According to the Pet Advocacy Network, the pet industry contributes hundreds of billions of dollars to the United States economy each year. Woof! That’s a lot of cash. In the United States, the average cost of pet ownership sits at around $1,600 per year. That cost can be even higher if dog parents choose to own one of the most expensive dog breeds.
Top 10 most expensive dog breeds
There are many factors that can increase the cost of owning a certain breed. For example, popularity and historical significance can increase the cost of buying from a breeder. In addition to demand, certain breeds may cost more due to health conditions, grooming requirements, and additional training.
We’ve rounded up the most expensive dog breeds.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a unique, ancient dog breed with an elegant appearance. They have silky coats and a dramatic presence. Aside from their physical attributes, Afghan Hounds are known for their comical personalities and reserved natures. They are known for their affectionate, energetic, and adaptable temperaments.
These graceful dogs require daily brushing, as their long coats can easily become tangled. With an average lifespan of 10-14 years, these dogs are prone to medical conditions including hypothyroidism and cataracts.
Afghan Hounds from reputable breeders can cost around $7,000.
Pharaoh Hound
Loyal and intelligent, the Pharaoh Hound is an ancient dog breed used for hunting. Originally used by the Pharaohs of Egypt, these majestic dogs are currently recognized as the official dog of Malta. Known as one of the first domesticated dog breeds, Pharaoh Hounds are highly athletic, easily trainable, and affectionate.
Although they make great pets for families and are easily able to adapt to apartment living, this breed is very sensitive to stress. As a result, they may experience neurological or digestive issues which can be expensive to treat.
Pharaoh Hounds can cost between $7,000-7,500.
Dogo Argentino
Known for their muscular stature and athleticism, this Dogo Argentino is one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. While imposing in appearance, Dogo Argentinos are loyal and protective of their owner. Bred for hunting, they have a high prey drive, a strong will, and a distrust of strangers. As such, this dog breed may be too difficult for first-time dog owners. It is illegal to own a Dogo Argentino in the United Kingdom, New York City, and Colorado.
With proper training, this dog breed can make a wonderful addition to a home. They sometimes even work as service dogs and in search and rescue. Dogo Argentinos possess a higher risk for hip dysplasia and deafness, which can add to the cost of owning this breed.
Buying a Dogo Argentino can cost around $8,000.
Canadian Inuit Dog
According to the United Kennel Club (UKC), the Canadian Inuit Dog or Canadian Eskimo Dog is an aboriginal breed with a long history of interdependent relations with the Inuit people of the Arctic. Currently facing extinction, the Canadian Inuit Dog is extremely rare. In 2018, there were only an estimated 300 dogs of this breed remaining. Originally from Siberia, the Canadian Inuit dog decreased in number after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) dog killings in the mid-20th century.
Known for their majestic appearance and thick coats, these dogs are not adaptable to temperate climates. They are also known for a higher risk of gastric torsion, entropion, and arthritis. With training, Canadian Inuit Dogs can be loyal and affectionate to their human companions. They are not, however, recommended for households with children.
The Canadian Inuit Dog can cost $8,750.
Rottweiler
Loyal and obedient, Rottweilers make great additions to families if they receive training and socialization. Muscular and imposing, they are affectional to their owners and are highly intelligent.
Although not initially incredibly pricey to purchase, Rottweilers become more expensive throughout their life due to their pronation to several health issues, including certain diseases and cancers. Additionally, they are known for joint issues.
Factoring in the cost of medical expenses, Rottweilers can cost an estimated $9,000.
Azawakh
Newly recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Azawakh originated in the Azawakh Valley in the Sahara desert. Regal with a lean stature, this breed typically does well in warmer climates. As a breed used for hunting, the Azawakh is athletic and requires daily exercise. They have few hereditary conditions and recover quickly from injuries. However, they do possess a risk for epilepsy.
With a high quality of life, Azawakh’s average lifespan is 12-15 years. Buying an Azawakh from a breeder can cost pet owners $9,500.
Tibetan Mastiff
Massive in size, Tibetan Mastiffs can reach upwards of 150 pounds. Originally bred for protecting livestock from predators, Tibetan Mastiffs are protective and loyal. While physically impressive in stature, they are gentle with their human companions and can be very easygoing.
Tibetan Mastiffs are disposed to conditions such as hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Purchasing this type of dog from a breeder can cost owners as much as $10,000.
Chow Chow
One of the oldest and rarest breeds, the Chow Chow originated in China. They can be difficult to train, aloof, and suspicious of strangers. Although they can be reserved, Chow Chows are very loving with their family members. They are incredibly dignified with a large, beautiful mane.
According to the AKC, health issues for Chow Chows can include eyelid entropion, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, and thyroid conditions. This breed can cost owners upwards of $11,000.
Löwchen
Originally from France, the Löwchen has been a favorite of Europeans for more than half a millennia. Playful, outgoing, and active, enthusiasts value this breed for its confidence and compatibility with children. This breed is incredibly rare, with only 300 registered dogs worldwide.
While the price tag upfront sits around $12,000, the Löwchen is not prone to many health issues. The average life expectancy for this breed is 13-15 years.
Samoyed
The Samoyed takes first place for the most expensive dog breed and can cost dog owners around $14,000. Loving and eager to please, the Samoyed is a gentle family pet. Recognized for their fluffy white coats, Samoyeds shed a lot.
Adding to the upfront cost, Samoyeds are prone to various health conditions such as corneal dystrophy, cardiac disorders, and autoimmune conditions.
Consider rescuing your next pet
Although these may be the most expensive dog breeds, many still find their way into shelters and rescues. If you’re looking for a particular type of dog, be sure to check out breed-specific rescue organizations before purchasing from a breeder. Choosing to adopt rather than shop can save a life.
It is also important to consider financial costs throughout your dog’s life when deciding what kind of pup is right for you.
Estimated dog prices provided by Prudent Pet Insurance.
