Back in the days, mankind had desires of having luxury cars, branded clothes, bags, and perfumes. That would define their class. With the revolution, the mindsets evolved. And the elite class had the addition of owning the most expensive dog breeds.
And with that desire comes its own share of responsibilities, such as pet insurance, vet bills, and grooming needs, etc.
What satisfaction does owning an expensive dog bring? Well, this question pops into an ordinary man’s mind many times. But only dog owners can address this question properly. Whether you decide to purchase a pet or go for pet adoption, both require equal attention.
Moving forward, dogs can be expensive in accordance with their needs. Just like human beings, if their needs are ignored, it can affect their behavior. So make sure you purchase a dog from reputable breeders.
There are certain ways in which dogs can be expensive, apart from the breeding costs. From size to health condition to training to grooming, etc. This guide will walk you through the seven most expensive dog breeds that can leave your jaw on the floor at the end of the month.
Prestigious Dog Breeds & The Costs of Ownership
1. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a highly expensive dog breed known as the king of fluffy giants. The breed originated from Tibet, and it has worked alongside humans to guard livestock and property. They know how to perform their roles in a proper manner, alongside enjoying life as a companion.
Tibetan Mastiff has a massive size and is a big, fluffy, and soft dog. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 2006. Another noticeable factor that makes it expensive is that it’s rare. It has a majestic mane around the head that resembles that of a lion; no other breed matches the appearance of the Tibetan.
Tibetan Mastiffs are also expensive because of their popularity in dog shows like Crufts. Again, the demand increases the price tag automatically. Lastly, the maintenance cost for Tibetan is high, not just because of its fluffy body but because of its massive size.
Average Cost: $2200—$5000
2. Samoyed
Like the Tibetan Mastiff, the Samoyed is also one of the priciest dog breeds because of its rarity and grooming costs that add to the cost of ownership. The Samoyed was originally bred in the northwestern part of Siberia.
They were used to pull sleds in the snowy areas. They are friendly and adorable, rather than being aggressive, and like to have a lot of play time.
Their fur works like wool. The size of a Samoyed is medium, but grooming needs cost a lot because of the fluffy coat and the tough training that it requires.
Average Cost: $2000 – $19,000
3. Lowchen
The Lowchen, also known as the Little Lion Dog, is a rare and prestigious toy breed celebrated for its elegant appearance and lively personality.
Lowchen is expensive because of its unique appearance, rarity, and size of a small toy dog. It has a playful nature and has a thick coat that covers its entire face.
Lowchen is a high-maintenance breed. Owning a Löwchen involves a higher financial commitment due to its rarity. The initial purchase price is typically premium, especially from reputable breeders.
Grooming is one of the main ongoing expenses, as the breed’s long, flowing coat requires frequent brushing and regular professional grooming to maintain its signature look. Quality nutrition, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and preventive health treatments add to long-term costs.
Average Cost: $7000 – $12,000
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a truly prestigious dog breed, admired for its regal appearance, lion-like mane, and rare blue-black tongue. Originating in China, it is one of the oldest luxurious breeds known for its small size and majestic mane.
It needs to be groomed regularly to maintain hygiene. Because in this breed, eye problems like cataracts and hip dysplasia are common.
If you plan to own a Chow Chow, then keep yourself prepared for lifelong expenses of food, treats, vet bills, and health conditions. This breed is stubborn, so it might get difficult for you to train them.
Owning a Chow Chow requires both financial commitment and dedicated care. The initial purchase price can be high, especially for well-bred puppies with strong lineage. Grooming is one of the major ongoing expenses, as the breed’s thick double coat needs regular brushing and occasional professional grooming to prevent matting.
Average Cost: $8000 – $10,000
5. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound originated from Malta and is known for hunting rabbits. It has long ears that resemble the rabbit’s ears. This breed is expensive because of its unique appearance, lineage, and cultural significance. You can notice a bright pink color on its nose and ears when the Pharaoh Hound is happy. That makes it look even cuter.
They cannot tolerate cold temperatures because of their thin ears. They are prone to frostbite. So, they often have veterinary visits, which adds up to their ownership cost. This breed has a life expectancy of 11-14 years and is sensitive to stress.
Owning a Pharaoh Hound comes with notable financial responsibility. Due to its rarity and pedigree, the initial purchase price is typically high compared to more common breeds. Beyond acquisition, owners should budget for quality nutrition, as this active breed thrives on premium food to support its lean muscles and energy levels.
Average Cost: $7000 – $7,500.
6. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is known for its beauty, long hair, and physical appearance. The unique silky coat and being the oldest breed make it one of the most expensive dog breeds. They are calm, loyal, and subtle in nature. Training an Afghan Hound is challenging because, like other breeds, they are not pleased by food.
Afghan Hound requires extensive grooming because of its silky coat from time to time to keep them clean and away from contaminating any infections. Also, they require mental stimulation because they are prone to boredom. And moderate exercises keep them healthy. As they like cozy and quiet areas, they are well-suited to families where there are adults.
According to Forbes, the pet insurance companies use dog breeds as a tactic to set their own insurance rates. So, choose wisely among the breeds, because it can weigh a lot on your pocket.
Average Cost: $7000 – $14,000
7. Dogo Argentino
Are you surprised to find the Dogo Argentino in every category of dog breeds? Well, the question itself clarifies its high cost.
Dogo Argentino is a muscular and athletic dog known for its bulging muscles and big game hunting, as noted by Britannica. It has a white coat that is easy to handle and does not require frequent grooming. It is an intelligent and energetic dog that requires a lot of physical activities to keep its muscles strong and for mental stimulation.
Although the Dogo Argentino is a brave dog, it is prone to health conditions like hip dysplasia and ear infections. These medical treatments could add to their high cost.
Ongoing expenses include high-quality, protein-rich food to support its large, athletic body, along with routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and potential health screenings. Training is a major investment, as this breed needs early socialization, firm leadership, and professional obedience training to thrive.
Average Cost: $8000
Conclusion
Whether you own an ordinary dog or a prestigious dog, know that proper training and care are essential for them. Dogs that lack obedience training and socialization are more likely to develop behavioral problems in adulthood.
Lastly, owning a prestigious dog should not be a desire only. As it comes with the responsibility of taking equal care and fulfilling the lifelong expenses. These canines yearn for companionship and to have a family. So, it is our responsibility to take care of them and respect their loyalty towards mankind.
Are you afraid of the hefty price tags of these prestigious dogs? Remember that pet parenting is equally demanding as raising a child. And no dog is ranked as the world’s most expensive dog; all of them are rare and special breeds that require love, affection, and attention.
