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15+ Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World

By Kerry
Updated on

Many would say that you can’t really put a price on a pet. However, some of us have bills to pay and simply can’t afford to buy an expensive pet, even if it is super cute and friendly.

Shitzu is an expensive dog breed

But it’s nice to see how the other half live, and to that end, we’re going to be showing you a line-up of over 15 of the world’s most expensive dog breeds. And without further do…

(These breeds aren’t listed in any particular order.)

1. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese water dog laying down on a green grass

The Portuguese water dog was first bred by monks who were looking for a dog that could swim well. It has been around since the 1500s and is one of the oldest working dogs still used today.

They are known as “the swimming dog” because they love to go into the water. They are also knowledgeable and trainable. They make great companions and are good with children.

Depending on their size, they can cost anywhere between $7,000-$10,000.

2. Great Dane

Great dane by the sea

The Great Dane is a large breed of dog that originated in Europe. They are known for being extremely strong and loyal.

The Great Dane was originally used for pulling heavy loads, but now they are mostly kept as pets. They are also genius and trainable.

A Great Dane can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000, depending on your chosen bloodline.

3. Golden Retriever

Close-up shot of a golden retriever standing

The golden retriever is a popular family pet that originated in England. The golden retriever is generally seen as a happy-go-lucky dog. They are very affectionate and get along well with people of all ages.

This breed of a dog costs about $6,500-$9,000.

4. Saint Bernard

Saint bernard sitting on the grass on sunny day

St. Bernard is a large breed of mountain dog that originated in Switzerland. These dogs are not only big, but they are also mighty. They were originally used to help herd cattle and sheep.

Today they are mainly kept as companion animals. They are very protective and territorial towards their owners.

These dogs can cost anywhere from $8,000-$20,000.

5. Tibetan Mastiff

Dog breed tibetan mastiff on the grass

The Tibetan mastiff is a large breed of domestic dog originating from Tibet.

This breed of dog is known for its strength and loyalty. They were originally bred to protect livestock and herdsmen, but now they are more commonly kept as guard or service dogs.

They can cost anywhere from $13,000-$25,000.

6. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman pinscher outside in a wooded setting

The Doberman Pinscher is a medium-sized dog that originated in Germany. They are known for their intelligence and bravery.

They are also very loyal and protective of their families.

They can cost anything from $7,000-$14,000.

7. Irish Wolfhound

Large purebred irish wolfhound dog outdoors on a sunny day

The Irish wolfhound is a large breed of hunting dog that originated in Ireland. They are known for having a thick double coat and a deep chest. Their coats come in many colors including black, red, tan, white, blue, and fawn.

Wolfhounds are very loving and playful dogs. They have an independent personality and need lots of exercises. They are best suited to homes with older kids.

Wolfhounds can cost anywhere from $11,000-$22,000.

8. Black Russian Terrier

Dog breed russian black terrier stand on green grass

The Black Russian Terrier is a small breed of dog that originated from Russia. They have short legs, long bodies, and flat faces. They are amiable and fun-loving dogs.

Black Russians are usually active, energetic dogs. They do well with other dogs and cats. They are excellent watchdogs.

They can cost between $6,000-$10,500.

9. Rottweiler

Portrait of a purebred rottweiler in a field

The rottweiler is a large German shepherd dog breed that originated in Germany and the Netherlands. They are known for guarding property and protecting children.

They are good with children and other household pets. They are intelligent, athletic, and eager to please. They make great therapy dogs.

They can range anywhere from $8,500-$17,000.

10. Bull Mastiff

Portrait of a bull mastiff outside in the woods

The bull mastiff is a large breed that originated in England. They are known for being extremely strong and fearless. They are also very protective of their families.

They are one of the few breeds that have been around since ancient times. They are very devoted to their families and enjoy spending time with them.

Bullmastiffs can cost anywhere from $12,000-$18,000.

11. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan sled dog on the grass

The Alaskan malamute is a large breed of dog that originated in Alaska. They are known for working in extreme temperatures and heavy snow conditions.

Malamutes are very smart, loyal, and gentle. They get along well with people of all ages.

They can cost up to $30,000.

12. Spinone Italiano

Spinone italiano hunting in the grass

The Spinone Italiano is a large breed of herding dog that originated in Italy. They are known for making wonderful companions.

They are very affectionate and love attention. They are very calm when left alone. They are not aggressive towards strangers.

Spinones are very easygoing and adaptable. They love to be part of your family.

They can cost about $20,000.

13. French Bulldog

French bulldog puppy on the walk in forest

The French bulldog is a small breed of toy dog that originated in France. They are known for big heads, short legs, and stubby tails.

Their personalities vary depending on what kind they were bred from. Some are very sweet, while others are more stubborn.

They are very playful and love to play fetch. They are also very agile and fast runners.

They can cost anywhere from $5,000-$14,000.

14. American Eskimo Spaniel

American eskimo spaniel dog resting on grass

The American Eskimo spaniel is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated on the arctic tundra. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and friendliness.

Eskimos are very loving and affectionate. They are good with kids and other animals.

They are very obedient and train easily. They are very independent and need lots of exercises.

They can cost anything from about $7,000.

15. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese mountain dog lying on grass during sunny day

The Bernese mountain dog is a large breed of hound that originated in Switzerland. They are known for having thick coats, huge paws, and a wide chest.

They are very loyal and trustworthy. They are excellent guard dogs. They are very friendly, love attention, and have high energy levels.

They can cost between $9,000-$16,000.

16. Kerry Blue Terrier

Kerry blue terrier standing on the green grass

The Kerry blue terrier is a small breed of dog that originated in Ireland. They are known for their long coat, curly tail, and wrinkled face.

They are very energetic and playful. They are great with children. They are knowledgeable and train easily. They make great watchdogs.

They are very gentle and docile. They do best as only pets.

They can cost around $1,500, which I know sounds cheap. However, they come with very high medical expenses.

17. Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature bull terrier

The miniature bull terrier is a small dog that originated in England. They are known for their short hair, high-pitched bark, and powerful build.

They are very active and playful. They are good with children.

They can cost $3,000-$4,000.

18. Pekingese

Pekingese obediently posing for a photograph

The Pekingese is a small breed of Chinese dog. They are known for being adorable little balls of fluff. They are brilliant and train easily. They love to cuddle.

They are very loving and affectionate. They are reticent and laid back. They are very strong-willed and independent, and they require lots of exercises.

They can cost anywhere from $6,000-$10,000.

19. Bichon Frisé

Bichon frisé fluffy white dog in grass

The bichon frisé is a small breed of French dog. They are known as the “gentle giant” because of their soft fur and cute faces.

They are very social and fun-loving. They are very good with kids and other pets. They are very clever and train easily, and they enjoy playing games.

They are very protective and territorial. And they love to be the center of attention.

They can cost up to $8,000.

20. Maltese

Cute maltese dog sitting in green grass

The Maltese are a small breed that originated in Malta. They are known for their fluffy coats, big ears, and sweet personalities.

They are very affectionate and friendly and are very easy to train.

They are very playful and love attention. They are also quite loyal and protective. They can be very calm and docile and don’t mind getting dirty.

They can cost about $2,000-$5,000.

21. Shih Tzu

Shih tzu in a forest

The Shih Tzu is a medium-sized dog that originated in China. They are known for their small stature, short legs, and sweet personalities. They are also known for their unique wagging tails.

They are very sociable and playful. They are very easygoing, and are also very obedient and trainable. They can be very lovable and affectionate.

They are also very alert and sensitive and need plenty of mental stimulation.

They can cost anything from $4,000-$7,000.

Wrap Up

So there you have it, a good list of some of the most expensive breeds of dog in the world. Not only can they be expensive to buy, but they can also be expensive to look after.

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About the author

Kerry

Kerry White is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Kerry has been writing for PetDT for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners.Kerry has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Kerry knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.