We adore cats, true. But let’s admit it: a few dog breeds have that heart-melting charm… and a price tag to match. Ready to meet the most expensive dogs in the world and understand what drives those eye-widening figures?
Before you dive in, three helpful signposts to choose wisely:
- Smart tip: ask a reputable breeder for a written 12-month cost projection (grooming, premium food, insurance, training). It turns the “purchase price” into a real-life budget you can compare.
- Common mistake: falling for the look without checking the breed club and parents’ health tests (hips, eyes, heart). Skipping this can turn a “good deal” into years of vet bills.
- Fun fact: the Chow Chow’s tongue is naturally blue-black. Once seen, never forgotten!
Want to balance elegance and budget? Explore the most beautiful dogs in the world and refine your crush.
Afghan Hound — 7,000 €
Born aristocrat, this silky-coated runner needs near-daily brushing. Beauty comes with upkeep, and grooming quickly becomes a budget line of its own.
Playful yet sensitive, life expectancy is around 10–14 years. Skin and coat are delicate, so regular care and a calm routine keep them thriving.
Pharaoh Hound — 7,500 €
Athletic, lean and expressive, the Pharaoh Hound is a loyal partner with a need for speed. Think gentle canicross, lure coursing, or scent games.
He’s sensitive to stress and needs a clear routine. Overall robust, but boredom can trigger tummy upsets—mental balance matters as much as exercise.
Dogo Argentino — 8,000 €
Powerful, enduring and protective, he was developed for big-game hunting. Training must be consistent and respectful—he shines with positive methods.
Depending on country or region, regulations may apply. Always check locally before adopting, and choose transparent, registered breeders.
Canadian Eskimo Dog — 8,750 €
Ancient and rare, this Arctic companion has worked alongside people for over 1,000 years. Devoted to their group, they need purpose and space.
Often reserved with strangers and sometimes territorial, they suit experienced homes. Calm environment plus physical and mental outlets are key.
Rottweiler — 9,000 €
Despite the tough rep, a well-socialized Rottie is a sweet, loyal family shadow. Clear rules, kind training and regular outings equal a happy guardian.
Average lifespan is 8–10 years. Keep an eye on weight, hips and heart—and compare looks and temperaments with other beautiful dog breeds before you choose.
Azawakh — 9,500 €
A Sahel sighthound built for speed, the Azawakh bonds deeply with his person. Reserved with strangers, he’s a gentle soul indoors.
He loves safe, open spaces to stretch those legs. Feed high-quality food to support lean muscle without tipping into thinness.
Tibetan Mastiff — 10,000 €
A mountain guardian with a lion’s mane, calm yet hyper-vigilant. Early socialization and a clear, stable framework are essential.
Upkeep can add up (food, health, space). Some individuals have fetched record sums in Asia at private sales.
Chow Chow — 11,000 €
Teddy-bear outline, cat-like dignity, blue tongue—the Chow Chow is a character. He prefers calm routines and keeps a touch of independence.
Plan regular walks and steady grooming, especially during shedding. For a dose of pure cuteness, browse the cutest puppies.
Löwchen — 12,000 €
The “little lion dog” is rare, cheerful and very playful. Great with families, he loves joining in—tricks, dancing, brain games.
He truly dislikes long, lonely hours. If you’re out a lot, think dog-sitter or a co-family to keep him content.
Samoyed — 14,000 €
That famous “Sammie smile” comes with a big heart and big energy. Extremely social, he needs company and varied outlets to shine.
He’s curious and an explorer—secure the garden and practice recall. For safety insights, learn about the dog breeds that bite the most in France and prevent incidents.
How much should you budget beyond the purchase price?
Beyond the upfront cost, plan for these:
- Premium food matched to size, activity and coat needs.
- Pet insurance (often smart for large or rare breeds).
- Grooming, quality gear and training classes if needed.
Adopting is about kind planning and clear-eyed math. Curious about pet budgets generally? See how much a feline really costs in this price guide for cats.
The bottom line
An expensive dog isn’t “better,” just rarer or costlier to breed well. What matters most? Finding the one that fits your rhythm, your heart… and your budget.
FAQ
What is the most expensive dog in the world right now?
Among the priciest, the Samoyed often tops the list, with the Löwchen and Chow Chow close behind—exact prices vary by bloodline and rarity.
Why do some dog breeds cost so much?
Rarity, strict selection, health testing, import costs, low litter numbers and ethical breeding all push prices up.
How can I avoid scams when buying a pricey purebred?
Choose a registered breeder, ask for veterinary certificates, health-tested parents, a clear contract, and visit the kennel. Be wary of rushed, “too good to be true” ads.
What annual budget should I plan for a “premium” breed?
Roughly 1,200–2,500 € per year depending on size and grooming needs. Insurance and quality nutrition can prevent bigger bills later.
