Ready to be a pet parent, but the idea of bringing your dream dog home makes you look at your wallet? It’s the right thing to look at the financial aspect of being a dog owner first, as all doggos have costs and needs that should align with your finances.
Not all dogs are light on the wallet; some breeds have high acquisition costs, which means you’d better be ready before you visit the rescue center or a breeder. Costs can depend on a lot of things, like how much it takes to breed a dog, their special grooming needs, and healthcare demands.
So, if you’re wondering the dog breed you’ve been getting the itch to adopt falls under your budget, and whether the investment is worth it, this article will help you make a well-informed decision.
Notable Dog Breeds with High Acquisition Costs
1. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a wonderful guard dog for people who prefer independent and intelligent dogs. With a thick double coat that has its own grooming costs, this doggo’s acquisition cost can make you think twice.
Majestic but agile, no wonder this canine is one of the most expensive dog breeds. Apart from its physical traits, what makes these dogs expensive is their being a rare breed, as they were originally bred in Tibet from predators.
Tibetan Mastiffs also demand a fair amount of professional training; they are quick learners but like to think for themselves.
Their health issues include hip dysplasia and eye and thyroid disease, so you’d better be ready to get them evaluated once in a while.
2. Samoyed
Samoyeds are one of the most loved dogs with their fuzzy white coats and their adaptable temperament. This herding breed’s price tag can take you by surprise, as they are one of the most costly doggos.
With a high demand, no wonder the Samoyed is an expensive breed. Another factor behind high prices is their rarity and breeding costs.
If you are willing to make the investment, this doggo’s definitely worth it. Bred to work in cold regions (as per AKC), Samoyeds are gentle dogs and very friendly with children and adults alike.
Early socialization training helps them learn and follow cues and commands perfectly. These doggos shed a lot, so daily brushing is an important ritual in keeping their gorgeous coat clean.
They are generally a healthy breed, but getting pet insurance is a good idea since they’re prone to some genetic illnesses like all breeds.
3. Chow Chow
One of the oldest and rarest breeds, Chow Chow comes with a high acquisition cost, which reflects how in demand it is. With a history that dates back to the Chinese Han Dynasty, this doggo is still sought after as a companion by many dog lovers.
The breed is uncommon in many regions, and its distinctive look, such as the lion-like mane and blue-black tongue, makes it highly sought after, increasing its price.
Chow Chows have a history working as guardians and hunting dogs, and possess an aloof and independent nature. These traits demand expert training and an experienced owner, hence the high prices.
They make good family dogs if given early training, but are better suited for homes with older kids, as per PetMD.
4. Rottweiler
Stocky and hard working, the Rottweiler is a breed in quite demand, which makes it one of the most expensive dogs. For ages, these dogs have helped butchers on expeditions, driving away thieves and predators. With its eye-catching, sleek black coat with rust markings, it’s one of the most desired companions for experienced pet parents.
Rottweilers are one of the smartest dog breeds, but need an experienced and patient hand to train them. These large dogs need a lot of daily exercise and make amazing watchdogs due to their sharp instincts and determination.
With all these wonderful traits, they are quite high on the price side; if you’re ready to bring a Rottie home, make sure to find a reputable breeder.
Adopting your pup is just the beginning; taking care of your Rottie also requires you to watch your wallet. From timely vet visits to pet food that keeps this strong dog in its best form, make sure to analyze all expenses. WebMD recommends at least two meals per day for this breed.
5. English Bulldog
Very few dog lovers aren’t acquainted with the loving and adaptable English Bulldogs. Amazing family pets and wonderful apartment dogs, English Bulldogs are always in high demand. These pooches come with distinct physical features, aka, their flat faces and stubby little bodies, which means breeding them requires quite an effort.
Apart from breeding, what makes these pups expensive is their special healthcare needs. As brachycephalic dogs, they are prone to some problems, such as breathing issues. Their wrinkly faces also need to be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.
If you can spend money and also time on these doggos, they’re one of the most loving companions that can live in different kinds of environments.
6. Akita
Akita is a gorgeous Japanese breed popular for its foxlike features and its strong personality. Originally used as hunting dogs as well as police dogs, they’re now one of the most common breeds adopted as companions.
If you’re stunned by not only Akita’s beauty, but also its hefty price tag, we get you! As a dog with not only a charming, thick double coat suited for cold environments, but an alert and loyal nature sought after by dog lovers, the Akita comes with a high acquisition cost.
Apart from the initial purchase price, like all doggos, Akitas also need some investment in their health checkups, grooming, and nutrition.
With generally good health and an average life expectancy of around 10-14 years, as per Britannica, Akitas are prone to some health issues like joint issues, gastric dilation volvulus, and hypothyroidism.
7. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound is a raggedy and whimsical-looking breed with a calm temperament, and one of the tallest American Kennel Club breeds. They make wonderful companions and family dogs due to their friendly and serene nature, despite their imposing appearance.
These pups enjoy regular exercise, which also helps them stay healthy; they do have a strong prey drive, which means they should be on leash when taken outdoors.
Irish Wolfhound is a rare breed with a prestigious lineage, which contributes to it being an expensive dog. Its grooming needs and vet bills are also factors to consider before deciding to bring this particular breed home.
If you’ve made up your mind to open your heart and wallet for this pup, have faith, as its compassionate nature makes it cherish human nature. No wonder it’s often employed as a therapy dog.
8. Dogo Argentino
A dog’s loyalty is one of its most important traits, which adds to its value and demand (and cost). This is the case of the Dogo Argentino, a breed with many merits, including its alert, loyal, and loving temperament.
Best suited for experienced owners, the Dogo Argentino needs early socialization and obedience training. They were originally bred as fighting dogs as well as for big game hunting. Regular physical and mental stimulation is very important in keeping these dogs in a good mood.
Other than its healthcare needs, the Dogo Argentino needs expert training and a good breeder who can breed this rare dog properly. All of it makes it an expensive dog, though its fanciers would swear it’s totally worth it.
Though they’re normally nice to strangers and get along well with all family members, careful consideration is required when introducing them to a household with other pets.
9. Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent and affectionate dog breed, also known as the “Blushing Dog of Malta”. This lean and elegant breed is a rare one that needs a hefty amount of investment from the breeders. Another factor that makes it an expensive dog breed is its recent increasing popularity with dog lovers.
Originally bred to course small game, nowadays Pharaoh Hounds make adaptable and gentle house pets. Their faces appear to be “smiling” when they’re in a good mood (hence the title of “Blushing Dogs”).
Despite being eager to please doggos, Pharaoh Hounds have a mind of their own and don’t always listen to you. Their instincts to “run” can get triggered into making them take a leap; keeping them on a leash is a good idea when it comes to keeping them safe.
As they need regular exercise, giving them enough space to run daily will keep them in a better spirit.
Conclusion
While these dogs come with a high acquisition cost, pet ownership is never free. It’s important to analyze your finances and adopt your loyal companion accordingly, so you have the resources to take care of them.
