According to the Pet Advocacy Network, the pet industry contributes hundreds of billions annually to the United States economy. Woof! That’s a lot of cash required for owning a dog. In the United States, pet ownership costs range from $1,600 to nearly $5000 per year. That cost can be even higher if dog parents own one of the most expensive dog breeds.
What is the most expensive dog in the world?
While many expensive dog breeds can have high price tags, none have surpassed the Tibetan Mastiff as the most expensive dog in the world. In 2014, a Tibetan Mastiff puppy fetched a staggering price of $1.95 million, setting a record as the most expensive puppy ever sold. The purchase evidently showcased the breed’s modern-day luxury status. Another Tibetan Mastiff named “Big Splash” sold for a whopping $1.5 million in 2011.
What is the most expensive dog breed?
Unsurprisingly, the Tibetan Mastiff is the most expensive dog breed, with other Mastiff breeds catching a similar pretty penny. While now coveted as a designer dog, farmers first depended on the breed to guard livestock from predators for thousands of years. Imposing and protective, these giant fluffy dogs can reach over 150 pounds. While physically impressive, they are gentle with their human companions and are known for being very easygoing. Unfortunately, Tibetan Mastiffs are disposed to conditions such as hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism.
How much does the most expensive dog breed cost?
Outside the extraordinarily rare cases, how much is the most expensive dog? Typically, the price of a Tibetan Mastiff puppy from a reputable breeder may cost potential owners anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000.
What are the other most expensive dog breeds?
Many factors 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, pet insurance, and additional training. We’ve rounded up the most expensive dog breeds.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an elegant, ancient dog breed with a noble appearance. These silky dogs aren’t commonly spotted but never fail to catch attention with their striking appearance. Aside from their physical attributes and dramatic flair, Afghan Hounds are known for their comical personalities. As a breed with extensive grooming needs, these graceful dogs require daily brushing, as their long coats can easily become tangled. With an average lifespan of 10-14 years, Afghan Hounds 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 first used for hunting. An ancestor of the hounds used by the Pharaohs of Egypt, these majestic dogs are currently recognized as the national 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 family pets and can easily 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, the 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 and a distrust of strangers. As such, this dog breed may be too difficult for first-time dog owners. Owning a Dogo Argentino in the United Kingdom, New York City, and Colorado is illegal because of breed bans and breed-specific legislation.
Despite that, this dog breed can make a wonderful addition to a home with proper training. They sometimes even work as service dogs and in search and rescue efforts.
It is important to note that Dogo Argentinos possess a higher risk for hip dysplasia and deafness, which can add to the cost of owning this breed.
The Dogo Argentino price is around $8,000.
Canadian Inuit Dog
The Canadian Inuit Dog or Canadian Eskimo Dog is an indigenous 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, only an estimated 300 dogs of this breed remained. 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 highly intelligent and affectionate to their owners. 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
Recently 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 dog 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 reputable breeder can cost pet owners $9,500.
Chow Chow
One of the oldest dog breeds, the Chow Chow originated in China. They can be difficult to train, aloof, and suspicious of strangers. Although naturally reserved, Chow Chows are very loving with their family members. They are incredibly dignified with a large, beautiful mane. Health issues for Chow Chows include eyelid entropion, hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, and thyroid conditions.
Purchasing a Chow Chow puppy from a reputable breeder can cost owners upwards of $11,000.
Löwchen
Originally from France, the Löwchen has been a favorite of Europeans for more than half a millennium. Breed enthusiasts value this energetic pup for their confidence and compatibility with children. This breed is also incredibly rare, with only 300 registered dogs worldwide. These little dogs have a long life expectancy because they are not prone to many health issues. The average lifespan for this breed is 13-15 years.
The upfront price for a Löwchen puppy is around $12,000.
Samoyed
The Samoyed ranks high on the list as one of the most expensive dog breeds, costing dog owners around $14,000. Loving and eager to please, the Samoyed is a gentle family pet who is good with kids. 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.
Notable breed mention: Fluffy French Bulldog
While not on the most expensive breed list, an honorable mention goes to the expensive Fluffy French Bulldog, also simply known as the Fluffy Frenchie. Because of a genetic mutation, these French Bulldogs are longhaired — and extra cute as a result. Thanks to the rising popularity of an already trendy breed, Fluffy Frenchie puppies can easily reach prices of $20,000.
Most expensive dog breeds to insure
Beyond the upfront pricetag, remember that some breeds can cost you more monthly when it comes to pet insurance. Generally speaking, pet insurance companies may charge higher premiums because of a certain breed’s predisposition to health conditions. Additionally, dogs with a reputation for being more difficult to socialize or prone to conflicts with other dogs may also be assessed a higher premium. Several of the priciest breeds to insure include the Saint Bernard, Boerboel, and Neapolitan Mastiff. Moreover, these are just a few of the dogs on the list of the most expensive dog breeds to insure.
What are the cheapest dog breeds?
Adopting or rescuing a dog will always be the cheapest option. Since many shelters are overcrowded and resorting to euthanasia, rescue organizations are covering fees to incentivize adoption. This means you can bring home a puppy or dog from the shelter with vaccinations and spaying/neutering included at no additional cost. Even if adoption fees are not covered, you’ll still pay less than purchasing from a reputable breeder. Adoption fees generally range from $50 to $500, depending on the shelter. Shelters dedicated to purebreds usually have a higher adoption fee, whereas fees at county animal shelters are much lower.
When considering the cheapest dog breeds beyond the upfront costs, you’ll still want to consider the overall cost of care requirements. Pet ownership has many unavoidable costs and even a few surprise ones. That said, there are lists of the cheapest dog breeds to maintain for pet owners looking to spend their hard-earned cash on vet care instead of on breeding expenses. Of the breeds which won’t break the bank, these pups rank highly:
Chihuahua
Small and spunky, Chihuahuas are known for big personalities and lengthy lifespans. Since they are not prone to many medical conditions, you likely won’t visit the vet for more than ordinary checkups. You’ll also save on your monthly food budget because, as their size would indicate, they don’t eat too much.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Blue Heeler, also known as the Australian Cattle Dog, is one of the most affordable dog breeds to maintain due to their hardy nature and few predispositions to medical conditions. If you decide to adopt one of these dogs, ensure you can provide them with adequate exercise. Blue Heelers are energetic dogs that love to run, and you’ll want to make sure they get ample opportunities to expend their energy, allowing them to be their happiest and most fulfilled selves!
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the most affordable dog breeds to maintain, thanks to their good health and minimal care needs. While primarily recognized as beloved companion animals, especially due to their rising popularity influenced by Queen Elizabeth II, these little dogs were originally bred for herding and working purposes. As a result, they are quite robust and hardy pups!
Puppies for sale? Choose adoption!
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, even the most pricey breeds, look for 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.
It probably goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: Never purchase a puppy from a puppy mill. Trending and designer breeds are particularly susceptible to scams, animal cruelty, and inhumane breeding conditions. Always do your research when looking for a reputable breeder.
Estimated dog prices are provided by Prudent Pet Insurance.
