Most people will hesitate to admit but we all need expensive things at heart. The same things apply to choosing an expensive dog breed for yourself. But the question is, how far are you willing to go for them?
Some reputable breeders will cost you a lot more than regular animal shelters. According to some resources, Americans would have spent almost $157 billion on their pet adoption by the end of 2025. The loyalty and devotion these dogs bring are priceless.
This guide will introduce you to some popular breeds that are valued for their high costs, key traits, and rarity, which makes them highly sought after. Owning one of these nine most expensive dog breeds means you’ll be catching attention and admiration from every dog enthusiast. And after them, you might need to see the heavy bills on maintenance, too.
Pricy Dog Breeds: A Look at the Costliest Canines
1. Löwchen
Cost: $8000
This little lion dog has been extremely popular in Europe for more than 500 years. Löwchens are one of the rarest and most expensive dog breeds in the world. Small in size but big in personality, these affectionate companions are lively and fearless.
The elegant charm and unique appearance with lion-like mane contribute to its high market value, with prices ranging from $2500 to $8000.
Personality
The petite size cannot hold the bold and confident personality of this exceptional breed. Löwchens are playful and fun-loving in nature, and especially enjoy cuddling sessions with family. They are outgoing and social towards strangers, too, but things may go in another direction with other breeds.
Löwchens thrive on constant companionship and are ideal for owners who are willing to reciprocate their affection.
Maintenance
Their long, flowing hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty and avoid tangles.
Responsible breeders carefully preserve their bloodline due to the breed’s rarity, meaning healthcare and upkeep can be quite heavy on the pocket.
2. Chow Chow
Cost: $10,000
This medium-sized Chinese breed is among the oldest dog breeds. Chow Chows are instantly recognizable by their signature blue-black tongue and bear-like appearance. They are dignified, muscular, and serious-minded, as stated by the American Kennel Club. This ancient breed is highly protective and beautiful, totally worth every single penny!
Personality
Chow Chows are deeply devoted and protective of their family, often getting close to their favorite ones. According to VCA, they are naturally wary of strangers, which makes them reliable watchdogs or guard dogs too.
This ancient Chinese breed carries a dominant streak, which does not make it suitable for every dog parent. Owners appreciate their cat-like cleanliness and scrupulous habits.
Maintenance
Chow Chows have a thick double coat that requires frequent grooming, especially for rough-coated breeds.
Extra upkeep and care are necessary when they shed during the change of seasons.
3. Dogo Argentino
Cost: $8000
This striking white dog breed is impossible to ignore. Dogo Argentinos are one of the most muscular and athletic breeds, specifically built for big game hunting. Hailing from Argentina, they were primarily bred to hunt wild boars and pumas.
Its rarity and high demand due to strict breeding standards have pushed its price range to $8000.
Personality
One thing about this breed is that it’s got a brave and loyal heart. You’ll rarely see a courageous breed with a highly affectionate nature. While they may seem reserved around strangers, their gentle side can be revealed once an introduction is made.
Dogo Argentinos are devoted and loyal companions, but it is important to note that this companionship can only be favored for experienced owners.
Maintenance
Dogos need both physical and mental stimulation to ensure good manners in this healthy pup.
They are prone to certain health issues, so regular vet checks are necessary.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
Cost: $10,000
This fur-coated breed has long been a guardian since ancient times. The Tibetan Mastiff is a powerful breed; one might mistake this for a lion rather than a pet. They were originally bred as livestock guardians in the Himalaya. The price range may look less than that of other breeds, but few TMs with responsible breeding have been sold for more than a million.
Personality
Tibs may look intimidating at first, but they are the calmest of all. Owners note that these dogs usually show a gentle and mellow temper around family members, which makes them great housedogs. They have strong guarding instincts, which is why they’re always distrustful around outsiders.
Confident and self-reliant, Tibs make decisions on their own and show stubbornness in training sessions. However, early socialization can overcome this issue.
Maintenance
Tibs can have a predisposition to joint problems like hip dysplasia, so exercise should be controlled from a young age.
Their thick coats can be easily managed with weekly brushing and bathing, except during shedding season.
5. Samoyed
Cost: $12,000
The Samoyed is famous for its bright white, poofy coat and cheering “Sammy smile”. They were named after the tribes of Siberia. This breed was developed to live closely with their families and is happier to put in a bit of work, like herding, guarding, or pulling a sled. The aristocratic appearance of this breed comes with a hefty price tag of $10,000-12000.
Personality
Samoyeds are friendly and people-oriented dogs. They have a gentle nature with a kind, affectionate demeanor, which makes thema wonderful companion for children and active families.
They are highly adaptable and loyal, which kind of makes sense after years of working experience with humans. According to Hill’s Pet, Samoyeds thrive on human company, so they should not be left alone for a long period.
Maintenance
Samoyeds enjoy training sessions; they are moderately active but still need long walks and vigorous exercises to stay active.
With consistent training and regular care, they can be a beloved member of every family.
6. Rottweiler
Cost: $9000
The Rottweiler, or Rottie, is a large, muscular dog breed with a surprisingly confident personality. The elegant, short black-and-tan coat adds more elegance to its appearance. These all-purpose working dogs are highly praised for their strength, loyalty, and dependable nature.
Due to strong lineage and working ability, Well-bred Rottweilers are considered among the most popular and expensive dog breeds, with costs up to $9000.
Personality
Rottweilers were bred to perform a variety of tasks, including the protection role. While they are repudiated as tough and aggressive, they are actually very gentle and may even try to curl up in your lap despite their huge size.
Rotties can be aloof with strangers, but proper socialization helps them overcome behavioral issues. They are overall good family companions, but their strength and size might be too much for families with small kids.
Maintenance
Rottweilers are prone to certain hip and joint problems, cancer, and other health conditions, which can lead to high veterinary costs.
Basic grooming, daily exercise, and mental enrichment can ensure their well-being.
7. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Cost: $3450
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a famous tricolored breed known for its warm brown eyes and goofy personality. Hailing from the Swiss Alps, this breed was used for pulling carts and herding livestock. They are immensely strong and can be a man’s best friend, especially for athletic owners. Swissies love cold weather, and their diligence highly justifies the price tag along with it.
Personality
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are total sweethearts; they love to be a cuddle partner for their owners. They are strong-willed and can play multiple roles, such as therapy dogs, search-and-rescue missions, and herding dogs.
Swissies have eager to please, loyal, and protective nature, which makes them reliable watchdogs too. They are friendly in general but quite alert, and they can accept strangers if introduced properly.
Maintenance
Consistent training and socialization from puppyhood can ensure that this breed reaches its full potential.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have a short coat, so only minimal upkeep is required to ensure their health.
8. French Bulldog
Cost: $4250
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds you’ll ever hear about. They are playful, smart, and adaptable, but famous for their distinctive bat-like ears and friendly disposition. The reason for their preference as family pets is their adaptability from small city apartments to rural, countryside areas. The fame and attention from breeders have led to a rise in the cost of French Bulldogs.
Personality
Frenchies are family-oriented dogs who love to spend most of their time at home, playing and cuddling with family members.
PDSA notes that they were bred as companion dogs, so they may get anxious if you’re not around. They are lowkey people-pleasing dogs, but can show a stubborn streak at times. With the right training approach, they get along well with other animals and make new friends in their surroundings.
Maintenance
Frenchies are brachycephalic, which leads to many breathing issues. So, never over-exhaust them with intense exercise.
They can also be sensitive to the weather. Try to keep them in areas with moderate temperatures.
9. Portuguese Water Dog
Cost: $3500
Portuguese Water Dogs are athletic and intelligent breeds with a lot of playful energy. They were developed to work alongside fishermen on the coasts of Portugal. They are excellent swimmers (as the name says) and love doing any job their owners give them.
They are beloved all over the world for their friendly faces, gentle dispositions, and curly, fluffy coats. President Obama’s dogs, Bo and Sunny, brought this breed into the limelight.
Personality
Portuguese Water Dogs are lively and cheerful, often forming strong bonds with their families. They love being a part of home activities, and yes, happiest when you give them their quality time. They are highly intelligent and always willing to learn, managing every task efficiently.
This breed thrives with active owners where their physical and mental requirements are fully satisfied. These dogs can be a bit rambunctious and energetic at times.
Maintenance
Weekly brushing and trimming are necessary to maintain its thick, long coat from getting tangles.
Make sure they get plenty of exercise through walks, jogs, hikes, or agility courses.
Conclusion
Having one of these expensive dog breeds is not just about flexing the price. It’s about getting a lifelong companionship from these beautiful and devoted dogs. Each breed brings something unique to the table, which is why they’re different from other common breeds.
Pet ownership for these rarest breeds is very challenging, dog owners must also be prepared for ongoing expenses like high maintenance, grooming needs, training, and special care. Make sure to get a pet insurance first and always check for hereditary health issues of these canines.
For those willing to put in the effort, there are other purebred dogs like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Canadian Eskimo Dog, Pharaoh Hound, and Afghan Hound with responsible breeding practices. These breeds come with rare bloodlines, and the lifetime cost pays off when you are rewarded with a companion filled with love and faithfulness.
