7 Prestigious Dog Breeds & the Costs of Ownership

7 Prestigious Dog Breeds & the Costs of Ownership

“All magic comes with a price, dearie,” says Rumpelstiltskin.

Some other wise folks say that love also comes with a hefty price, and the things we do for love and for feeling the giddiness in our hearts and butterflies in our stomachs. Not to mention the boundaries we are willing to cross and the daring risks we readily take for attaining peace and feeling fulfilled, are beyond one’s imagination.

But these prestigious dog breeds are definitely worth it, because they bring both unconditional love and sparkling magic in our lives. They happen to be the only creatures that love you more than they love themselves. Hence, no matter how high the cost, they make up for every pretty penny with their soothing cuddles, playful smiles, and oh so fluffy looks.

It’s quite funny, if you think about the endless amount of praise and honor dog lovers give to these pooches, which ends up in you standing in front of a breeder, only to know that the precious puppy you chose will get you bankrupt.

But we need to dwell on the true cost of dog ownership. Yes, it is highly rewarding, and nothing in the world can compare to the amount of joy that these puppies will bring to your life.

But if you are a newbie just stepping into the dog world to test the waters, then you should be aware of the price range your purebred, popular, or pedigree breed comes at, and all the things that are crucial to provide for your new puppy, which come after the initial cost of buying or adopting a puppy.

Prestigious Dog Breeds & the Costs of Ownership

1. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff

Let’s start with the most expensive dog breed in history, with a red Tibetan Mastiff named Big Splash going for some blingy zeros. Can you make a guess? 20k, 50k, no, it went for a mind-boggling 1.5 million. Even an average Tibetan Mastiff has an upfront cost and purchase price of $3000-$10000 or more, which is quite luxurious.

The Largest & the Most Expensive

But it isn’t any less impressive either; it’s majestic, it’s noble, and it’s a rarity outside of Asia. What more can you truly ask for? Myths say the Tibetan Mastiff has a lion’s blood running through its veins due to its imposing presence and puffy, regal lion-like mane.

But the kingly looks aren’t the only reason for its high cost. It is expensive because it is a purebred dog.

Tibetan Mastiff Profile

As mysterious as the High Himalayan Mountains

Continental Kennel Club says the Tibetan Mastiff is fearless, equipped with an incredibly protective nature, and has a high tolerance against oxygen-deprived areas. Due to a special gene that makes their body produce red blood cells, which in turn supply more oxygen throughout their bodies.

These Do Khyi with an Old Man’s Wise Eyes Patrol through the Night

Aloof with strangers and fiercely loyal to the ones they love, these Tibetan Mastiffs make exceptional bodyguards and livestock guard dogs against intruders and snarling predators like wolves and snow leopards.

Tibetan Mastiff Is An Ancient Guardian-01

According to The National News, this ancient breed is a status symbol for China’s wealthy, which has sent its price skyrocketing.

2. French Bulldog

French Bulldog

Coming in second but on this bougie list is none other than the most popular breed in America, aka the sassy Frenchie, going out in the range of $3000-$12000 if you choose to go for buying from a reputable breeder. But if you adopt these pooches from local shelters, they might cost you way less.

So, in demand and Chic that they became subject to Fad popularity

But do make sure to assess their health issues beforehand if you’re going to take in a surrendered puppy. Most of these abandoned dogs are given up due to their health problems or defects that happen due to irresponsible breeding practices.

French Bulldog Profile

The Ideal Urban Fella

Adorably wrinkled and uber efficient for the urban lifestyle, these Frenchies were a status symbol and fashion statement of the Parisian artistes and elites, and even to this day. These sassy and charismatic dogs garner so much attention and praise.

So Popular, these Drama Queens Reign

Whoever owns these mini versions of English Bulldogs says, ” Nobody can resist the charm of a well-bred short-legged French Bulldog.” They are the dream of many Americans and reached the top of the popularity rankings 3 years ago and are still reigning at the top due to their precious sweet snorts and snores.

Easy to manage and effortless to train, these playmates are, yes, one of the most expensive dog breeds but also the most rewarding one on the list.

3. Samoyed

Samoyed

The third most expensive dog breed happens to be the Sammy, with its never-fading puppy smile, with an upfront cost of $2500-$5000, which can sometimes even go up to $8000-$10000.

A Reindeer herding Russian dog with a Rare bloodline?

Lovey-dovey with humans of all ages and always spreading the contagious cheer and delight, the Sammies are classy, and they know it. But when it comes to adopting these expensive dog breeds, owning them is a whole different ball game.

Samoyed Profile

High maintenance Elegant hounds with a gentle and affectionate nature

Orvis mentions these absolutely magical pooches that seem to have escaped from a winter wonderland need ample exercise and a lot of mental stimulation. They get bored easily and also have hereditary health issues like eye problems and hip dysplasia, which can increase the vet bills.

A Furry Friend with Flowing Coats

But it’s true that those who love these heart-meltingly cute Samoyeds don’t dwell a lot on how much they cost but cherish them for their unique features and snowy exteriors.

Moreover, if you are a prospective owner who doesn’t have a lot of budget in hand and cannot afford a high purchase price, it is just the beginning of many more costs to come.

You can also get these expensive beauties from animal shelters for a low price and then save the money for more important things like specialized diets, pet insurance, professional grooming costs, and proper training.

Hey if you want to calculate the costs of dog ownership for your dream puppy than use our calculator for finding how much more you need to save for getting yourself a faithful fur baby.

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4. Rottweiler

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler stands fourth at an average price of $1500-$3000, but if you want a show-quality Rottweiler, the price will shoot up to a hefty 9000 bucks. But that ain’t nothing compared to the haughtiness and robust looks of this black and tan buff German dog.

Did anyone ask for an antique Roman Superhero?

And what did you expect this authentically German companion of Roman legions was going to be, cheap? Always looking for a job to do, these guards, drovers, and cattle herders are sharp, tireless, and always eager to learn.

Rottweiler Profile

A New Detective in the City? Sherlock Holmes is so going down!

In this modern day and age, you’ll find these bold and confident pooches serving in the police and military due to their intimidating looks. But there are several layers to this German hero with a Roman heritage.

A Funny private Investigator? Or a Goofy Bodyguard with an Incredible Sense of Humor?

For their loved ones, these dogs are uber-affectionate and often comical, and for the strangers they happen to be reserved, aloof, and daunting.

These Rotties are also strongheaded due to which they need consistent training and socialization from a very early age. But with the amount of skills and shades this pup is equipped with, makes all the more worth it.

5. Chow Chow

Chow Chow

This puffy fantasy stands fifth on the pedestal, costing around $1500-$4000, which isn’t too bad because you pay for its cuddly charm and an “I’m so not going to let you bask in the glory of my admiration” attitude at the same time.

Cool & Chic At the Same Time

This enormously fluffy Chinese breed deserves a bougie price tag because it is way better than an atrociously overpriced designer toy like a Labubu. It is plush in all the right places, comes with a cool dark-blue or purple tongue, and wears this famous grumpy expression wherever it goes.

Chow Chow Profile

An Ancient Gem from Imperial China

But if you are asking how this Chow Chow is all worth it, then let us tell you a Chow Chow is the oldest and rarest breed that originates from northern China and has the most intriguing temperament that is endearing and perplexing at once. It is also a pup who sports the attitude of a stylish cat.

A Wolf wrapped in Lion Fur

The AKC notes it is strong-willed, independent, aloof, and fastidious, has lion dog looks due to its chubby exterior, which includes a puffed-up chest and mane, and is difficult to tame and train dog that can only bloom under the leadership of an experienced handler.

But once a person unlocks its true potential, this versatile and adaptable pooch can be used for a myriad of things like hunting, herding, guarding, cart-pulling, and companionship.

6. Akita

Akita

This silent, and dignified fella is going to cost you around $1500-$6500, showing that faithfulness and loyalty in this world ain’t cheap. Not to mention that the cost of a purebred dog like an Akita is five times higher than that of a mutt or mixed dog.

All Relatives of Hachiko deserve Princess Treatment

Owners of this prestigious Japanese dog breed can expect annual expenses from $1300 to over $10000, which includes costs of food, grooming, and veterinary care. Because these pups won’t eat a low-quality kibble bulked up with fillers, they prefer princess treatment and proper care when it comes to all of their needs.

Akita Profile

Only the Best quality Balanced Diet for this Muscled Samurai

Did you know? These noble Akitas can also eat a raw diet, also known as BARF (biologically appropriate raw food), due to their big game hunting backgrounds, but it must be carefully balanced with the right amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and essential vitamins and minerals.

They like dippin’ their Toes in the Snow

Originally bred for hunting and guarding, these devoted watchdogs and protectors also prefer cold temperatures over a hot mess. Hence, you’d better be prepared to provide them with air-conditioning and snow whenever you can. Because that is their happy place.

These snow country dogs will also require consistent training due to their domineering and reserved tendencies. Hence, owning these silent champs isn’t a cakewalk.

7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This royal dog averages at $2500-$3500 or even more, but don’t be shocked to see such a low-price tag for such a regal puppy. It’s a steal for the amount of love, calm, and unpaid therapy it’s going to bring into your life.

High on the Bucks and High in Demand

If you are wondering why these affable puppies are so expensive, then it is primarily due to their extensive health testing and ethical breeding practices required to mitigate their common breed-specific health issues like mitral valve disease.

Moreover, it’s pretty much set that whenever something is low in supply, yet the demand for it is touching the sky, it will get a higher price tag. In the matter of these Cavaliers, their relatively small litter size and high demand as highly desirable companion dogs also contribute to the high price.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Profile

A Purebred dog from the Palaces

Moreover, investment in health clearances for parent dogs and quality care during pregnancies and puppyhood, and providing ongoing support, are all big contributors to the high prices of these royal fur babies.

Been here for Centuries this dog is an investment for your longevity.

Friendly, affectionate, and fun-loving, these eager-to-please dogs are not the oldest and rarest breeds, yet they are so popular and loved by people around the globe. Due to the royal connection, appearance in esteemed paintings, and roots in ancient England.

This toy-sized dog was the companion of Kings and is a statement piece that is not pompous or proud in carriage, yet still the most breathtakingly gorgeous and dignified pup you’ll ever see.

Conclusion

Unapologetically themselves and so iconic that these puppies are truly beautiful like diamonds in the sky. Thus, the price of these four-legged diamonds is literally comparable to the price of real diamonds present on this earth, which start from around $1900 and go up to $16000 for a 2-carat solitaire diamond.

But hey, if you have someone like Jeremiah Fisher and cannot for the life of you manage to splurge this type of money. You can go for some less expensive dog breeds that will give just the same satisfaction of owning a puppy, yet won’t break your bank.

Some more prestigious canines also include the Löwchen, Canadian Eskimo Dog, Afghan Hound, Pharaoh Hound or Rabbit Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, and English Bulldog, with initial costs ranging from thousands to potentially millions for rare lines.

Fenric Hale
Fenric Hale is a seasoned writer and a dedicated Animal Support Technician with years of experience caring for animals. Known for his calm, practical approach and steady patience, Fenric is always ready to lend a helping hand — whether he's giving medication, restocking supplies, or comforting a nervous pup during a vet visit. He has a natural connection with high-energy dogs and takes pride in turning tense, chaotic moments into calm and reassuring ones. At home, Fenric shares his days (and plenty of snacks) with his retired greyhound, Olive — his loyal shadow and favorite nap companion.