Budget is one of the important things to consider while purchasing a new dog breed, especially if you are planning to adopt an expensive dog breed. It is true that some dog breeds cost more than others.
Various factors contribute to the high cost of certain breeds. Expensive dog breeds are usually high in demand or very rare. For some dogs, extra expenses are reflected in their initial purchase price, while others have high maintenance costs.
The price tag may also vary depending on your dog’s pedigree. If you want to trace your dog’s lineage back to several generations, you’ll need to pay some extra bucks. Prices can also vary depending on location and some other factors.
Have a look at these prestigious dog breeds and their high ownership costs.
Prestigious Dog Breeds & Their High Ownership Costs
1. Samoyed
Samoyeds, affectionately called Sammies, are known for their signature ‘Sammy smile.’ These friendly, fluffy, and social dogs were originally bred in Siberia. This highly sought-after dog breed is one of the most expensive dog breeds.
Samoyeds are also predisposed to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, Samoyed Hereditary Glomerulopathy (SHG), cardiac disorders, and some autoimmune diseases, so you may need to spend some money on vet bills.
Their thick coat needs frequent daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, so invest in a good-quality dog brush. Sammies are affectionate dogs who need plenty of exercise and are well-suited for active families who can provide adequate physical and mental stimulation.
2. Chow Chow
This ancient breed, hailing from China, is known for having a lion-like mane. These powerful canines have been working as guard dogs and hunting dogs for several decades. Chow Chows are big, fluffy dogs who come with a hefty price tag.
They have a high purchase price, and that does not include their grooming costs. Their dense double coat needs regular brushing using a slicker brush and a comb. We also recommend taking your Chow Chow for professional grooming every 8 to 12 weeks.
Chow Chows are prone to certain big dog health issues, such as hip dysplasia and thyroid problems. So, you may need to pay an arm and a leg in the name of vet bills. However, regular checkups can help reduce the risk of such diseases.
3. Tibetan Mastiff
Another breed sporting a lion-like mane, Tibetan Mastiffs are giant dogs hailing from the Himalayan mountains. They were originally bred to guard livestock against furious predators. The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient and rare breed.
This may be the reason why they are one of the priciest dog breeds. Typically a status symbol in China, purebred dogs may coast upto $2,500 to $10,000. Tibetan Mastiffs have an incredibly loyal and affectionate nature, but are aloof towards strangers.
Their thick double coat requires weekly brushing using a slicker brush to keep it looking clean. According to the American Kennel Club, the Tibetan Mastiff is a generally healthy dog breed. Reputed breeders search their stock for conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia and eye anomalies.
4. Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hound is another expensive dog breed loved by many dog enthusiasts. This popular ‘blushing do’ is capable of navigating promising terrain. Originally bred for hunting small game, these sleek and athletic pups belong to a rare breed.
Their rarity, combined with their striking amber colored coat, makes them an expensive dog breed. Pharaoh Hounds are very intelligent dogs, sensitive to stress. Stress can lead to severe digestive and neurotic issues, which may lead to higher vet bills.
Pharaoh Hounds are loving and good-natured dogs who get along nicely with children. They are extremely playful and love getting engaged in activity every day, explains PetMD. Pharaoh Hounds have an independent nature, so they need patient and consistent training.
5. Rottweiler
Rottweiler is a powerful and agile dog breed, known for its protective instincts. Purebred dogs from top bloodlines may cost around $1,500 to $9,000. These muscular dogs were originally bred to herd cattle and pull carts.
Large dogs require more food, so prepare yourself to spend on your dog’s dietary requirements. Rottweilers are also susceptible to certain health issues, which can lead to high vet bills. These expensive dogs, however, have minimal grooming requirements.
Weekly brushing using a firm rubber brush helps distribute skin oils and remove dead hair. Rotties have earned reoutation as aggressive dogs, but they are incredibly loyal and playful with their owners. They need plenty of exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
6. French Bulldog
Also known as clowns of the dog world, French Bulldogs have an irresistibly charming personality. These wonderful lap dogs are one of the expensive dog breeds. Like English Bulldogs, Frenchies also require extra care and attention from breeders, which boosts the price.
French Bulldogs are brachycephalic, having flat faces, which means they are prone to certain respiratory issues. So, you need to prepare yourself for regular vet checkups. The most expensive types of Frenchies are the Fluffy French Bulldog.
Fluffy French Bulldogs inherit a recessive gene from both parents and may cost up to $15,000 to $35,000. Frenchies are wildly popular but usually have small litters. Their limited supply, coupled with high demand, means you need to pay an arm and a leg for one.
7. Bulldog
Bulldogs are quite popular due to their association with former UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill during World War II. These wrinkly dogs are known for being friendly and funny companions. Bulldogs are expensive due to their vulnerability to certain health issues.
They are generally healthy, but their flat faces make them prone to breathing issues. Bulldogs can get heat stroke if left out in hot and humid weather. Cherry eye and skin problems are commonly reported in bulldogs.
Another reason why Bulldogs have higher prices is that they are usually conceived through artificial insemination and delivered via Cesarean section. However, their loving and loyal personality is worth every penny.
8. Canadian Eskimo Dog
Canadian Eskimo Dogs are one of the rarest dog breeds in the world and are critically endangered. There are only a few registered members of this breed. It makes them one of the most expensive dog breeds out there.
A Canadian Eskimo Dog may cost up to $3,000 to $8,500. Having a unique and ancient lineage, the Canadian Eskimo dog is prone to several health issues, including entropion, gastric torsion, heat intolerance, and arthritis. Potential pet parents should prepare themselves for high vet bills.
Canadian Eskimo dogs were used by the Eskimo people for pulling sleds and helping them hunt. According to Hill’s Pet, they are highly pack-oriented. They are friendly to people but aggressive to dogs outside their pack.
9. Lowchen
Also known as ‘little lion dog,’ the Lowchen is one of the rare dog breeds. Their rarity makes them one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. Lowchens are quite outgoing, active, and playful, making them perfect ofr families and children.
That being said, Lowchens need constant attention from their humans and are unhappy when left alone for extended periods. Lowchens have a high purchase price, but fortunately, they are very healthy so you won’t go into debt paying for their health issues.
they also have surprisingly low grooming needs. Good brushing every few days is enough to kee p their coats healthy. Consider visiting a professional groomer every few weeks to get their hair trimmed into a ‘puppy cut.’
Conclusion
Some prestigious dog breeds are loved for their persoanlities, but have higher prices. Sometimes, breeds come with a high price tag due to their rarity or high demand. Some breeds have high purchase price while others are high maintenance.
Many expensive dogs have high grooming costs due to their luxurious coats. Others have high dietary costs due to their large size. Some of them are also prone to certain health concerns, which can lead to higher vet bills.
