30 Most Expensive Dog Breeds in 2021
Having a dog by your side brings immense joy and companionship in life. Dog owners undeniably consider their dogs priceless and shower them with love even if they are the most expensive dog breeds.
Owning a dog, however, is not an easy task. Therefore, it’s advisable to research and know the financial responsibility of getting a dog, especially if it’s a high maintenance expensive dog breed.
The health requirements, diet, maintenance, and buying cost all determine the overall cost of keeping your dog happy and healthy. If you want to own a dog or are a dog lover, read on to be prepared for the financial responsibility of owning them.
Most Expensive Dog Breeds in 2021
Have a look at the quick overview from the table below.
Dog Breeds | Cost | Lifespan |
1. Tibetan Mastiff | $1.95 Million | 12 – 15 Year |
2. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog | $50,000 | 12-16 Years |
3. Portuguese Water Dog | $2500 to $3000 | 10 to 14 years. |
4. Afghan Hound | $2000 | 12- 14 years |
5. Irish Wolfhound | $1,800 | 6-10 years |
6. Black Russian Terrier | $1,800 | 10-14 years |
7. Bedlington Terrier | $1,800 | 14-16 years |
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier | $1500 | 12 -14 years |
9. Spinone Italiano | $1500 | 12 -14 years |
10. Saint Bernard | $1,500 | 8-10 years |
11. Newfoundland | $1,500 | 9 to 10 years. |
12. Ibizan Hound | $1300 | 12 to 14 years |
13. English Bulldog | $1250 | 8 years |
14. Old English Sheepdog | $1,200 | 10 to 12 years |
15. Miniature Bull Terrier | $1,200 | 10 to 12 years |
16. Alaskan Malamute | $1,200 | 12 to15 years. |
17. Rottweiler | $1,200 | 8 to10 years |
18. Samoyed | $1,200 | 12 to 14 years |
19. Dogo Argentino | $1,200 | 12 to 14 years |
20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | $1,200 | 10 to14 years |
21. Lakeland Terrier | $1,200 | 12 to 16 years |
22 . Golden Retriever
|
$1,000 | 10 to 12 years |
23. Chow Chow | $900 | 8 to 12 years |
24. Great Danes | $800 | 7 to 10 years |
25. Bernese Mountain Dog | $800 | 7 to 10 years |
26. German Shepherds | $800 | 10 to 13 years |
27. Akita | $800 | 11 to 15 years |
28. Kerry Blue Terrier | $600 | 12 to 15 years |
29. Yorkshire Terriers | $600 | 13 to 16 years |
30. Black and Tan Coonhound | $400-$600 | 10 to 12 years |
30. Black and Tan Coonhound
Black and Tan Coonhound costs from $400 to $600 and lives for approximately 10 to 12 years. This breed originates from the South of the USA from the 18th century.
They are both naturally quiet and have an active, pleasant personality. Coonhound is a big dog with a height of 23 to 27 inches and 65 to 100 lbs. The coats of Blacks and Browns are shorter, thick, and simple to maintain in charcoal black.
They have health issues like hip dysplasia raising their hospital bills to $1500. Grooming them helps in removing oils from the body and also helps in hair growth.
They require exercises like play sessions or walks. Owners should start puppy training and socialization of this breed early in life.
29. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers costs about $600 and live for about 13-16 years.
Their most extraordinary beauty is a floor-length, smooth fur of cobalt blues and a golden blonde tan on a tiny, toy-size terrier weighing little and over 7 pounds. But, unfortunately, they’re susceptible to various health complications, like eyesight and knee problems, that might cost them an equivalent of $9,800 in medical bills.
Their grooming bills are around $31 for each appointment. Despite their size, they require exercise to be fit and healthy. In addition, they must be the top quality food which might be homemade or store-bought.
They are friendly and highly loyal to their owners. However, they are not judged by their tiny bodies as they can be pretty aggressive and bossy.
28. Kerry Blue Terrier
Kerry Blue Terriers have a price range of around $600 and lives for 12 to 15 years, depending on their health. They have a unique blue fur coat.
Their fur requires maintenance like brushing and grooming twice a week. As a result, Terrier’s grooming bills cost equivalent to $60. Moreover, their vet bills can amount to $7,000.
This breed requires lots of exercise, and training is advisable from an early age. They are intelligent breeds who enjoy activities like herding, hunting, etc.
Interesting fact: The Kerry in their name is based on County Kerry, which is in the Republic of Ireland
27. Akita
Akita breed costs about $800 and has a lifespan of 11-15 years. These friendly dogs have a thick coat with a wide range of colorations.
They have multiple health issues like knee and skin problems, due to which their medical bills can amount to $4,500. In addition, they shed heavily during the fall and spring seasons, requiring grooming sessions. Hence, Owners should separate their grooming cost of about $62 per session.
Generally, they are not very active but do require some exercise. This breed can be fed high-quality homemade or store-bought food.
They are 24 to 28 inches tall.
26. German Shepherds
German Shepherd has characteristic long pointed ears and thick bushy tails. Shepherds cost around $800 and live for 10-13 years.
They have health issues like hip problems and perianal fistulas, raising their medical expenditures to about $20,500. In addition, they have medium-long double coat fur and a soft undercoat which requires grooming care. The sessions can cost up to $40.
They are loyal and steady breeds. German Shephard is an athletic breed and requires high exercise. Not having enough activity can cause the species to develop aggressive behaviors.
German Shepherd Dogs are strongly committed to their owners.
25. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs cost about $800 and have a life expectancy of 7-10 years.
They have a range of health problems, such as elbow and hip problems and aseptic meningitis, which might result in medical costs of about $6,500.
The Bernese Mountain Dog has two coats: a lengthier exterior fur and a woolly undercoat. Grooming this 70-pound to 120-pound dog will cost approximately $75.
To stay happy and content, Bernese Mountain Dogs require a minimum of a half-hour light exercise per day.
24. Great Danes
Great Danes cost about $800 and have a lifespan of 7-10 years. They reach the height of 32 inches and are even taller than most humans when they stand up.
They have short hair making grooming easier. Moreover, the total grooming cost amounts to $48. In addition, they have stomach issues and heart issues, which raises their medical bills to above $7,100.
Danes require moderate daily exercises to be healthy. Then, you can feed them high-quality store-bought or home-prepared meals.
Great Danes are the world’s tallest canines.
23. Chow Chow
Chow Chow is initially bred in China. They can cost up to $900 and lives for 8 to 12 years. They have a huge head and a short, deep snout with a broad, flattened head.
Owners should groom this breed regularly to maintain its look. Moreover, their grooming costs can be as high as $90 per visit. In addition, they have multiple health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, and thyroid issues, and the total medical expenses are hefty $11,000.
Chows are thoughtful, elegant, and reserved canines. These canines are very clever and possess a strong sense of self-reliance. Training and socialization classes are required starting from an early age.
Their tongues take on a distinctly blue or black color.
22. Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is a tiny type with only a median price of $1,200. It was originally intended to chase pests in England.
Since maintenance requires an estimate of $65 and getting a groomer knowledgeable with the breed’s particular appearance may be difficult, this canine is among the most costly to ever own.
However, the breed isn’t really susceptible to several problems; a Lakeland Terrier with a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years could cost you around $1,000 in medical costs.
Lakelands is not a restless breed if trained properly. Regular walks or quick jogs and regular chances to roam in a safely enclosed environment will make them mentally and physically healthy.
21. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are playful and friendly family dogs. Unfortunately, pure breed retrievers are among the most expensive dog breeds costing approximately $1000. They live up to 10-12 years.
They come in light to dark golden colors. Retrievers have a lustrous thick coat that sheds during seasons but does not require excessive grooming. About 50-55$ for grooming will suffice. They need constant exercise and playtime as they are active dogs.
They have numerous health conditions like cancer which could raise the medical bills to $17,500. So if you want to own a retriever, be prepared for its complete checkup. In addition, they require puppy training from an early age, similar to all large dog breeds.
It is believed that a retriever’s grip is so soft that it can even carry an egg without cracking it! However, research is yet to back up the claim whatsoever.
20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Among the most expensive breeds of dogs to purchase is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This dog’s average selling price is $1,200. A breed characteristic is the lovely, soft, caressing look radiating from big, large eyes. The smooth, brightly colored coat would be another.
Cavaliers are susceptible to a variety of health problems. Some examples are visual disorders (such as retina issues and cataracts), patella luxation, hip problems, and ear infections.
On the other hand, Grooming them is pretty simple, costing an equivalent of $55 for each session. This dog breed lives for 10 to 14 years and is prone to various medical problems, resulting in $1,350 in health care expenses.
Despite being developed as a lap dog, the Cavalier is evolved from sports hounds and enjoys gentle exercise and outside activities. The young Cavalier would acquire basic manners with primary socialization and puppy training.
19. Dogo Argentino
This breed costs about $1200 and lives for 12 to 14 years.
The regular grooming service costs $35. In addition, treatment expenditures for hip problems and deafness, both prevalent in the breed, may reach $1,600. However, the Dogo Argentino is a generally healthy dog with only a few hereditary issues.
They’re big, strong, and sporty. Dogo Argentino is suitable for hunting wild boars and jaguars over a variety of landscapes. However, owners must examine their ears frequently to minimize wax and particle accumulation, which can cause infections.
Types of dog formulations are available from several dog food companies for tiny, mid, enormous, and gigantic breeds. For example, the Dogo Argentino is a giant breed of dog.
Even with their intimidating looks, Dogo Argentino enjoys cuddling.
18. Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their characteristics of fluffy white appearance. They are also kind and curious breeds.
Their thick white coats need to be groomed and kept clean, generally requiring brushing twice a week. As a result, their grooming bills are over $60 on every appointment.
Medical costs might exceed $4,800 for expensive health concerns, including corneal dystrophy and autoimmune disorders. Samoyeds love spending time with their families and taking part in group activities.
These are intelligent, friendly, and playful dogs who require a lot of attention and affection. To teach Sammies, they need a stern yet caring approach.
17. Rottweiler
Buying a Rottweiler costs approximately $1,200 and has a lifespan of 8-10 years. It inherited its tremendous power from the Roman soldiers’ mastiffs.
This short-haired dog, which is attentive, brave, and clever, would cost you an equivalent of $36 in maintenance costs. Rottweilers are very pricey dogs to keep due to many health issues, with potential medical expenses reaching approximately $7,800.
Beginning at a young age, Owners should socialize with the Rottweiler. A well-behaved Rottweiler requires leadership, puppy socializing, introductory training sessions, and residing in the owner’s household.
The contemporary Rottweiler is said to be descended from Asian mastiffs used to breed herders in the past.
16. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute costs about $1200 and lives for around 12-15 years.
Each appointment to the groomer for these intelligent and active dogs costs at least $85 due to their thick hair. In addition, this dog’s medical costs total $7,700 due to an increased risk for various health issues such as diabetes.
The Alaskan Malamute’s dense, waterproof double coating is wonderfully suited to tough Arctic living, yet it needs constant maintenance. Alongside their owners, Malamutes love walking, jogging, and swimming.
A very well plumed tail draped over the back, upright ears, and solid bone distinguishes the Alaskan Moreover, Malamute is a loving, devoted, and energetic but polite dog.
15. Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Bull Terrier costs about $1,200 and has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. In addition, grooming them costs around $50. They’re typically in good health, having $1,500 in possible medical costs.
Aside from frequent washes and regular brushing with a brush or dog gloves, the Miniature Bull Terrier does not need much care.
It might be challenging to exercise them as They need plenty of activity as pups to keep in shape and maintain muscular strength, although they are susceptible to sudden lameness.
Till the dog is entirely developed, its joints may be unable to tolerate the extremes. As a result, their puppy’s activity must be limited to a limit. Do not let them jump from heights or come to an abrupt halt at full speed.
14. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs cost about $1200 and live up to 10-12 years.
They are well-known for their thick coats of hair. Breeders should test them for hip dysplasia, vision problems, inflammatory thyroiditis, irregular heartbeats, and genetic deafness, among other things.
This is among the most expensive dog breeds anyone could purchase, with maintenance expenditures of $88 for every appointment and future medical costs of $7,600. In addition, the type is double-coated, and also, to keep their thick fur, they must be groomed down to the skin, across the whole animal, at minimum weekly.
They have an obedient attitude and are incredibly clever.
13. English Bulldog
English Bulldog costs about $1250 and has a life span of approximately eight years.
Bulldog keepers must keep an eye on the dogs to ensure they don’t overheat. Besides, they have multiple health issues, which raises their vet bills to about $5,700.
Carefully check the folds on the Bulldog’s face to ensure that the skin is dry since debris or moisture might become lodged and cause discomfort or inflammation. Their grooming costs about $48.
They are friendly dogs and get along with children making them suitable pets.
12. Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hound costs about $1300 and has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. On the rocky coasts of Spain’s Balearic Islands, they were raised as bunny coursers.
Purebred Ibizan Hounds have a small likelihood of hip dysplasia and a moderate risk of becoming deaf, with possible medical costs of $1,600 on mean for common issues. Slick and wire Ibizan coatings are available, with the wire coat’s density varying wildly.
Beezers are pretty fit and need a lot of physical activity. It is not unusual for an Ibizan to leap 5 or 6 feet from a standing posture; therefore, the owner of this species should invest in high, safe fencing.
Puppy training programs and basic socializing are advised.
11. Newfoundland
Newfoundland costs about $1500 and lives for 9 to 10 years. Grey, brownish, black, and a black-and-white coat are among their hues.
These large species need expert trimming on a routine basis and cost around $65 each visit. Moreover, a handful of predisposing health problems, like cardiomyopathy and stomach dilatation-volvulus, might result in $5,500 in medical expenses.
They shed all around the year and will most likely require brushing many times every week. To be fit and satisfied, Newfoundlanders require a minimum of a half-hour of daily exercise. In addition, they need to interact with people regularly. Therefore, puppy training programs and basic socializing are advised.
Quick fact: Newfoundland dogs are incredible swimmers.
10. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard originates from the Western Alps in Switzerland and Italy. With a weight of approximately 54 to 82 kgs, these dogs can cost up to $1500. They live for around 8-10 years.
Usually, they are calm and composed. However, owners should start socialization and obedience training early to learn proper behavior for such a large-sized body. Bernards are short or long-haired; both require grooming costing up to $65. Moreover, they do not require much exercise.
Most of their expenses are healthcare as they are more prone to develop bloat, eye problems, and hip dysplasia. Care to these can cost approximately $8,600. High-quality dog food or homemade food would be sufficient for this breed.
A quick tip: Do not over bathe Saint Bernards as it will wash away all the oils required for their thick fur.
9. Spinone Italiano
Spinone Italiano costs approximately $1500 and lives 12 to 14 years. Therefore, the expense of maintaining such dogs is about $55.
While the breed is typically robust, primary health conditions like hip dysplasia and stomach dilatation-volvulus can cost up to $3,000 in medical expenditures.
They are friendly, gentle, and tolerant; they might be obstinate sometimes but is always lovable.
Although going for a walk or a trip is often an intelligent option, it does not have to be done each day. You may teach a Spinone the fundamentals or even compete with them in behavior competitions, but don’t assume them to be uptight.
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier costs about $1500 and has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They are gentle, joyful pets that have a strong fondness for children.
This standard size, active dogs like long hikes and require essential maintenance, which costs around $48 every visit to the salon. However, healthcare for typical medical issues can set you back about $3,500.
It’s not tough to maintain a Staffordshire Bull Terrier appearing attractive. However, to keep healthy and emotionally intense, the Stafford demands frequent activity. This activity might include racing a ball around the lawn, running with a bike or jogger, or simply taking a long stroll through the wilderness.
They can develop a range of skin issues, some of which are hereditary.
7. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is one of the world’s finest breeds of dogs. They appear to be tiny and pleasant. They have a lifespan of 14-16 years.
The estimated cost of a Bedlington Terrier is $1,800, with possible medical spending of $3,700.
All possibilities are hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid, von Willebrand’s syndrome, thrombophilia, and other vision problems.
The Bedlington Terrier’s wavy coat combines smooth and rough, but not spiky, fur.
Bedlingtons, like other Terriers, have a burst of power and need to be exercised regularly to make sure they are healthy and happy.
6. Black Russian Terrier
Black Russian Terrier costs as much as $1800 and lives for about 10-14 years. The Soviet Union developed them in the 1940s and 1950s.
Moreover, the price of their professional grooming is $105. They are ready to accompany the owners for short walks, sprints, trips, swimming, and excursions.
Without adequate activity, a dog would become restless and aggressive. Therefore, training should begin when the dog is a puppy and extend throughout the dog to avoid violent behavior’s lifetime. Furthermore, obedience commands should start as soon as feasible and persist until the child reaches maturity.
The Black Russian Terrier has only been existing for around a century.
5. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is an Irish sighthound dog breed costing up to $1,800. They have a short life span of 6-10 years.
Vets advise that you provide a large, roomy kennel for your large Irish Wolfhound to take a rest in. They are affectionate, empathetic, calm, friendly, and fun. A yearly checkup is advised, ideally by a doctor experienced with sighthounds, including an Electrocardiogram. You can expect healthcare expenses to reach about $7,700.
These are non-shedding and hypoallergenic breeds. Nevertheless, its fur might become filthy, requiring maintenance costing up to $65.Wolfhounds require movement all of their life. Dog training programs and earlier socializing are advised.
The Irish Wolfhound’s essential micronutrients should be found in a high-quality pet kibble explicitly developed for big dogs.
4. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a big dog that costs around $2,000 in the United States. They may reach a shoulder height of 27 inches.
With their silky, lustrous fur, these gorgeous dogs require regular grooming to grow their hair in excellent condition. Styling by an expert requires $65 every visit.
Cataracts and hypothyroidism, for example, may result in a maximum of $2,900 in medical costs. Bloating is a fast and life-threatening enlargement of the stomach in Afghan Hounds. Sighthounds, like Afghans, possess limited body stored fat and are very reactive to anesthesia. Therefore, breed specialists advise finding out a sighthound-experienced vet for surgical operations.
Furthermore, they require a large area for running and exercising. On the other hand, Hounds require less behavioral training.
3. Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese water dog is a small dog breed originating from the Algarve region of Portugal. They can cost up to 2500$ to 3000$ and have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years.
Moreover, it would help if you groomed them on a regular schedule and in a thorough manner. Every appointment to the salon typically costs $53. In addition, they face various clinical bills of over $2,700.
The Portuguese Water Dog is an energetic, restless breed that needs constant strenuous activity to stay fit and satisfied. This may form a part of extended regular walks and playtime. Therefore, a high-quality kibble, either commercially produced or homemade, would be enough for the Portuguese Water Dog.
Quick Fact: Water Dogs are so named because they can drive fishes towards fishery traps, recover dropped gear or damaged fishing lines, and so on.
2. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a breed resembling wolves as suggested by their name and can cost up to USD 50,000. They have a thick coat and are usually yellowish-grey to silver-grey. Moreover, they are an intelligent and loyal breed with high stamina. Czechoslovakians bred them starting from the 1950s to work in borders of Czechoslovakian.
Wolfdogs are generally healthy breeds, due to which they require fewer healthcare costs. In addition, they have cold-resistant fur, which is self-cleaning, resulting in lower grooming costs.
They usually need a raw food diet, but owners can also feed high-quality kibble to them. However, additional raw food supplements are required. Overall, providing a wolfdog can cost an estimated 150-250$.
Training this breed can be quite tricky as they are independent breeds with dominant personalities.
They have a lifespan of 12-16 Years
1. Tibetian Mastiff
Tibetian Mastiff is a large dog breed with a characteristic thick coat. Despite its size, it is a friendly dog that bonds well with children too. This breed has a lifespan of 10-14 years. Tibetian mastiff costs are as high as $1.95 million.
Tibetian Mastiff originated from Tibet, China, and the mountainous parts of Nepal. It usually weighs 73 kilograms in full size. It is expensive right from the purchase as its average selling price is $2,500. In addition, grooming this breed costs about $70 on each visit.
Mastiffs are usually sick from hip issues and elbow dysplasia, raising their healthcare bills to approximately $3,000. Also, the mastiff is a high-energy breed requiring constant play and simulation, or it can be aggressive.
Did you know? Mastiffs are generally kept as guard dogs.