THE 15 MOST EXPENSIVE DOG BREEDS IN THE WORLD!

The most expensive dog was sold in China back in 2014 for roughly 2 million dollars. It was a Tibetan Mastiff, a popular breed among the elites worldwide. It has a majestic mane that resembles that of the King of the Jungle–the male lion. 

Most people won’t even consider paying that much for a pet, but if you see the splendor of some of the dog breeds covered in this video, you may say, “Shut up, and take my money!” 

From the energetic Shiba Inus to the majestic Tibetan Mastiffs, you’ll finally meet the 15 most expensive dog breeds in the world. 

But will the Tibetan Mastiff really take the top spot? Or is there another breed that can beat its splendor and price? Without further ado, let’s dive in.

 

 

15: Shiba Inu

We will start with the popular Shiba Inu, originating from the land of the rising sun. 

As the descendants of Russia’s ancient spitz, the dogs that accompanied the first settlers of Japan, the Shiba Inu is the most popular domestic canine in the country. And it has a growing market in the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Well-bred Shiba Inus are alert, bold, and good-natured. They are energetic and natural-born explorers. With their keen sense of smell, they can also serve as hunting dogs. This breed was originally bred to catch small games, flush birds, and hunt wild boards. 

Shibas are affectionate and loyal to anyone they deem as part of their pack. However, most don’t get along well with other dogs. They tend to be aggressive to strangers too. 

Stemming from the original spitz breed native to Japan, the Shiba Inu is a small-to-medium-sized hunting dog. It has small pointed ears that can catch small vibrations nearby. Its small and sleek body makes it agile in forests and grasslands. 

Thousands of years ago, the ancestors of this breed were kept for hunting and served as guard dogs of babies and children. Today, it’s one of the most expensive show dogs in the world. Its friendly and intelligent personality makes it a favorite of breeders and groomers from around the world. 

So what makes this dog so expensive? Show dog pups can cost a lot because they are born from parents with good lineage. They come with AKC registration. The color of the puppy also plays a role in its pricing. Red Shiba Inus are the most costly. Medium-sized cream-colored pups are the least expensive. 

Social media also plays a role in hiking the price tag. Some Shibas are celebrities on Instagram and YouTube. One has etched its name on the internet hall of fame. “Kabosu” is the canine behind the massively popular “Doge” memecoin.

This celebrity dog is also the permanent face of the wildly popular DOGE coin, which was made available in 2013. DOGE coin is a stable cryptocurrency with a trading volume in billions, per 24 hours! Social channels and the DOGE coin popularized the Shiba Inu breed so much, that the demand is now way higher than the supply of puppies. 

That’s why we have the Shiba Inu in 15th place and as one of the most expensive breeds in the canine world. 

 

14: Irish Wolfhound

 

This tall and odd-looking canine is one of the most expensive dog breeds in Europe. Believe it or not, some varieties cost more than the cream Shiba Inu, which usually has a price tag of around $1,000. 

Like the Shiba Inu, the Irish Wolfhound was also bred as a hunting dog. It has amazing sight and hearing. As the tallest domestic canine, its slender build can rival that of the Greyhound–the fastest dog. 

Irish Wolfhounds love to chase small game. Their narrow body, deep chest, and long legs help them become lethal hunters. 

But, behind the exterior of this wiry-furred hunter is a gentle and easygoing pet. They make great companions of young children. Despite their origins and ancestry, Irish Wolfhounds make great companions of young children.

 

13: The Portuguese Water Dog

If the other two have the blood of hunting dogs, the Portuguese Water Dog was bred to help sailors catch fish. It isn’t as tall as the Irish Wolfhound, and it isn’t as small as the Shiba Inu. Rather, it’s like a medium-sized dog. This uncommon breed sells for $3,000 to $4,000. 

Originating from Portugal, its roots are quite ancient. According to the Portuguese Water Dog Club, the first-ever written account that mentions the breed dates back to the 1290s. 

That is based on a monk’s report of a sailor rescued by his Portuguese War Dog. The dog swam a great distance, carrying the man with its jaws, to save his life. It had “curly hair, tufted tail, and a black coat.” 

In the past, the Portuguese Water Dog helped fishermen drive fish to their nets. They’re excellent swimmers and their silky coats keep them from being soaked through. 

These dogs were also used to find missing items on reefs and send messages from boat to boat. Their intelligent nature makes them a valuable messenger during times of war and excellent competitors in show dog competitions. 

Aside from those traits, Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic, low-maintenance, affectionate, and adaptable. Also called Porties, the breed can be an excellent working dog, breeder, or household pet. They make great guard dogs too. 

Due to the rarity of this breed, one puppy can fetch a hefty price. It usually costs around $3,000. 

 

12: Shetland Sheepdog

If you want a miniature Collie, then you may find this breed interesting. Collies are known for their beautiful fur and lively attitude. The Shetland Sheepdog is the miniature version of Border Collies. One pup with complete AKC registration can sell for $3,000 and above. 

These dogs were originally bred in the Shetland Islands, the northernmost point in the UK. Farmers use them to herd ponies, sheep, and poultry. On this rocky island, Shetland Sheepdogs are commonly referred to as “Toonies” or “Shelties.” 

First bred to cut cost, the Toonies were strategically bred to become the smaller version of Collies. Due to their compact size, they eat less and are easier to maintain than Border Collies. 

Hillspet wrote, “Shelties are gentle and sweet. They exhibit a pleasing and affectionate personality.” These traits have made them popular household pets. Not only that, Shetland Collies excel in obedience training. This, coupled with the demand from Westerners, has raised the price tag of the breed to what it is today. 

Shelties can be excellent watchdogs too. Although shelties aren’t prone to attacking strangers, they only greet strangers with intense barking. They do nip people they don’t know, but this is only for protecting the important members of their pack. 

 

11: Jack Russel Terrier

Here’s another energetic canine on our list.

The Jack Russell Terrier is almost the same size as the Shiba Inu. It may be one of the smallest terriers, but it’s full of energy. This compact canine has a big personality. 

According to a canine club in America, the breed is a strain of working terrier. They are not actually purebred, and they have a broad genetic make-up. This makes them quite hard to breed. Despite this, the hunting and working dog traits of their ancestors are still intact. This makes the Jack Russel a unique and versatile breed. 

Its small size, pointy ears, and energetic personality make it a highly-priced breed for show dog competitions. It’s easy to train and is extremely affectionate too. 

Jack Russels give a lot of licks and would jump and cuddle their owners upon meeting. The genes of this breed don’t define its price. Instead, its big personality, rarity, compact size, and wholesome behavior determine its price. During non-breeding seasons, one pup can cost $3,000. 

 

10: Frenchton

Here’s another dog with a $3,000 price tag. Although it’s a hybrid, the celebrities love it, greatly increasing its price. A Frenchton pup can cost $3,000 to $3,500. Adults tend to be pricier than pups. 

A cross between a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier, the Frenchton is a designer breed. Designer breeds combine the best traits of the parent breeds. 

Unlike Shelties, Frenchtons rarely bark, making them a desirable pet for apartment and condominium owners. Small in size, this dog is silent but playful. They are inherent people-pleasers and will cuddle with their masters, just like cats. The only noise you may hear from them is their snoring. That’s just adorable, isn’t it?

 

9: Miniature Pinscher

A Miniature Pinscher is a 5 kg small fearless canine with a big personality. To own one of these puppies, you may need $3,000. Adults are often priced at $3,500 and above. 

Referred to as the king of toys, the Mini Pin is small and adorable. According to Dogtime, this breed originated in Germany. The dogs were bred to minimize and control the rodent population in German farms. 

Even today, pest exterminators still use pinschers to kill rats. With their size, they can crawl underneath heavy farm machinery and rat holes. Ordinary exterminator dogs can’t do that. 

Mini pins don’t bark excessively. That’s why they’re quite suitable as apartment pets. Their small size means less fur shedding as well. Their sleek black fur is easy to groom and shiny to look at. 

Mini Pins have Doberman blood running in their bloodstream. Doberman dogs are expensive as well. One pup can cost $2,500. Breeding Dobermans into progressively smaller sizes resulted in the creation of the Miniature Pinscher. 

 

8: Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers or “Yorkies” rank number 10 in the AKC list of the most popular dogs in the world. Yorkies are intelligent, bold, courageous, and confident little dogs. 

It’s one of the smallest terrier breeds. The maximum size of Yorkies is just 7 pounds! Although Yorkies are small in size, they are feisty, energetic, affectionate, and domineering. 

Young Yorkies with a good pedigree and the offspring of AKC champions are the most expensive Yorkshire terriers. To get a well-bred Yorkshire terrier, you should go to a professional breeder. This ensures that you’ll get a Yorkie puppy with a good pedigree. 

Yorkies are used in fashion, like Chihuahuas and Papillons. Many use them as accessories when going shopping or having a makeover. Small dogs like Papillons, Chihuahuas, and Yorkies are often associated with wealth. 

 

7: Afghan Hound

Hailed as one of the most beautiful members of the dog family, Afghan Hounds have flowing hair and curly tails. They need daily brushing because of their silky coats.

Usually, the tag price of an adult Afghan hound is around $7,000.  

Like the Mini Pin, Afghan Hounds are often associated with wealth. English and French owners tend to showcase these canines in gatherings and shopping districts. 

Because of their majestic appearance, many Afghan Hounds are entered in show dog competitions. 

Distinguished by their fine and silky coat and bushy tail that forms a ringlet at the tip, Afghan Hounds are selectively bred for their unique features. Known locally as Sag-e Tazi, these dogs can learn quickly if given positive learning techniques. 

 

6: Pharaoh Hound

Locally known as “Rabbit Dog” in Malta, the Pharaoh Hound changed little in the last 5,000 years. It’s among the oldest domestic breeds in existence. Although the breed was officially acknowledged in 1963, archaeologists say that this dog was developed in 4,000 BC. This is depicted on numerous Egyptian artifacts. 

These dogs are rare. Today, most breeders of the Pharaoh Hound live in Malta. 

A Pharaoh Hound puppy usually costs $7,000. The price of adults ranges between $7,500 and $9,000. 

The Phoenicians brought the breed to Malta, from Egypt. The ancient Egyptians called these dogs “Kelb tal-Fenek,” which means “Dog of the Rabbit.” 

Pharaoh Hounds seldom bark and aren’t prone to aggression. This is why they could be great pets for kids. Although Pharaoh Hounds cost a lot, they are considered low-maintenance pets. Pharaoh Hounds just need a good place to sleep, healthy food, vet checkups, and lots of love. 

 

5: Canadian Eskimo Dog

Less than 300 Canadian Eskimo Dogs remain in the world. This breed has a grim past, but breeders are making its numbers bounce back. In the 1960s, Eskimo Dogs nearly faced extinction. This, coupled with their pleasing behavior, is why they’re among the most expensive dogs in the world. 

The Canadian Eskimo Dog is locally known as the “Inuit dog.” It’s a large canine. Adults usually weigh between 65 and 100 pounds. This is within the healthy weight for the breed. Its appearance is quite similar to huskies and malamutes, with pricked ears and amber eyes. Blue-eyed Inuit dogs signify impurity. This means that it isn’t purely bred. 

In the past and even today, Canadian Eskimo dogs are working canines. They work well in a pack. These dogs are friendly to people and could become great domestic pets. However, they need regular exercise and walking routines, or they may develop obesity and aggression. 

This breed requires daily exercise or they may chew on furniture and start to dig lawns. They also need human interaction. 

Canadian Eskimo Dogs are very affectionate and vocal. They’re ideal for people who want large, furry, and active dogs. Inuit dogs love to drag sleds and join in backpacking activities. 

 

4: Rottweiler

Rottweilers, or Rotties, are very sociable. They seek excessive attention from their owners. They are very good companions for children, teenagers, and adults. Despite their size, Rottweilers are easy to take care of. They’re low-maintenance and short-haired dogs.  

Rotties are large dogs. Males can reach up to 30 inches and weigh 50 plus kilograms. Their muzzles are strong and square. Their tails are very short. 

Like other large dog breeds, Rottweiler pups mature slowly. They only reach their full size after three years. Adults have broad chests, and they become massive with age. 

Well-socialized Rotties can get along well with people and other dogs. Unless provoked, these dogs are not prone to aggression. 

Rottweilers just need plenty of exercise, like walking, swimming, and running down the stairs. Coat care is quick and minimal. In most cases, their self-grooming is enough. And like the other breeds on this list, Rotties can become excellent show dogs because of their intelligence. 

 

3: Azawakh 

Although the breed was just established recently, it has ancient origins. It’s one of the most expensive dogs in the world. Azawakhs are common in Mali, Niger, and Azawagh, but they’re rare in the United States. 

Today, one Azawakh puppy costs $9,000, according to The Dog’s Digest. 

These dogs are lean and muscular. Slim and elegant, the Azawakh’s muscles and bone structure show through thin skin. Their thin coat and short hair make them susceptible to cold, but they thrive well in hot environments. 

As the descendants of hunting dogs, Azawakhs can recover quickly from injuries. And they only have few health conditions too. They typically live between 12 and 15 years. The sighthound hails from the Sahel region. This biogeographic realm stretches from the Sahara Desert to the Sudanian savanna. 

In 2019, AKC executive secretary Gina DiNardo said, “This wonderful dog breed has been around for more than a thousand years. We’re delighted to introduce it to dog lovers in the United States.” 

 

2: Tibetan Mastiff

Although the most expensive dog ever sold, “Big Splash,” is a Tibetan Mastiff, the breed only sits at number two. 

Tibetan Mastiffs (TMs) are calm and quiet, despite their size. They aren’t prone to aggression and males can reach up to 70 kilograms. They are friendly to people, but they can be fierce guardians. 

In Tibet, their country of origin, Tibetan Mastiffs are bred as guard dogs for sheep and goats. With their size, they can fend off bears, wolves, and snow leopards. In the 1900s, the breed nearly vanished because they had become too expensive to own. 

Aloof, observant, and imposing, Tibetan Mastiffs are excellent guard dogs. Still, these dense-coated gentle giants are affectionate and mellow around their owners and those they deem part of their pack. 

Despite their size, TMs are agile and light-footed. They meet perceived threats with great agility. Their expressive brown eyes and majestic mane make them look sagacious and fierce. 

When it comes to health, this breed has few genetic conditions. TMs are relatively healthy and they don’t get sick often. With age, these dogs may develop eye anomalies and hypothyroidism. 

A Tibetan Mastiff pup can cost $9,500 and above. 

 

1: Samoyed

At the number one spot is the Samoyed. This is among the world’s rarest dog breeds. Perhaps, this is why it’s the most expensive. The breed originates in Siberia and is known for its kind and eager to please behavior. Like the Tibetan Mastiff, Samoyeds are sagacious and loving. 

The price tag of an adult Samoyed is usually around $10,000. 

But they like to roam and will run away when the opportunity arises. This is mainly due to their wild heritage. Like the high-priced Azawakh, the Samoyed is also an ancient dog. The oldest archaeological remains of this dog are 2,000 years old. The ancient arctic lineage of wild Siberian huskies lives on in the Samoyeds. 

Samoyed’s affectionate and friendly disposition makes them shabby guard dogs. An aggressive Samoyed is quite rare. If you see one, it may not be purebred. Its happy expression has made it earn the nicknames “Smiley Dog” and “Sammie Smile.” 

A well-breed dog is always expensive. The gender and purity of the genes are the biggest factors that influence the price of the 15 most expensive dog breeds. Females are often more expensive than males because they have more desirable traits and greater breeding potential. 

 

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