Dogs aren’t just pets—they’re family members we happily spoil. From gourmet treats to plush bedding and top-notch healthcare, we pour our love and resources into making their lives as joyful as possible. But for some breeds, that devotion comes with a much steeper price tag than most owners expect.
According to research, Americans spend an average of $1,675 per year caring for their dogs, and the cost only climbs when it comes to purebred pups—sometimes up to five times more than a mixed breed.
Add in the upfront purchase price, and suddenly owning one of these four-legged companions can become a serious investment.
Depending on where you live, a dog’s pedigree, and even their parents’ show history, the price of bringing home a prized pup can soar well beyond $4,000. Curious to see which breeds are worth their weight in gold? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most expensive-to-own dogs in the world.
This article offers an in-depth look at the most expensive dog breeds and what you need to know before you buy a pet for yourself.
Best Expensive To Own Dog Breeds You Must See
1. Tibetan Mastiff
Why This Breed Tops the Price Charts
Tibetan Mastiffs are among the most expensive dog breeds. Their exclusivity, combined with the costs of maintaining their dense double coat and providing enough space for them, makes them a true luxury breed.
Add in medical care, grooming, and specialized diets, and you’ll quickly see why these pups are considered a heavy financial investment.
Personality & Temperament Traits
An ancient guardian breed from Tibet, the Tibetan Mastiff has been protecting monasteries and livestock for thousands of years, according to WebMD.
Once considered a sacred protector, its rarity and status symbol value have made it one of the world’s most expensive dog breeds. Though naturally aloof, Tibetan Mastiffs are deeply devoted to their families.
Exercise & Lifestyle Needs
These dogs are not built for endurance sports, but they need plenty of space to roam freely. They enjoy nighttime activity, often patrolling their home as if it were their ancestral territory. Apartment living isn’t suitable for them—they thrive best in large, fenced yards with room to explore.
2. Samoyed
Why Samoyeds Are Expensive Companions
Samoyeds are among the priciest breeds to buy and maintain, often costing several thousand dollars just to bring one home. Their luxurious double-layered coat requires professional grooming, and their need for constant activity can quickly add to the overall cost, as per PetMD.
Add in their popularity and rarity outside of colder climates, and it’s easy to see why Samoyeds fall into the expensive-to-own category.
Training & Behavior Challenges
Smart and eager to learn, Samoyeds respond well to positive reinforcement training. However, they can also be stubborn and mischievous if not given enough structure. Early training and socialization are essential to channel their energy into good behavior.
Iconic Appearance That Turns Heads
Samoyeds are famous for their stunning all-white coats and their permanent smile. Their thick fur was designed to withstand Siberia’s brutal winters, making them best suited for cold climates. While their beauty is undeniable, keeping that coat in top condition requires constant brushing and care.
3. Lowchen
Why Lowchens Come With a High Price
The Löwchen means the “Little Lion Dog” in German, and is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, which explains its hefty price tag, as per the AKC.
With limited breeders and small litters, acquiring a Löwchen can cost several thousand dollars. Their rarity and historical status as a companion dog for European nobility make them highly sought after.
Personality & Temperament
Löwchens are cheerful, affectionate dog breeds, and thrive on human companionship. They are playful without being overly demanding, making them excellent lap dogs. Their loyalty and gentle nature mean they blend easily into family life.
Appearance & Grooming Needs
The Löwchen is easily recognizable thanks to its lion-like haircut, with a flowing mane and shaved hindquarters. Beneath the glamorous look is a sturdy, small breed with a soft, wavy coat. Grooming is essential, as their fur requires frequent brushing and professional trims.
4. Chow Chow
Why Chow Chows Are So Expensive
Originating from China, the Chow Chow is prized for its lion-like mane, unique blue-black tongue, and ancient heritage. Their regal appearance and rarity outside of Asia drive up the initial purchase cost. Grooming, healthcare, and training challenges also add to long-term expenses.
Temperament & Personality
Chow Chows are an independent, dignified, and sometimes aloof medium-sized dog breed, according to Hill’s Pet. They bond deeply with their family but are wary of strangers. Their protective nature makes them loyal companions, though they are not typically the cuddly and lovey-dovey type of dog.
Physical Appearance & Care
Known for their thick double coat and lion-like mane, Chow Chows are striking in appearance. Their heavy coats require regular grooming to avoid matting. Due to their flat faces, they can suffer from heat intolerance and breathing issues.
5. Pharaoh Hound
Why Pharaoh Hounds Cost So Much
The Pharaoh Hound, Malta’s national dog, is a rare breed with ancient roots that trace back thousands of years, according to Purina. Their rarity, sleek looks, and high demand among enthusiasts make them an expensive choice. Maintaining their athletic lifestyle and specialized diet also adds to their overall costs.
Personality & Temperament
Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate and playful with family while showing a sensitive, gentle nature. They are highly athletic and need plenty of exercise to stay content. Reserved with strangers, they rely heavily on early socialization to grow into well-balanced adults.
Training & Exercise
Pharaoh Hounds require a lot of daily exercise, including running and agility training. They respond well to positive training methods but may become bored with repetition. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity for this breed.
6. French Bulldog
Why French Bulldogs Are Pricey
French Bulldogs are one of the most expensive dog breeds, largely because of breeding difficulties. Their compact bodies make natural reproduction and birthing challenging, often requiring artificial insemination and C-sections, which increase costs.
Their popularity as a trendy companion further drives up prices.
Personality & Temperament
French Bulldogs are affectionate, playful, and thrive on human companionship. They adapt easily to apartment living but don’t tolerate being left alone for long periods, as they may develop separation anxiety. Their even temperament makes them especially good with children and other pets.
Appearance & Health Concerns
Compact and muscular, Frenchies are recognizable by their bat-like ears and short snouts. While charming, their brachycephalic faces can lead to breathing difficulties and overheating, requiring careful management.
7. Dogo Argentino
Why Dogo Argentinos Are Expensive
The Dogo Argentino is a rare, muscular dog breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting. Their rarity outside of South America, along with their impressive build, makes them costly to acquire. Training, healthcare, and insurance also add to their high ownership expenses.
Personality & Temperament
Fearless and protective, the Dogo Argentino is also affectionate and loyal with its family. They form strong bonds and thrive in households where they can be both guardians and companions. Their confident nature makes them best suited for experienced owners who can provide firm, fair leadership.
Training Challenges
Because of their strength and guarding instincts, Dogo Argentinos require consistent training and early socialization. Without proper guidance, they may become overly dominant or territorial. Positive reinforcement, patience, and experienced handling are essential for raising a well-balanced Dogo.
8. Rottweiler
Why Rottweilers Are Costly to Own
Rottweilers are not only expensive to purchase but also costly to maintain due to their size, diet, and potential medical needs. Their popularity as protective companions and working dogs also contributes to their high demand and price.
Temperament & Loyalty
Rottweilers are confident, intelligent, and deeply loyal to their families. They are affectionate with their owners but reserved with strangers, making them natural protectors. With the right training, they can be both gentle companions and dependable guardians.
Appearance & Strength
Rottweilers are muscular, medium-to-large dogs with a commanding presence. Their signature black-and-tan coat, broad chest, and strong frame highlight their power and agility.
Built for both endurance and strength, they carry themselves with confidence, making them equally admired as working dogs and respected family companions.
9. Canadian Eskimo Dog
Why Canadian Eskimo Dogs Are So Rare & Expensive
One of North America’s oldest dog breeds from the working group, the Canadian Eskimo Dog is rare and considered endangered, with only a few hundred remaining. Their rarity, coupled with their demanding lifestyle needs, makes them highly expensive to own.
Personality & Temperament
Canadian Eskimo Dogs are hardworking, intelligent, and highly energetic. They are deeply loyal to their families but may be independent and strong-willed. Best suited for active owners, they thrive in colder climates and love having a purpose, whether it’s pulling, running, or engaging in outdoor activities.
Exercise & Training
Originally bred for pulling sleds across vast Arctic terrain, they require high levels of daily physical activity to stay healthy and content. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they may become bored, restless, or destructive.
Because of their strength and independence, they need confident, experienced owners who can manage their strong working instincts and channel their energy productively.
Conclusion
Owning one of the most expensive dog breeds comes with both joy and responsibility. These expensive dog breeds often carry a hefty price tag because of their rarity, initial purchase price, or ongoing needs like veterinary care, grooming, and specialized food.
For many owners, the bond with such a particular breed makes the investment worthwhile.
The most expensive dog breeds often include purebred dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, English Bulldogs, or even rare types like the Pharaoh Hound and Tibetan Mastiff.
High demand, careful breeding from reputable breeders, and the need for pet insurance all contribute to their overall cost. Despite the higher price, these breeds remain among the most popular breeds worldwide.
Choosing a dog breed that is expensive to maintain means committing to complete care, regular exercise, and responsible pet ownership.
Whether adopted from a shelter or purchased from breeders, these dogs reward their families with loyal, affectionate, and playful personalities that no amount of money can truly measure.
