While every dog is priceless to its family, some breeds come with eye-watering price tags due to their rarity, pedigree, or unique traits. Here are the top 10 most expensive dog breeds and why they cost so much.
1. Tibetan Mastiff
Price: $5,000 – $10,000+ (record sales up to $1 million in China)
About: A giant, fluffy guardian breed originally from the Himalayas. Known for loyalty, independence, and lion-like appearance. Rare outside Asia.
2. Samoyed
Price: $4,000 – $11,000+
About: Famous for their “Sammy smile,” these white, fluffy sled dogs from Siberia are friendly, social, and require regular grooming.
3. Chow Chow
Price: $3,000 – $8,500+
About: An ancient Chinese breed with a lion’s mane and a distinctive blue-black tongue. Aloof yet loyal, they need experienced owners.
4. Löwchen (Little Lion Dog)
Price: $5,000 – $8,000+
About: Once called the rarest dog in the world. Small, cheerful companion dog with a lion-like haircut, bred as a lapdog for European nobility.
5. Rottweiler
Price: $2,000 – $8,000+ (for top show or working lines)
About: Strong, intelligent guard and working dog from Germany. High-quality, health-tested puppies from champion lines command high prices.
6. Azawakh
Price: $3,000 – $6,500+
About: A slender, rare sighthound from West Africa. Very fast, elegant, and loyal but reserved with strangers.
7. Canadian Eskimo Dog (Qimmiq)
Price: $3,000 – $6,000+
About: One of the oldest indigenous North American breeds. Powerful Arctic sled dog, now extremely rare and protected in Canada.
8. Pharaoh Hound
Price: $2,500 – $6,000+
About: Sleek, athletic sighthound from Malta. Famous for its “blushing” nose and ears. Rare and elegant.
9. Dogo Argentino
Price: $2,000 – $5,000+
About: A muscular big-game hunting breed from Argentina. Courageous and loyal, requires firm training and socialization.
10. Akita (Japanese and American varieties)
Price: $2,000 – $6,500+
About: Large, powerful spitz-type dog from Japan. Known for loyalty (the story of Hachikō). High-quality puppies from reputable breeders are costly.
Why These Dogs Are So Expensive
- Rarity: Some breeds have very small populations.
- Breeding Costs: Health testing, import fees, and showing dogs raise costs.
- Demand: Exotic or fashionable breeds can drive prices up.
Remember, adoption fees at shelters and rescues are a fraction of these prices, and many wonderful dogs are waiting for homes.
