When people hear “expensive dogs”, they picture a fancy-looking puppy with a celebrity vibe.
But, we assure you… the purchase price is only the opening scene.
Because some of the most expensive dog breeds are not paid for their looks only. You are paying for rarity, breeding costs, special care, serious grooming costs and sometimes, a long list of possible health issues that can turn into “WOW, these vet bills are personal now”.
And for owners who genuinely loved the idea of a rare dog breed (and can support it responsibly) these pups can be incredible, loyal and unforgettable.
So yeah, this list is about costly dog breeds for the discerning owners. The one where you choose a particular breed because it is perfect for your lifestyle and you are ready for the commitment.
Fun Fact!
Did you know?
A Tibetan Mastiff once sold in China for about $1.95 million. That was widely described as world’s most expensive dog at the time! That’s not a rumor. As per the Washington Post, this sale was reported in 2014 and happened at a luxury dog show.
Yep! A LITERAL million dollar dog.
Top 7 Costly Dog Breeds for the Discerning Owner
1. Tibetan Mastiff
Massive and regal.
The Tibetan Mastiff is one of those rarest breeds that feels more like a legend than a pet. It is famous for a lion like mane; and literal lion dog vibes. And, when this dog is well-bred and well-raised, it can b calm, devoted and seriously impressive.
But the high price tag for this large dog breed does not come due to the fluff alone. It comes from scarcity, lineage and how tricky responsible breeding can be. And don’t even get us started on purebred dogs.
When demand spikes, higher prices follow. And when people chase that hype, backyard breeders and puppy mills can jump in! BIG warning sign.
This dog needs space, structure and confident handling. Big yard, solid routine and people who respect boundaries.
As per Spot Pet Insurance, this is an expensive dog and the “lifetime cost” can amount for about $38,000 to $40,000. Yikes!
The initial purchase price can be high, sure, but the bigger deal is the dog’s lifetime: quality food, training and smart planning for pet insurance (because giant dogs don’t come with tiny vet bills).
Also, this dog breed is no for “let’s wing it” households.
2. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is elegant in that “model off duty” way. It is known as the ancient “blushing dog: of Malta and it was bred to course small game across tough terrain. A “rugged sprinting hound”, as American Kennel Club says.
But.. why does that matter for cost? Because it is not a mass market breed. It is not one of the most popular dog breeds, so fewer litters exist, which means fewer options, which means an average price that stays high.
This expensive dog thrives with families who love daily movement and mental stimulation. The purchase price can sting and upkeep us not a “cheap dog” life either. Training, enrichment and occasional specialty care add up. Their purchase cost is $7,000 to $7,500, and the lifetime cost could be as high as $15,000.
If you want a rare dog breed that is affectionate at home, and stunning in public, this one is rock solid.
3. Lowchen
The Lowchen is also called the “little lion dog” (and yep, you will see why as soon as you spot the traditional dog clip). The name literally points back to that “lion dog” identity and the breed has long had a reputation tied to wealthy companionship and rarity.
This is one of those expensive dog breeds where scarcity does the heavy lifting. Not many puppies. Not most reputable breeders. And lots of people wanting a small and unique companion.
Eve though, this is not one of those giant dogs, don’t underestimate the ongoing spend. That coat can mean real grooming effort and real grooming costs, mostly if you put that lion look.
It is the kind of breed that fits people who want a polished companion vibe, but still want a goofy little dog following them around from room to room. You will be paying purchase price in as much as $2,500 to $5,000.
Small body. Hefty price tag.
4. Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is a sturdy and versatile hunting dog breed with an ancient Italian background. This hunting dog is famous for being sociable, patient and a little stubborn (in a charming way).
So, why is this breed expensive? First, it is not common everywhere. Second, good lines matter a lot here; temperament, coat quality and health screening. Third, bigger dogs usually cost more to raise properly.
This is an expensive dog breed that does best with people who actually like being around their dog. Like, a lot. They bond hard.
Expect big food needs, training, and planning for potential health issues like joint concerns (yes, even things like hip dysplasia can show up in larger purebred dogs). Responsible breeders will screen which can raise the average price but it is worth it for long-term peace and your dog’s average life expectancy.
All in all, these dogs would cost you about $1,000 to $3,000 (pretty reasonable), but afterwards, the lifetime cost can amount to $10,000.
5. Samoyed
Samoyed dogs are famous for that bright “Sammy smiles” and they have got a double-layered thick coat that sheds and needs consistent brushing.
The Samoyed is a classic example of “This is an expensive dog because the upkeep is real”. Yes, the purchase price is usually high, as these white dogs are in high demand due to all that beauty. They can cost almost $4,000 to $8,000 in the initial purchase.
But the coat care, grooming tools and time commitment are what keep this breed in the “premium” category.
If you want one of the most expensive dog breeds that also acts like a giant marshmallow best friend, there you go. But be ready, grooming, seasonal shedding and a lifestyle that supports mental and physical exercise. Plus, you need to be mindful of the health conditions, like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Their life expectancy is usually around 12-14 years which is a long time to pay for grooming, quality food and surprise vet bills.
6. Canadian Eskimo Dog
The Canadian Eskimo Dog is a true working breed with deep roots in the Arctic life, and today, it is still considered as a rare dog breed with a small population, some estimates for registered purebred dogs sit around 300 or less, as per CBC. Far less than 20,000 dogs in the 1920s.
That kind of scarcity pushes the average price up fast. And not every household can meet the needs, which means fewer ethical breeding programs, which keeps numbers low.
This is an expensive dog breed in a very different way. It is not “cute luxury”. It is a serious working dog originally bred to be the sled dogs across North Alaska, their original homeland, as mentioned by American Kennel Club.
That’s why the price is high. Cold-weather comfort, structured exercise, training and planning ahead for the dog’s lifetime. Because if you under-exercise or under-stimulate this breed, you will feel it. Your furniture will feel it too.
And yes, plan for pet insurance and realistic vet bills because big athletic dogs can bring big costs. Highly valued at a maximum of $8,500. And lifetime costs are separate.
7. Azawakh
The Azawakh is a West African sighthound from the Sahel region (countries like Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso), known for elegance, endurance and a naturally lean build.
This is one of the expensive dog breeds mainly because it is uncommon and carefully managed in responsible circles.
Few litters. Special placement. Serious screening. And usually long-distance logistics.
This expensive dog is not for everyone. And that’s exactly why it stays rare. They bond deeply with their people and can be reserved with strangers. They do best with calm and confident owners who respect sensitivity and structure.
Health-wise, always be mindful of possible genetic diseases and other health issues that can affect purebred dogs and be realistic about the lifetime costs (food, training, and the occasional “why is this vet quote so high?” moment).
As per PetMD, an average puppy ownership would cost you around $2,500 to $5,000.
Conclusion
Rare pet ownership is expensive! Yes. And for all the boring reasons: rarity, ethical breeding (mixed breed dogs have it easy), proper care, and the reality that an expensive dog also comes with real-life health issues like chronic skin infections and ongoing costs.
If you want to be smart about it, focus less on hype and more on fit. Talk to reputable breeders, avoid puppy ills and don’t ignore basics like training, good food and planning for future vet bills.
Other dogs that are real expensive include: Greater Swiss Mountain dog, Chow Chows, Bernese Mountain dog, English Bulldog, French Bulldogs, Afghan Hound, Black Russian Terrier, etc.
And hey, if you are not trying to live the luxury purebred dog life with silky coats or the expensive lap dogs, there’s zero shame in loving mixed dogs from the same breeds or even picking shelter dogs from the least expensive dog breeds at animal shelters. Labrador Retriever and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are a bit on the low-end when it comes to lifetime costs.
Some of the best dogs on Earth are the ones who come home with you and immediately act like they have owned your couch forever.
