Ever meet a dog so rare you do a double-take?
Some dog breeds are pricey for a simple reason. You can’t just “find one.” You have to search, wait, and sometimes travel far. Fewer breeders. Fewer pups. More demand. And boom, the price climbs.
But why bother with that?
Because these dogs are not copy-paste pets. They come with real stories, unusual traits, and looks that stop people mid-sentence. And here’s the best part! Many of them are also amazing companions if you match their needs.
This blog will cover 7 rare and expensive dog breeds. Each one is different. Each one has its own kind of magic.
Let’s meet them.
Rare and Expensive Dog Breeds You Won’t Easily Find
1. Azawakh
The Azawakh is the kind of dog that looks like it was drawn with one clean line. Tall, slim, and fast, it is considered one of the most athletic dogs, known for its impressive speed and stamina. It comes from West Africa and was shaped by desert life.
The Azawakh is a rare breed from West Africa, known for its elegance and intelligence. That history shows in everything, from its alert eyes to its quiet confidence.
This breed can be expensive because it’s genuinely hard to find. There are fewer dogs, fewer litters, and fewer people breeding them well. According to the AKC, the Azawakh is gaining popularity outside its traditional region as more people discover this unique breed.
When a breed is rare and carefully protected, prices rise. Add in shipping, paperwork, and long wait lists, and it gets even worse, though, if you hoped for a quick pickup.
Azawakhs are deeply loyal to their people, but they are not instant besties with strangers. They can be loving at home and cool outside.
They also need smart handling. They are sensitive, and rough play is not their vibe. If you want a clingy, everyone’s-friend dog, this is not that.
Important note: What makes the Azawakh truly “Azawakh.”
Built for speed and stamina, with a lean, athletic frame
Often reserved with new people, but devoted to family
Needs early social time so they don’t turn too wary
Best with calm, gentle handling and clear routines
2. Finnish Spitz
If a fox and a little athlete had a puppy, you’d get the Finnish Spitz. With its fox-like appearance and lively energy, it’s bright, lively, and proud. In Finland, it’s basically a national treasure. But in many places, it’s still rare enough that people might ask, “What is that?” at the park.
One reason this breed can be expensive is simple scarcity. Fewer pups are available in some countries, and good breeders do not mass-produce them.
When supply is low, prices go up. But the bigger “cost” can be lifestyle. This dog needs activity, attention, and patience, or it can become noisy and bored fast.
And yes, this breed loves to bark. That’s not a flaw. It’s literally part of its job history. The Finnish Spitz was bred to signal and “announce” things during hunts, and was also used for hunting small game such as rabbits, showing its versatility as a hunting dog.
So if you live in an apartment with thin walls and grumpy neighbors, you may want to think twice. Sounds crazy, right? But some dogs are basically born to commentate.
Fun fact: The Finnish Spitz “talks.”
Famous for being vocal and alert
Playful and funny, with a cheeky streak; one of those mischievous dogs known for their energetic and sometimes unpredictable behavior
Can be great with kids when trained kindly
Needs daily walks and brain games to stay chill
3. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier looks like a sweet little lamb. Then it moves like a mini athlete. This breed has a curly coat, a unique head shape, and a surprisingly sporty build. People fall in love because it looks unusual, but it’s not just a pretty face.
Bedlingtons come in a variety of coat colors and markings, adding to their distinctive charm.
Bedlingtons can be pricey because they are not everywhere. They also tend to come with higher “total ownership” costs in some cases.
On average, the total cost of ownership and care for a Bedlington Terrier can be significant over its lifetime, which typically ranges from 12 to 16 years.
That can include health checks, grooming, and proper care. Even if the puppy price is not the highest on earth, the full package can add up.
Here’s the good part. Bedlingtons can fit nicely into many homes. They can be affectionate and fun, and many owners love their low-shedding coat.
But grooming matters. That adorable look does not maintain itself. If you want a dog that looks like a cloud, you’ll need to put in the work, or pay someone who will.
Why do people pay extra for Bedlington charm
Rare, recognizable “lamb-like” look
Athletic and energetic under that fluffy coat
Often a good fit for smaller homes with daily exercise
Coat care and trims are part of the deal
4. Lowchen
Lowchen means “little lion,” and once you see the classic haircut, you get it. This breed is rare, small, and full of personality. It’s also known as the ‘lion dog’ or ‘little lion dog’ due to its appearance and playful nature. It’s one of those dogs that can walk into a room and act like it owns the place. In a cute way. Mostly.
Lowchens can be expensive because they are uncommon and carefully bred. Fewer breeders means fewer puppies.
As per PetMD, the Lowchen is known for its rarity and typically costs around $12,000, making it one of the most expensive and rare dog breeds you won’t easily find.
And when demand stays steady, prices rise. Some lists place Lowchens among the pricier small breeds, especially when you’re searching for a well-bred puppy with health testing and strong lines. The high upfront cost can be a problem for some buyers, and in some cases, the investment could even lead to debt.
But wait, there’s more! The Lowchen also tends to be a people dog. It likes being near you. Not across the house. Near you. This breed thrives on company and enjoys being in social settings, making it a great choice for families or those who love to be surrounded by their pets.
If you want a small companion that feels like a happy shadow, this can be a great match. Just remember, small dogs still need training. Cute chaos is still chaos.
Important note: The “little lion” lifestyle
Rare breed, so wait lists are common
Social, cheerful, and often very cuddly
Grooming depends on the style you choose
Loves attention, so long, lonely days can be tough
5. Norwegian Lundehund
This one is the ultimate “what in the world” dog. The Norwegian Lundehund is rare and built differently. It was developed for hunting puffins along rocky cliffs in Norway.
That job needed a dog that could climb, twist, and squeeze into tight spots.
So the Lundehund has wild physical features. Extra toes are the headline. The breed is uniquely adapted for climbing cliffs, possessing six toes on each foot and extra flexible joints. It also has extreme flexibility, including joints that move in unusual ways.
Add ears that can fold closed, and you basically have a dog that feels like it was designed by a creative engineer.
This breed is rare because its history is narrow and its population was once very low. That makes it harder to find and often more expensive. And the costs can include specialized care.
Some Lundehunds are known for digestive issues, so good breeding and smart vet care matter a lot.
Did you know? The Lundehund is basically an acrobat
Often has extra toes that help with grip and climbing
Extremely flexible body for tight spaces
Rare outside its home region
Needs thoughtful breeding and careful health support
6. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound looks like royalty. Sleek body, warm coat color, sharp face, and a calm, confident vibe. Even the name sounds fancy. But this breed is mostly tied to Malta, where it’s known as a rabbit-hunting dog. That hunting history explains the speed and drive.
The Pharaoh Hound is also known for its intelligence and athleticism, and typically costs around $7,500.
As per Britannica, Pharaoh Hounds can be expensive because they are rare and not produced in large numbers. In many places, you might have to join a waiting list or travel to get one from a responsible breeder.
And because they’re athletic and sensitive, owners also invest in obedience training and safe spaces to run. Obedience is especially important for this intelligent and athletic dog to ensure good behavior and responsiveness.
Here’s the part that makes people obsessed. Pharaoh Hounds can “blush.” When excited or happy, their nose and ears can turn pinkish. It’s one of those moments that makes you laugh out loud.
Like, excuse me, why are you turning red? Dogs are ridiculous sometimes, and I mean that in the best way.
Why the Pharaoh Hound stands out
Rare breed with a strong hunting background
Athletic, fast, and very alert outdoors
Known for a “blushing” look when excited
Needs secure play areas and consistent training
7. Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
If you’ve never seen a Bergamasco, you will remember it forever. This is the dog with the “flocked” coat, which forms thick mats that look like natural dreadlocks.
The Bergamasco Shepherd is known for its unique, felted flock coat formed from three types of hair, giving it a distinctive variety in texture and appearance.
It’s not messy. It’s not neglect. It’s how the coat is meant to be, and it once helped protect the dog in harsh mountain weather.
Bergamascos can be expensive, partly because they are rare, and partly because good breeders are careful with them. You may not find one nearby. People sometimes travel to meet breeders or bring puppies in from far away. That alone can raise the total cost.
And here’s the best part! Once the coat forms properly, the grooming can be simpler than people expect. The coat is managed by separating the flocks, not constant brushing.
Beyond the hair, this breed is known for being loyal, steady, and watchful. It can be calm with family, but still protective.
The Bergamasco was traditionally used for herding livestock in mountainous regions, which explains its strong work ethic and alert temperament. Think “quiet security guard,” not “loud drama machine.”
Important note: The Bergamasco coat is a system, not a style
Rare, so finding a puppy can take time
Flocked coat needs correct early care and separation
Loyal and calm, with strong bonding to family
Often happiest with a job, even if it’s just “watching.”
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming of purebred dogs that turn heads, it helps to remember why these beautiful dogs are considered rare in the first place. These dogs possess an affectionate nature and a loyal temperament that makes them extremely loved.
Some of the most expensive dog breeds may include the Tibetan Mastiff, West African Sighthound, Chihuahua, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Chow Chow, Skye Terriers, the Swedish Vallhund, or even Beagles.
