few other animals. Believe it or not, these dogs are excellent hunters as this was their original role. Nowadays, people keep them for their aesthetic rather than their work capacity (via The Scotsman).

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1. Tibetan Mastiff

Many regard the Tibetan Mastiff as the most expensive dog on the planet. That’s because a breeder once spent a million dollars on a puppy. However, it’s more common to find these magnificent animals for between $2000 and $5000.

Remarkably, they are no longer as popular as they once were in China. In recent years they were a status symbol but then reality sank in. These are massive dogs and require a lot of attention. Unfortunately, many owners abandoned them (via New York Times).

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