Did you know that a Tibetan Mastiff puppy named “Big Splash” was sold for a jaw-dropping $1.95 million in China, making it the most expensive dog ever sold?1 The world of luxury dogs is filled with fascinating breeds that come with eye-watering price tags.
In recent years, the demand for purebred dogs has skyrocketed, leading to a surge in prices for certain breeds.2 Factors such as rarity, pedigree, and unique characteristics all contribute to the high costs associated with these exclusive pups.
Here are the 15 most expensive dog breeds in the canine world.
1. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff, hailing from the Himalayan mountains, is a majestic and imposing breed known for its massive size and lion-like appearance. These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand up to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Tibetan Mastiffs are fiercely loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs. They have a thick, double coat that allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Due to their rarity and the high demand for these noble dogs, Tibetan Mastiff puppies can cost anywhere from $2,000 to millions of dollars.
2. Samoyed
The Samoyed, originating from Siberia, is a stunning white-coated breed known for its signature “Samoyed smile.” These fluffy, friendly dogs were originally bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds in the frigid Siberian tundra. Samoyeds are medium-sized dogs, weighing between 35-65 pounds and standing 19-23.5 inches tall.
Samoyeds are not only beautiful but also intelligent and affectionate companions. However, their rarity and popularity come at a price. Samoyed puppies can cost up to $14,000. Additionally, their thick, white coats require regular grooming to maintain their stunning appearance.
3. Löwchen
The Löwchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” is a small but mighty breed that originated in Europe. These charming dogs have a long, silky coat that is often trimmed to resemble a lion’s mane. In 1973, the Löwchen was considered the rarest dog breed in the world, with only 65 registered dogs.
Löwchens are lively, affectionate, and adaptable dogs that make excellent companions. They require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their luxurious coats.
Due to their rarity, Löwchen puppies can cost up to $12,000.
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed from China, known for its lion-like appearance and distinctive blue-black tongue. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs have a thick, fluffy coat that comes in various colors, including red, black, blue, and cream. Chow Chows were once owned by Chinese royalty and were considered a symbol of wealth and status.
Chow Chows are independent, loyal, and protective of their families. They require regular grooming to maintain their dense double coats. Chow Chow puppies can cost up to $11,000, and their ownership often comes with additional expenses such as grooming and potential health issues like hip dysplasia and eyelid entropion.
5. Azawakh
The Azawakh is a sleek and elegant sighthound originating from West Africa. These tall, slender dogs were bred to hunt gazelles and other small game in the Sahara desert. Azawakhs have a short, fine coat that comes in various colors, including red, fawn, brindle, and parti-color.
Azawakhs are independent, loyal, and affectionate with their families. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Due to their rarity and unique appearance, Azawakh puppies can cost up to $9,500.
6. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a powerful and muscular breed that originated in Germany. These large, confident dogs were originally bred to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat. Rottweilers have a short, dense coat that is black with distinctive tan markings.
Rottweilers are loyal, protective, and intelligent dogs that require consistent training and socialization. They are excellent guard dogs and family companions when properly raised.
Puppies from reputable breeders can cost up to $9,000, reflecting their popularity and demand.
7. Canadian Eskimo Dog
The Canadian Eskimo Dog, also known as the Canadian Inuit Dog, is a rare breed from the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland. These powerful, sturdy dogs were bred to pull sleds and hunt game in the harsh Arctic environment. Canadian Eskimo Dogs have a thick, dense coat that protects them from the cold.
Canadian Eskimo Dogs are loyal, tough, and intelligent working dogs. However, they are critically endangered, with only an estimated 300 purebred dogs remaining as of 2008.
Due to their rarity and historical significance, Canadian Eskimo Dog puppies can cost up to $8,750.
8. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a large, muscular breed that originated in Argentina. These powerful, athletic dogs were bred for big-game hunting, including wild boar and puma. Dogo Argentinos have a short, white coat and a strong, square head.
Dogo Argentinos are loyal, courageous, and intelligent dogs that require experienced owners and consistent training. They have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets.
Dogo Argentino puppies can cost up to $8,000.
9. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound is an ancient breed that originated in Malta. These elegant, athletic dogs were bred to hunt rabbits and other small game. Pharaoh Hounds have a short, glossy coat that comes in shades of tan and chestnut, with a white-tipped tail.
They are friendly, affectionate, and playful dogs that make excellent family companions. They are known for their unique ability to “blush” when excited, with their ears and nose turning a rosy pink.
Pharaoh Hound puppies can cost up to $7,500.
10. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a stunning and elegant breed that originated in Afghanistan. These tall, slender dogs were bred to hunt game in the rugged mountains of their native land. Afghan Hounds have a long, silky coat that requires extensive grooming to maintain its beauty.
Afghan Hounds are independent, aloof, and dignified dogs that can be challenging to train. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Afghan Hound puppies can cost up to $7,000.
11. Akita
The Akita is a large and powerful breed that originated in Japan. These loyal, courageous dogs were originally bred to hunt bears and guard nobility. Akitas have a thick, double coat that comes in various colors, including white, brindle, and red fawn.
Akitas are devoted, protective, and independent dogs that require experienced owners and consistent training. They can be aloof with strangers and aggressive towards other dogs if not properly socialized.
Puppies for this breed can cost up to $6,500.
12. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small, muscular breed that originated in France. These charming, affectionate dogs were bred as companions for Parisian lace makers. French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including brindle, fawn, and white.
French Bulldogs are playful, adaptable, and loving dogs that make excellent apartment companions. However, their popularity and the difficulty in breeding them due to their narrow hips have led to high prices. French Bulldog puppies can cost up to $6,000.
13. Saluki
The Saluki is an ancient and elegant sighthound that originated in the Middle East. These swift, agile dogs were bred to hunt gazelles and hares in the desert. Salukis have a long, silky coat that comes in various colors, including white, fawn, and red.
They are independent, aloof, and gentle dogs that require patient owners and regular exercise. They have a strong prey drive and should be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area.
Saluki puppies can cost up to $5,500.
14. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized, athletic breed that originated in Portugal. These intelligent, energetic dogs were bred to assist fishermen by retrieving lost gear and herding fish into nets. Portuguese Water Dogs have a curly or wavy coat that comes in black, white, or brown.
Portuguese Water Dogs are friendly, trainable, and eager to please, making them excellent family companions. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Puppies can cost up to $5,000.
15. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a medium-sized, muscular breed that originated in England. These gentle, courageous dogs were originally bred for bull-baiting, but have since become beloved family pets. English Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including brindle, fawn, and red.
English Bulldogs are friendly, loyal, and adaptable dogs that make excellent companions for apartment dwellers. However, their popularity and the health issues associated with their brachycephalic face shape have led to high prices. English Bulldog puppies can cost up to $4,300.
The world of expensive dog breeds is a fascinating one, filled with rare, beautiful, and highly sought-after canines. While owning one of these expensive breeds can be a significant investment, the joy, companionship, and prestige they bring to their owners are often considered priceless.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.