10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Buy and Why They Cost So Much

Care Cost
By Samira Patel

When it comes to choosing a furry friend, the cost can be as varied as the breeds themselves. Some dog breeds come with a hefty price tag, and there are several reasons for this. Factors like rarity, purity of pedigree, and specific physical or personality traits can drive up the price. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten of the most expensive dog breeds in the world, unraveling the reasons behind their high costs while offering insights into their unique characteristics.

Tibetan Mastiff

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The Tibetan Mastiff is known for its impressive size and luxurious fur. Originating from the Himalayas, this breed is not only rare but also carries an air of majesty. Owning a Tibetan Mastiff can cost upwards of $2,000 to $5,000, with some even reaching $10,000 due to their pedigree. They require extensive training and socialization.

These dogs are known to be protective and loyal, making them excellent guardians. However, their rarity and the cost of proper breeding contribute significantly to their price. People often buy them for their unique appearance and storied history.

Samoyed

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The Samoyed is famous for its friendly disposition and stunning white coat. Originating from Siberia, these dogs were bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds, making them strong and resilient. Samoyeds can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000.

Their thick fur requires regular grooming, adding to the maintenance cost. The high price is often attributed to their charming personality and appearance. Samoyeds are known for their ‘Sammy smile,’ which adds to their appeal, making them highly desirable pets for families looking for a cheerful companion.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are one of the oldest and rarest breeds, known for their lion-like mane and distinct blue-black tongue. Hailing from China, Chow Chows exhibit a dignified and aloof demeanor. Prices can range from $3,000 to over $8,500, driven by their rarity and unique characteristics.

These dogs are loyal and protective, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their grooming needs, combined with their independent nature, can make them a challenging pet for first-time owners. However, their majestic appearance and ancient lineage make them a sought-after breed.

Lowchen

© finnegan_the_lowchen

The Lowchen, also known as the ‘Little Lion Dog,’ is a rare breed that can cost between $5,000 and $8,000. Known for their distinctive lion cut, these dogs are full of character and charm. Originating from Europe, they were once a companion of nobility.

The Lowchen’s rarity is a primary factor in its high price. These playful and affectionate dogs require regular grooming to maintain their unique appearance. Despite their small size, they are known for their bold personality. Owning a Lowchen is like having a living piece of art in your home.

Rottweiler

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Rottweilers are known for their strength and intelligence. Originating from Germany, they were originally bred to herd livestock and pull carts. A well-bred Rottweiler can cost between $2,000 and $7,000, with champion bloodlines fetching even higher prices.

These dogs are loyal and protective, making them excellent guardians. However, their training and socialization are crucial to manage their strength and intelligence. The combination of their working capabilities and family-friendly disposition makes them a popular choice, but their pedigree and training needs contribute to their high cost.

Afghan Hound

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The Afghan Hound is renowned for its beauty and elegance, characterized by its long, silky hair. This breed hails from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, where they were used for hunting large prey. Afghan Hounds are priced between $3,000 and $7,000.

Their grooming needs are extensive, requiring frequent brushing to maintain their luxurious coat. Their independent nature requires patient training, adding to the overall cost of ownership. Despite their aloof demeanor, Afghan Hounds are affectionate with their families, and their unique appearance makes them a standout choice for dog lovers.

Pharaoh Hound

© sofia_ermilova

The Pharaoh Hound is a regal breed known for its sleek and athletic build. Often associated with ancient Egypt, these dogs are actually native to Malta. They are priced between $3,000 and $7,000 due to their rare lineage and unique appearance.

Known for their ability to ‘blush,’ where their noses and ears turn a rosy hue, Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate and intelligent. Their rarity and striking looks contribute to their high price. They make excellent companions for active families, as they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Dogo Argentino

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The Dogo Argentino is a muscular and powerful breed, known for its strength and courage. Originating from Argentina, these dogs were bred for big-game hunting. They range in price from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on their lineage.

This breed requires experienced handling due to its strong-willed nature. Training and socialization are crucial for a well-adjusted Dogo Argentino. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them excellent family guardians. The combination of their impressive physical attributes and specialized breeding contributes to their high cost.

Canadian Eskimo Dog

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The Canadian Eskimo Dog is one of North America’s oldest and rarest breeds. Known for their resilience and strength, they were traditionally used by the Inuit for sled pulling. Prices for this breed range from $3,000 to $6,000.

Their rarity is a key factor in their high cost, as there are very few purebreds left. These dogs are known for their loyalty and hardworking nature. They require ample exercise and cold climates to thrive. Owning a Canadian Eskimo Dog is like owning a piece of history, making them invaluable to enthusiasts.

Azawakh

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The Azawakh is a rare and ancient breed known for its elegance and speed. Originating from West Africa, these dogs were bred by the nomadic Tuareg people for hunting and guarding. Azawakhs can cost between $3,000 and $7,000.

Their rarity outside Africa adds to their price, along with their unique appearance and athletic abilities. These dogs are highly loyal to their families but tend to be reserved around strangers. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their regal bearing and historical significance make them a sought-after breed for those looking for something unique.