The 10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds

Bringing home a puppy can cost you quite a bit of kibble. Your purebred or designer pup’s hefty price is based on a variety of factors, including their bloodline, rarity, and demand for the breed. 

Even though the most expensive dog breeds will take a bite out of your wallet, all those affectionate kisses and snuggles make your pooch worth every dollar. 

This guide will cover the most expensive dog breeds and why these pups come with higher costs. Check out these elite purebred dog breeds — and a few designer mixes — that remain in demand by dog lovers. 

1. Tibetan Mastiff

With their huge size, lion-like mane, and striking looks, it’s no wonder Tibetan Mastiffs are a popular status symbol for the rich and famous. As some of the most expensive dogs on the planet, the average price for one of these pups is between $2,000 and $6,000, but a few dogs have sold for more than $1 million. This giant breed is typically close with their owner but can be standoffish with strangers. 

Tibetan Mastiffs can weigh up to 150 pounds and have an average life expectancy of 10-12 years. These dogs need to be groomed often, and they’re more likely to have genetic conditions like hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia, which can result in expensive vet costs for owners. 

2. French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds, ranking first on the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) list of popular dog breeds in 2023 (we’re still waiting on the 2024 list). These trendy pups are also the most popular among Pumpkin pet parents, and the average purchase cost runs between $3,500 to $5,000, with some breeders charging as much as $8,000. This breed’s small litters are one reason for the higher prices. Rare fur colors can also make these pups more expensive. 

Frenchies are small dogs that are great for city dwellers due to their low energy levels and quiet nature. French Bulldogs weigh up to 28 pounds and can live 10-12 years with proper care. They’re prone to some health conditions, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS) and skin dermatitis. If a Frenchie is in your future, make sure you’re prepared to provide these brachycephalic dogs with the best care for a lifetime.

3. English Bulldog

Ever since an English Bulldog named Thor won Best in Show at the National Dog Show in 2019, this breed has been in high demand. Fans of this pup also know that their calm demeanor, low maintenance, and friendly personality make English Bulldogs a top family pet. 

The average cost from breeders runs between $2,500 and $4,500 for a puppy. They can only be bred through artificial insemination and must be delivered by C-section. These additional vet costs are what make these puppies so expensive. English Bulldogs weigh up to 50 pounds and live 8-10 years. They’re also prone to BAS and skin problems, like their Frenchie counterparts. 

4. Samoyed

The beautiful Samoyed is known for their gentle nature and fluffy white coat, in addition to their high cost. If you purchase your pup from a breeder, plan for an average cost of $4,000 to $8,000. Samoyeds are great for active families since they tend to be high-energy dogs that love to run. 

This popular breed can weigh up to 60 pounds and live 12-14 years. They need to be groomed often to keep their thick coat healthy. They’re also at risk of health problems that can cost a lot of money, like autoimmune diseases and heart conditions. 

5. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow originates from ancient China and is known for their unique blue tongue and majestic red coat. These dogs are loyal companions whose protective nature makes them good guard dogs. Their average cost usually ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.

Chows can weigh up to 70 pounds and live 8-12 years. Their fluffy coat requires regular grooming, which also prevents offensive doggy odors. Chow Chows are prone to medical conditions, including hip dysplasia, thyroid disorders, and allergies.

6. Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is one of the newer and rarest breeds, only recognized by the AKC in 2021. They’re part of the Toy Group of breeds and grow to only about 8 pounds. Biewer Terriers are good lap dogs and loyal companions, which contribute to the growing popularity of the breed. If you find a breeder, plan to pay between $1,500 and $5,000 for your new pup. 

Like many smaller breeds, Biewer Terriers have a longer lifespan, living up to 16 years. Small dogs can also be prone to dental issues and a potentially serious issue called trachea collapse. Be prepared to give your pet the highest quality of medical care for many years.

7. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog became a star when the Obamas introduced their own “Bo” to the White House. Most breeders will charge between $1,500 to $2,000 for  Portuguese Water Dog puppies. Most of these dogs weigh up to 60 pounds and live 10-13 years.

Portuguese Water Dogs are great for families due to their high intelligence and affectionate personalities. The breed is also hypoallergenic, so even people with allergies can enjoy them sneeze-free. Watch out for medical issues like hip dysplasia and eye conditions. 

8. Newfoundland

Despite their massive jowls and fluffy coats, Newfoundlands do relatively little drooling or shedding. Their friendly nature makes these gentle giants a popular family pet. The average cost for Newfoundland puppies is between $1,000 and $3,500. They can grow up to 150 pounds and live 9-10 years. 

Although they are one of the largest dog breeds, Newfies often consider themselves lap dogs who love to cuddle. Despite their minimal shedding, Newfies do require regular grooming to keep their silky coats in top shape. They’re also prone to medical conditions that may require ongoing care, including hip dysplasia and cardiac diseases. 

9. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Athletic dog lovers who want a true “man’s best friend” are sure to love the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. This working breed loves to have a job to do, but they can also adapt to the activity level of their family. Playful, affectionate, and outgoing, this cold-weather dog breed loves all kinds of climates and playtime. 

If a Swissy is the right dog for you, you’ll pay between $3,000 and $4,000 for a puppy from a breeder. These large dogs weigh up to 140 pounds and live 8-11 years. They’re prone to some medical conditions, including hip dysplasia and urinary incontinence.

10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The royal roots and popularity of this beloved breed raise their price tag. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an ancient breed that received a high spot on the AKC list in 2023. Families find these pups to be adaptable and low-maintenance, with a sweet and gentle nature. The average cost from breeders is between $2,000 and $4,500 for Cavalier King Charles puppies. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels grow to a manageable size, weighing up to 18 pounds when fully grown. They live 12-18 years with proper care. The puppies are likely to have some medical problems that will continue over their long life expectancy, like hip and eye problems. 

Cost of mixed breeds vs. purebred dogs 

The most expensive dogs include some non-purebred pups, too. The popularity of some common breeds has led to “designer” mixes that bring the best of two breeds into one dog. Some common mixed breeds today include Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and Puggles. While the cost of mixed breeds tends to be lower, you can still expect to pay a few hundred to a few thousand dollars when you buy one from a responsible breeder. 

Some studies show that mixed-breed dogs tend to be less prone to health issues than purebred pups. One reason for this is that they have a broader gene pool that allows breeders to breed out some genetic disorders over generations. Owners of mixed breeds may pay lower pet insurance premiums for this reason, although costs can vary. 

Protect your investment and your pet  

A purebred pet is a significant upfront cost, so do your homework before bringing your pup home. Remember that your pup is much more than a financial investment. These furry bundles of joy are an emotional investment for the entire family. 

Once you bring your new pet home, get ready to give them the best care for life with a pet insurance plan. Learn how a Pumpkin Dog Insurance plan can protect your pooch from future accidents and unexpected illnesses.

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