There is no universal dog breed that’s perfect for every family. Each breed and individual dog is unique, making it important to find the right fit for you. But during your search for that perfect dog, you’ve probably noticed there some expensive dog breeds out there.

However, it’s important to stress that while luxury dogs can make great pets, paying more for a breed doesn’t mean that it’s “better” or will be the right companion for your family. After all, you can’t put a price tag on a loving family dog. What matters most is finding a pet that fits your lifestyle, energy level and household needs. A happy, well-matched dog will bring joy, companionship and loyalty far beyond any monetary value.

Though if you’re looking for a new dog and you’re curious which dog breeds are the most expensive, we rounded up a few high-priced dogs, below. Some are rare dog breeds, some are loyal dogs and some are dogs with big hearts. Of course, the exact cost of each breed will vary depending on your location and the individual breeder. However, no matter if you decide to get an adorable, expensive breed or not, it’s good to keep in mind that these costly dogs will make the biggest impact on your budget. Read on to find out why some dogs are so expensive, what some of the most expensive dog breeds in the world are and which breeds cost the most to buy and maintain. You may be surprised!

Related: 7 of the Prettiest Dog Breeds You’ll Ever Meet, According to Experts

Why Are Some Dog Breeds so Expensive?

Certain dog breeds can run you several thousands of dollars, making them a serious investment. From small expensive dog breeds to big expensive dog breeds, there are a few things that can run up a pet’s price tag. Some of those things include if it’s a rare dog breed, if it’s a purebred dog, considered a designer dog breed and even how its babies come into the world (some have to be born via C-section, which isn’t cheap), points out Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. Veterinarians also point out that some expensive breeds end up being even more pricey due to common medical issues that pop up. However, regardless, many people think these expensive dog breeds are worth the price.

The 6 Most Expensive Dog Breeds in the World

Tibetan Mastiff

Are you interested in a big, expensive dog breed? The Tibetan Mastiff is a large dog with a shaggy coat that can be confused with a Newfoundland. These dogs were originally bred to guard sheep in the Himalayas and this high-priced dog is known for its bravery, along with being one of the rarest dogs in the world.

In fact, a Tibetan mastiff will likely cost you between $2,000 to $6,000, per Cahn. However, a golden-haired Tibetan mastiff puppy reportedly sold for nearly $2 million in China back in 2014. (The breeder said the puppy had “lion’s blood.”)

“The Tibetan Mastiff is expensive, because it’s a rare dog breed and lots of work is involved in breeding and raising such a large, independent animal,” says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. “Keeping healthy, stable bloodlines also requires careful choice and considerable resource. Plus, since they are relative scarce, particularly outside of Asia, that also drives demand and prices up for them”

Breed Stats

• Personality: Reserved, independent, intelligent

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is the most popular dog breed in America—a distinction it’s held for three years. This small expensive dog breed is known for its sweet nature and cheerful personality. However, getting your hands on a Frenchie will cost you, usually around $4,000.

Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? Well, for one, they require special help with giving birth, Cahn says. “Most cannot give birth naturally due to the shape of their head and pelvis,” she says. This luxury breed also tends to have smaller litter sizes, which also drives up the price. Despite their cost, French Bulldogs are “extremely popular” thanks to them being known as affectionate dog breeds and them being compact size, Cahn says. Just be aware that this loving dog breed can also come with high medical bills and that makes them one of the most expensive dog breeds to buy and maintain.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Playful, smart, adaptable

Samoyed

Another luxury dog that makes a great pet? A Samoyed! They are a beautiful breed thanks to their large size and big, fluffy white coat. Plus, this purebred dog also has a great personality, a signature “smile” and are considered dogs with big hearts. It’s no wonder people adore them and find them to be great family dogs even though they are pricey.

While they’re not as common as, say, a Labrador, the AKC lists this breed as the 53rd most popular dog in America. That popularity, along with challenges finding other Samoyeds to breed with, raises the cost of this dog. Exact prices can vary, but a Samoyed may run you anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Friendly, gentle, adaptable

Related: These 6 Green-Eyed Dog Are Cute Devoted Pals, Say Vets

Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog became a household name after the Obamas welcomed their dogs Sunny and Bo to the White House. These curly dogs are friendly and have fun personalities, but they’re also low-shedding, making them a favorite of dog-lovers with allergies.

That “hypoallergenic” label can drive up the price of a Portuguese Water Dog to $3,500 or more, though. However, they are loving dog breeds as this expensive dog breed is known for being energetic, loyal and easy to train, according to Kerry Tarr, DVM, a veterinarian at Lovet Pet Health Care. “They’re a good family dog,” she adds.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Affectionate, athletic, adventurous

Biewer Terrier

Never heard of a Biewer Terrier before? It was just recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2021. This cute toy terrier has long hair and a tri-colored coat for a unique look, and it has an outsized personality that’s adding to its reputation.

But because the Biewer Terrier terrier is a newer breed, there’s a lot of excitement around it—and that’s driving up the price to get one. How much does this small expensive dog breed cost? Well, you can expect to pay about $3,500 for this breed, but since these pups are so new, costs can vary widely. Though, if you have the budget for it, it’s worth keeping this in mind that this costly dog breed has a reputation for being happy-go-lucky, making for a great companion. They also have a long lifespan. That’s why people think this luxury dog makes a great pet.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Intelligent, devoted, amusing

Bulldog

Also known as an English Bulldog, this pricey breed tends to cost more because Bulldog mothers can’t give birth without medical assistance, Cahn says. (It’s due to the size of the baby’s head and the shape of the mother’s pelvis.) Most English Bulldogs also have to be conceived via artificial insemination, which drives up the cost even more.

How much does this expensive dog cost? A purebred English Bulldog will cost you around $4,000 or more. While this breed is known for being sweet, Cahn points out that they tend to have a lot of medical problems as well, like respiratory issues, skin infections and dental disease. That can drive up the cost of ownership even more.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Friendly, courageous, calm

Sources:

This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 1, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.