A recent survey shows 63.4 million U.S. households have a dog, and according to the Insurance Information Institute, dog owners spend more than $1,000 annually on routine expenses alone. Add in emergencies or other health issues, and the cost rises dramatically. This excludes one-time expenses such as equipment, training and, of course, the cost of the dog.
In general, larger dogs incur higher costs for food and kenneling than their smaller counterparts. Long-haired dogs tend to have higher grooming costs, though some breeds require frequent trimming. While all dogs benefit from training (and all dogs should know basic commands), with some breeds, training is essential to harmonious living. Dogs from shelters and rescues tend to be the least expensive, while puppies with AKC Champion bloodlines tend to fetch top dollar. Like anything else, changing trends affect the prices of purebred dogs and prospective buyers need to do their research, both on the breed and the breeder.
Responsible breeders screen their dogs for genetic health conditions and offer information about the breed, and routine care and expenses. They may offer dogs for sale for show or as companions (the latter often comes with a requirement that the dog be neutered). Prices of puppies in the same litter may vary depending on sex, colorings and conformation.
These are 32 of the world’s most expensive dog breeds.
Saint Bernard
Price range: $1,000-$3,000
Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, eye disease, spine, digestive and cardiac issues
Additional expenses: Training
The Saint Bernard is a big dog. Standing 23 to 30 inches at the shoulder and weighing 120 to 180 pounds, the breed is known for its gentleness. Named for Bernard of Menthon (Saint Bernard) who ran a hospice for pilgrims on their journey to Rome across the Alps, the breed developed over centuries to be used as search and rescue dogs for people buried under the snow.
