Diamonds may be rare, but some extremely expensive dog breeds can easily outshine them in both charm and cost. While their average price might drain your wallet, their affectionate nature, gentle demeanor, and royal looks keep owners hooked.
These purebred dogs often come from reputable breeders, require regular grooming, and face health issues like hip dysplasia or cardiac disorders, making the ongoing costs relatively high. But let’s face it, when it comes to love, logic tends to lose.
In this article, we’ll explore loyal dog breeds with steady temperaments that may come with a high cost, but give priceless companionship, emotional investment, and a whole lot of sweet, slobbery love
Extremely Expensive Dog Breeds, But We Still Love Them
1. French Bulldog – $1,500 to $8,000
This little pooch might be small in size, but it is the one with a big personality and a big price tag. Literally, it is a one-of-a-kind dog that is one of the most popular dogs. This goofy clown has a square head, a flat face, and erect bat ears.
Now, here things get pricey. Astonishingly, Frenchies often can’t breed naturally due to their physical structure. Therefore, artificial insemination is required for successful breeding. Female Frenchies need a C-section for safe delivery of puppies. All of these add up to sky-high breeding costs.
And then comes their crazy demand. As mentioned above, French Bulldogs are the most popular and highly demanded dogs in America. Celebrities love them, families adore them, and this popularity makes their prices reach the sky.
2. Samoyed – $4,000 and $8,000
It is a medium-sized, beautiful dog that Samoyede people of northwestern Siberia once highly valued. This wonderful dog was used for hunting, hauling sheds, and transportation. You know it is also called Sammy Smile due to its upturned mouth.
According to the AKC, Samoyeds are the smiling sled dogs that were bred for hard work in the world’s coldest locales with temperatures as low as minus-60 degrees.
It is also among the most expensive dogs, and one of the main reasons is their health-related issues. It can be prone to medical conditions like:
Glaucoma
Hip dysplasia
Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy
So, the vet bills can pile up fast and easily stretch your wallet. Moreover, reputable breeders also invest in health testing conditions, which also add to the cost of the breed.
And then food and other supplies also take advantage of you. It is not that dog that can live on basic kibble; they need good food. Additionally, their need for toys and other supplies also increases the ownership cost.
3. Biewer Terrier – $1,500 to $5,000
This small tri-color German dog might look like a cuddly stuffed toy, but keep in mind it is a very expensive dog breed. It is descended from the Yorkshire Terrier and commonly referred to as Biewer or just BT.
Let me tell you why we have added this small dog to this list. Firstly, it is a new breed, which is why it is rare. Remember, you won’t find Biewer on every corner. Breeders work hard and spend a handsome amount to maintain this cutie; therefore, they charge a high price for it. So, limited availability makes the price go high.
Another price-raising reason is the work it takes to bring out its signature look: tri-color coats with different patterns. These dogs are bred particularly for their beautiful coats and silky texture, and achieving the perfect combination requires careful breeding that costs time and money.
4. Portuguese Water Dog – $2,000 and $3,000
There is something that instantly makes you fall in love with these dogs. Portuguese Water Dog stands high on the affection ladder, and its intelligence makes it easier to train. Wikipedia states that it was first developed in Portugal for herding fish into a net.
Interestingly, these water dogs have hypoallergenic coats, meaning they barely shed. So many allergy sufferers prefer this dog because it makes them feel like a dream. So their high demand leads to price hikes.
You might have seen them on TV screens or magazine covers. Yes, the Obamas had two of these dogs. So this high-profile exposure made them popular, and popularity means more dollars.
5. Tibetan Mastiff – $1,500 to $5,000
Picture a dog with a thick lion-like mane, powerful body, and eyes that watch everything. That lion dog is none other than a Tibetan Mastiff. This ancient dog came from the Himalaya region of Tibet, where it was bred as a guardian dog to protect livestock. This is the most expensive dog, and there is a reason.
What really drives up their cost? It’s their guardian instinct and impressive appearance. These dogs aren’t just large, they are majestic. Naturally, they are wary of strangers and tend to protect family and property. It is the first choice of families seeking top-notch protection.
Then comes the import factor. Sometimes people tend to import these dogs, which can incur additional expenses related to transportation, legal fees, and other related costs.
6. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog – $3,000 to $4,000
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or simply Swissy, is a majestic and robust dog breed that is noted for strength, loyalty, and an affectionate nature. This beautiful dog came from the Swiss Alps, where it served as a working dog.
Now let’s see why they are costly dogs. These dogs are highly intelligent and often trained as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs. They are good at comforting people during their hard times. It takes time and effort to train them.
Moreover, these dogs do need quality food and proper vet care. That is why it also adds to the cost of raising these pets.
7. Irish Wolfhound – $3,000 to $4,000
Standing with an Irish Wolfhound is just like standing with a small horse. These gentle giants are one of the tallest dogs in the world. These keen sight-hounds were bred in Ireland, where they were used to hunt wolves.
Health Problems? Yes, it is the top concern that makes it a costly dog to own. PetMD states that the Irish Wolfhound has severe health conditions. Moreover, they also have a short life expectancy: 7 years. Means significant vet bills and long-term care costs.
What about their large size? That also costs you. Big dog means bigger everything: more food, more space, a big bed, and strong leashes.
8. Chow Chow – $1,000 to $4,000
With a lion-like mane, blue-black tongue, and a proud walk, the Chow Chow looks like it belongs in a palace. This ancient breed comes from China. You know that Chow Chows have genetics close to wolves.
Let’s find the behind-the-scenes costs associated with owning this dog. The prenatal and postnatal costs, these dogs require attentive care starting from their birth. You have to care for proper nutrition, vaccinations, and vet visits, all of which add to the overall expense.
The second factor is that gorgeous double coat. It is thick, fluffy, and glorious to look at, but to keep it looking good, you have to spend time and money. Regular grooming from professionals costs a handsome amount.
9. Newfoundland – $2,000 to $5,000
Are you looking for a gentle dog that is not only big but also has a big heart? Our pick is Newfoundland. It was bred in Canada to help fishermen, but this dog is a calm companion and incredibly good with kids.
Like a big size, you have to pay a big amount to adopt and keep this mate. It is also a highly demanding dog, so a reputable breeder invests a lot in their health testing. They can be prone to various health issues, so breeders do detailed screening to avoid any complications.
And what about food bills? Yes, these huge dogs are heavy eaters. They are active dogs that need to burn their energy. So, good quality food enriched with nutrition is required to support their well-being.
Conclusion
So, are these dogs pricey? Absolutely yes. But are they worth every penny? Listen, if you’re after loyalty, charm, and the kind of love that drools on your shoes, then yes. Although these expensive dog breeds might demand a heavy budget.
Still, in return, they offer priceless memories, cuddles that cure bad days, and the proud feeling of owning a truly special companion. Just make up your mind and be ready for some extra vet visits, grooming appointments, and an endless supply of treats.
