The 26 Most Expensive Dog Breeds Worldwide – Prices, Traits & Care Tips

High‑Priced Pups

Choosing a dog is a lifelong commitment that goes far beyond the initial purchase price. From routine vet visits and specialty foods to grooming, boarding, and dog‑walking services, the total cost of ownership can quickly add up. For this list, we focused on the average purchase price reported by reputable breeders and vetted puppy listings across the United States. We gathered data from Gooddog.com, a trusted platform that connects buyers with certified, health‑checked puppies, and combined it with expert insights from board‑certified veterinarians.

Jaclyn Coble, DVM, of Sea Legs Integrative Veterinary Health, explains that a breed’s popularity, pedigree, and rarity in a given region are key factors that drive price. “Breeds like the Pharaoh Hound are expensive not because of their size but because they are rare in the U.S.,” she notes. “The same goes for exotic or newly recognized breeds that are in high demand.”

Below is our curated list of the 26 most expensive dog breeds, ranked by average purchase cost. For each, we provide essential facts, temperament highlights, and care considerations, along with quotes from Dr. Coble and Deepan Kishore, DVM, of Neel Veterinary Hospital.

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About the Experts

• Jaclyn Coble, DVM – Veterinarian, Sea Legs Integrative Veterinary Health, West Roxbury, Massachusetts
• Deepan Kishore, DVM – Veterinarian, Neel Veterinary Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

1. English Bulldog

Average cost: $4,250

The English Bulldog has long been celebrated for its distinctive flat face and sturdy build. A championship win by Thor in 2019 at the National Dog Show helped cement its status as a highly sought‑after companion. With a lifespan of 8–10 years and a calm disposition, bulldogs thrive in low‑energy households that appreciate their gentle nature.

Breed overview

• Height: 14–15 inches
• Weight: 40–50 pounds
• Life expectancy: 8–10 years

2. French Bulldog

Average cost: $4,250

Compact and affectionate, the French Bulldog is renowned for its playful spirit and minimal grooming needs. Their short legs and signature bat ears make them a popular choice for apartment living. Frenchies bond strongly with children and other pets, making them ideal family companions.

Breed overview

• Height: 11–13 inches
• Weight: Under 28 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

3. Tibetan Mastiff

Average cost: $4,000

The Tibetan Mastiff is a massive, powerful dog that has earned notoriety as the most expensive dog ever sold when “Big Splash” fetched $1.5 million. While their imposing size can be intimidating, these dogs are fiercely loyal and protective. However, their large body mass leads to higher veterinary and grooming costs.

Breed overview

• Height: 24–26 inches
• Weight: 70–150 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

4. Chow Chow

Average cost: $4,000

With a dense double coat and a characteristic blue‑purple tongue, the Chow Chow is a unique and independent breed. Their cat‑like grooming habits mean they are less prone to odor, but they require regular brushing to maintain coat health. Chow Chows are dignified and can be aloof with strangers.

Breed overview

• Height: 17–20 inches
• Weight: 45–70 pounds
• Life expectancy: 8–12 years

5. Samoyed

Average cost: $3,750

Known for their “smiling” faces, Samoyeds are gentle, affectionate, and highly social. They thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity. Potential owners should be aware of hereditary eye problems and hip dysplasia, which can increase veterinary expenses.

Breed overview

• Height: 19–23.5 inches
• Weight: 35–65 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years

6. Biewer Terrier

Average cost: $3,500

Despite its name, the Biewer Terrier is a tiny, affectionate companion weighing only 4–8 pounds. Genetic analysis shows a mix of Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Havanese, and Bichon Frise. These lap dogs are ideal for families seeking a portable, low‑maintenance pet.

Breed overview

• Height: 7–11 inches
• Weight: 4–8 pounds
• Life expectancy: 16 years

7. Portuguese Water Dog

Average cost: $3,500

Famed for its curly, non‑shedding coat, the Portuguese Water Dog was once a working dog in the U.S. Navy and later a presidential companion. They are intelligent, energetic, and thrive on regular exercise and mental challenges.

Breed overview

• Height: 17–23 inches
• Weight: 35–60 pounds
• Life expectancy: 11–13 years

8. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Average cost: $3,450

These gentle giants share ancestry with the Saint Bernard and Rottweiler. Their muscular frame and friendly nature make them excellent family dogs, though they require consistent exercise and should be kept cool in hot climates.

Breed overview

• Height: 23–28.5 inches
• Weight: 85–140 pounds
• Life expectancy: 8–11 years

9. Irish Wolfhound

Average cost: $3,250

The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest sighthounds, standing 32 inches at the shoulder. Their gentle temperament and loyalty make them ideal family pets, but their size means higher breeding and veterinary costs.

Breed overview

• Height: 30–32 inches
• Weight: 105–120 pounds
• Life expectancy: 6–8 years

10. Newfoundland

Average cost: $3,250

Known for their calm demeanor and love of water, Newfoundlands are excellent family dogs. They shed minimally and have a low drool factor, but require regular grooming and a daily walk to prevent boredom.

Breed overview

• Height: 26–28 inches
• Weight: 100–150 pounds
• Life expectancy: 9–10 years

11. Shikoku

Average cost: $3,250

Often called the “Japanese Wolf,” the Shikoku is alert, energetic, and excels in cold climates. They have a strong prey drive and require daily exercise and mental enrichment.

Breed overview

• Height: 17–22 inches
• Weight: 35–55 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Average cost: $3,000

With a gentle disposition and strong bond with humans, Cavaliers are popular family companions and emotional support dogs. However, they are prone to mitral valve disease, so careful selection from reputable breeders and preventive care are essential.

Breed overview

• Height: 12–13 inches
• Weight: 13–18 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years

13. Löwchen

Average cost: $3,000

The Löwchen, or “little lion dog,” boasts a distinctive mane that requires regular grooming. Despite its regal appearance, the breed is friendly, playful, and a safe family pet.

Breed overview

• Height: 12–14 inches
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Life expectancy: 13–15 years

14. Dogo Argentino

Average cost: $3,000

Recognized by the AKC in 2020, the Dogo Argentino is a powerful hunting dog that excels in protection and agility. They demand a high level of daily exercise and socialization.

Breed overview

• Height: 24–26.5 inches
• Weight: 80–100 pounds
• Life expectancy: 9–15 years

15. Bernese Mountain Dog

Average cost: $2,980

These affectionate giants are known for their versatility and calm demeanor. They thrive in family settings and excel in activities such as agility and sled pulling.

Breed overview

• Height: 23–27.5 inches
• Weight: 70–115 pounds
• Life expectancy: 7–10 years

16. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Average cost: $2,900

Once bred for fighting, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are now beloved family dogs known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. Responsible ownership, including proper training and socialization, is vital.

Breed overview

• Height: 14–16 inches
• Weight: 24–38 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years

17. Rottweiler

Average cost: $2,750

Originally a cattle‑herding dog, Rottweilers serve as police, military, and family pets. With disciplined training, they are affectionate and protective companions.

Breed overview

• Height: 22–27 inches
• Weight: 80–135 pounds
• Life expectancy: 9–10 years

18. Golden Retriever

Average cost: $2,750

The Golden Retriever’s versatility—from therapy work to competitive obedience—combined with its friendly temperament, makes it one of the most beloved breeds. Their moderate price reflects their high demand and widespread popularity.

Breed overview

• Height: 21.5–24 inches
• Weight: 55–75 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

19. Spinone Italiano

Average cost: $2,630

With a classic hunting look and striking features, the Spinone Italiano is a highly trainable and affectionate companion. Their loyal nature and intelligence make them a favorite among experienced owners.

Breed overview

• Height: 22–27 inches
• Weight: 65–85 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

20. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Average cost: $2,600

Recognized by its unique dorsal ridge, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a proud, loyal guardian. They thrive with experienced owners who provide consistent training and ample exercise.

Breed overview

• Height: 24–27 inches
• Weight: 70–85 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

21. Azawakh

Average cost: $2,500

With a slender, athletic build, the Azawakh is built for speed and endurance. They are intelligent and reserved, requiring early training and plenty of space to run.

Breed overview

• Height: 23.5–29 inches
• Weight: 33–35 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years

22. Akita

Average cost: $2,300

Akitas are stoic guardians with a deep affection for family. Their thick double coat and webbed toes make them well‑suited for cold climates, but they require regular exercise and firm training.

Breed overview

• Height: 24–28 inches
• Weight: 70–130 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–14 years

23. Saint Bernard

Average cost: $2,300

Once renowned for mountain rescue, the Saint Bernard is now a calm, affectionate companion. Owners should be mindful of hip and elbow dysplasia risks and prepare for higher veterinary costs.

Breed overview

• Height: 26–30 inches
• Weight: 120–180 pounds
• Life expectancy: 8–10 years

24. Black Russian Terrier

Average cost: $2,250

Despite its terrier name, the Black Russian Terrier is a large, powerful dog. They excel as guard dogs but require consistent exercise and mental stimulation to stay content.

Breed overview

• Height: 26–30 inches
• Weight: 80–130 pounds
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years

25. Afghan Hound

Average cost: $2,250

With flowing coats and a regal demeanor, the Afghan Hound demands meticulous grooming. They are independent, yet affectionate with family, and thrive in a calm environment.

Breed overview

• Height: 25–27 inches
• Weight: 50–60 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12–18 years

26. Pharaoh Hound

Average cost: $2,250

The national dog of Malta, the Pharaoh Hound is lean, energetic, and highly trainable. Their natural “blushing” when excited is a unique trait. They thrive on regular exercise and mental challenges.

Breed overview

• Height: 21–25 inches
• Weight: 45–55 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years

Why Trust Us

Reader’s Digest is dedicated to publishing accurate, expert‑driven content. Our article was authored by Lisa Marie Conklin, a seasoned reporter with seven years of pet coverage, and reviewed by Dr. Caroline Coile, PhD, an award‑winning journalist specializing in canine science. All data were verified against reputable primary sources and industry experts to ensure reliability and relevance.

Sources

• Jaclyn Coble, DVM – Sea Legs Integrative Veterinary Health, interview, Jan. 29, 2024
• Deepan Kishore, DVM – Neel Veterinary Hospital, interview, Jan. 31, 2024
• CBS News: “Tibetan Mastiff, ‘Big Splash,’ sells for $1.5 million, world’s most expensive dog”
• Hill’s Pet: “Dog Breeds”
• Gooddog.com: Pricing