A recent survey indicates that 63.4 million U.S. households own a dog, and the Insurance Information Institute reports that owners typically spend more than $1,000 per year on routine care. Emergency care, health conditions, one-time purchases such as equipment and training, and the initial cost of acquiring a dog can increase that amount substantially.
Generally, larger breeds cost more for food and boarding, while long-haired breeds often require higher grooming expenses. Some breeds need frequent trimming. Training benefits every dog, and for certain breeds it is essential for a peaceful household.
Dogs adopted from shelters and rescues are usually the most budget-friendly option, while puppies from pedigreed bloodlines can command premium prices. Market demand and trends influence the cost of purebreds, so prospective owners should research both the breed and the breeder carefully.
Reputable breeders screen parents for genetic health issues and provide breed-specific guidance on care and expected expenses. Puppies from the same litter may be priced differently based on sex, color, and conformation.
Below are some of the world’s most expensive dog breeds, along with typical price ranges, common health concerns, and notable care considerations.
Saint Bernard
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Price range: $1,000–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, eye disease, spinal, digestive and cardiac problems
Additional expenses: Obedience training
The Saint Bernard is a very large, gentle dog, standing 23–30 inches at the shoulder and weighing 120–180 pounds. Originally bred in the Alps for search and rescue, there are short- and long-haired varieties. Both shed heavily and need weekly brushing; they can drool. Regular exercise is important, and obedience training is recommended because of their size and strength.
Afghan Hound
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Price range: $1,500–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, thyroid and digestive issues
Additional expenses: Frequent bathing and grooming; secure yard
The Afghan Hound is a tall, elegant sighthound (25–27 inches, 50–60 pounds) known for dignity and independence. One of the oldest breeds, it was historically valued as a hunter and status symbol. Their long coat requires regular care, and they tend to be aloof but affectionate on their terms.
Cane Corso
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Price range: $1,500–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, cardiac and digestive conditions
Additional expenses: Obedience and advanced training, secure fenced yard
The Cane Corso is a powerful, athletic breed (23–28 inches, often 110+ pounds). Short-coated but heavy, these dogs require consistent training and daily exercise; without a job they may develop unwanted behaviors. They are protective, calm and require firm leadership.
Clumber Spaniel
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Price range: $1,400–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disease
The Clumber Spaniel is a medium-sized, solid hunting spaniel (17–20 inches, 55–85 pounds) known for loyalty and a laid-back temperament. They shed year-round and can drool; regular grooming helps keep them comfortable.
Pug
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Price range: $1,500–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, eye problems, patellar luxation, breathing issues and Pug dog encephalitis
Pugs are small (10–13 inches, 14–18 pounds) and affectionate, but their facial structure requires regular care of facial folds and attention to breathing issues. They shed frequently despite a short coat and are intelligent but stubborn, needing consistent care and attention.
Portuguese Water Dog
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Price range: $2,000–$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, eye disease
Additional expenses: Regular trimming
Originally a working boat dog, the Portuguese Water Dog is energetic, an excellent swimmer, and eager to work. They stand 17–23 inches and weigh 35–60 pounds. Their coat benefits from regular professional trimming to stay healthy and functional.
Samoyed
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Price range: Around $3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, cardiac and eye disease
Additional expenses: Secure yard, early training, frequent grooming
Samoyeds are high-energy, intelligent dogs (19–24 inches, 35–65 pounds) with a thick double coat that requires daily brushing. Bred in Siberia to herd and pull sleds, they thrive with a job and plenty of exercise.
Bullmastiff
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Price range: $1,500–$3,200
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cardiac disease
Additional expenses: Obedience training
Bred to guard estates, Bullmastiffs are large, calm and protective (24–27 inches, 100–130 pounds). They have a short, dense coat and need moderate exercise along with consistent training to ensure safe integration into family life.
Vizsla
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Price range: $1,500–$3,200
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid, cardiac and eye issues
The Vizsla is an energetic, affectionate hunting dog (21–24 inches, 44–60 pounds) that thrives on activity and attention. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation and often form very close bonds with their owners.
Black Russian Terrier
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Price range: $1,500–$3,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cardiac and eye issues
Additional expenses: Early training, socialization and regular grooming
Large and powerful (26–30 inches, 80–130 pounds), Black Russian Terriers were developed for multipurpose military work. They are loyal, protective and excel in working-dog activities. Their double coat requires frequent grooming and occasional trimming.
Chihuahua
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Price range: $600–$3,600+
Common health issues: Patellar luxation, cardiac and eye disease
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed, typically 5–8 inches tall and under 6 pounds. They come in smooth- and long-coated varieties; long coats need more grooming. Despite their small size, they require consistent care, socialization and attention.
German Shepherd Dog
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Price range: $1,000–$3,600
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disease
Additional expenses: Training
German Shepherd Dogs are highly versatile, intelligent working dogs (22–26 inches, 50–90 pounds). They require physical and mental stimulation and benefit from early socialization and training. Their double coat needs regular brushing, particularly during shedding seasons.
Dogo Argentino
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Price range: $1,500–$3,750
Common health issues: Pigment-related deafness, hip dysplasia
Dogo Argentinos are strong, athletic and protective (24–27 inches, 80–100 pounds). Developed for big-game hunting in the 1920s, they require consistent exercise and training and can serve in many working roles.
Bulldog
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Price range: $3,500–$5,000
Common health issues: Respiratory problems, “cherry eye,” skin infections
Bulldogs are medium-sized, calm and affectionate (about 15 inches, 40–50 pounds). Their facial structure creates health sensitivities that require careful management. Wrinkle and ear care are critical to prevent infections, and they tolerate extreme temperatures poorly.
French Bulldog
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Price range: $2,500–$4,500
Common health issues: Breathing problems, vertebral abnormalities
French Bulldogs are small, playful companions (11–13 inches, under 28 pounds). Their short coats are easy to care for, but they need routine cleaning of skin folds and attention to temperature extremes. They respond well to training and make excellent therapy dogs.
Dogue de Bordeaux
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Price range: $2,000–$5,000
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cardiac disease, allergies
Additional expenses: Early obedience training
The Dogue de Bordeaux is an old French guardian breed (23–26 inches, 100+ pounds). Calm and devoted, they require daily exercise, minimal brushing and consistent training. They are known to be affectionate but persistent in seeking attention.
Tibetan Mastiff
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Price range: $2,000–$5,000
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, low thyroid, seizure disorders
Additional expenses: Early training and containment
Tibetan Mastiffs are large, independent guardians from the Himalayas (24–29 inches, 70–150 pounds). They have a heavy double coat that requires seasonal grooming and need secure outdoor space and firm, experienced handling.
Czechoslovakian Vlcak (Wolfdog)
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Price range: $800–$1,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, degenerative myelopathy
Additional expenses: Secure, fenced yard
Bred in the 1950s by crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves, the Czechoslovakian Vlcak is a high-energy, intelligent working breed that requires experienced owners. They need mental stimulation, consistent training and outdoor activity; nails grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly.
American Staffordshire
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Price range: $1,000–$2,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, skin allergies
Additional expenses: Training
American Staffordshire Terriers are sturdy (17–19 inches) and energetic. They need daily exercise, mental challenges and early socialization to prevent dog-directed aggression. Their short coat is low-maintenance but they benefit from consistent training and interactive play.
American Hairless Terrier
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Price range: $500–$2,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, patellar luxation
The American Hairless Terrier comes in hairless and coated varieties. Hairless dogs require sun protection and are more sensitive to cold. They are energetic, trainable and suitable for owners seeking a low-dander companion, but they still need regular exercise and skin care.
Pharaoh Hound
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Price range: $1,500–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, patella luxation, eye disorders
Additional expenses: High, secure fencing
The Pharaoh Hound is a fast, athletic sighthound that needs daily runs or long walks. They are affectionate companions but can be difficult to recall off-leash due to strong prey drive, so secure containment is essential.
Azawakh
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Price range: $1,000–$2,500
Common health issues: Hypothyroidism, seizures, cardiac issues
Additional expenses: Early training and socialization
The Azawakh is a slim, speedy sighthound from West Africa that requires daily activity and companionship. They bond closely with owners and respond best to positive training methods.
Boxer
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Price range: $1,000–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, cardiac conditions, thyroid issues, degenerative myelopathy
Additional expenses: Training and secure yard
Boxers are energetic, playful and protective family dogs. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, and they benefit from early obedience training.
Bull Terrier
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Price range: $1,200–$2,500
Common health issues: Kidney and cardiac issues
Bull Terriers are independent, energetic and recognizable by their egg-shaped heads. They enjoy canine sports and work but need regular exercise, mental challenges and frequent nail trimming.
Bouvier des Flandres
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Price range: $1,400–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, bloat, eye and cardiac issues
Additional expenses: Grooming and secure yard
Strong and versatile, the Bouvier des Flandres is a herding and farm dog that needs activity and mental stimulation. Its dense, waterproof coat requires regular grooming and upkeep.
Irish Wolfhound
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Price range: $1,000–$2,500
Common health issues: Bloat, heart disease, certain cancers
Additional expenses: Fenced yard
One of the tallest breeds, the Irish Wolfhound can reach nearly three feet at the shoulder and weigh up to 180 pounds. Despite their size, they are usually gentle and calm, but they need regular exercise and careful socialization through 18 months of maturity.
Bedlington Terrier
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Price range: $1,500–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, blood and eye issues
Additional expenses: Professional grooming roughly every two months, fenced yard
Bedlingtons are one of the few non-shedding breeds, but their hair grows quickly and requires regular trimming. Energetic and alert, they were originally used to hunt vermin in mines and later became cherished companions.
Belgian Malinois
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Price range: $1,500–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues
Additional expenses: Early training and structured activity
Highly driven and intelligent, the Belgian Malinois excels in police, military and sport work. They need a job, frequent exercise and mental challenges to remain balanced and content.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Price range: From $2,500
Common health issues: Hip, patella, eye and cardiac issues
Additional expenses: Secure yard
The Cavalier is a small, affectionate toy breed that requires regular brushing and routine ear care. They are excellent lap companions but retain hunting instincts and should be supervised off-leash.
Löwchen
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Price range: $2,000–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip, patella and eye concerns
Additional expenses: Professional grooming every two months
The Löwchen, or “Little Lion,” is an old companion breed that needs regular grooming and positive reinforcement training to prevent excessive barking. It is affectionate, alert and well-suited to attentive owners.
Rottweiler
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Price range: $1,500–$2,500
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, shoulder issues, cardiac concerns
Additional expenses: Training and socialization
Rottweilers are sturdy, loyal and athletic dogs that need daily exercise and firm, consistent training. They excel at work and sports but require early socialization because of their size and strength.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog (PON)
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Price range: $2,000–$2,800
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia
Additional expenses: Grooming, fenced yard, early training
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is energetic and intelligent, needing an hour or more of vigorous exercise daily. Their double coat requires frequent brushing, and they respond well to training and tasks that engage their strong memory and working instincts.