Ask any Dog Owner and they’ll tell you their furry friend is priceless. From their cheeky antics to the unconditional love they give everyday, it’s impossible to put a dollar value on a furry family member. That said, the launch pad for Dog Ownership often comes with a high price tag. You may get lucky and find your dream dog at a local animal shelter, but if you’re set on a certain breed, you could pay thousands (or tens of thousands) for the privilege. And don’t even get us started on grooming, pet supplies, and vet bills! Here are six of the most expensive dog breeds money can buy.
#1: French Bulldog
These adorable pointy-eared pups have exploded in popularity in recent years, so it’s not surprising that they’ve become one of the most expensive dog breeds. Beloved for their friendly, playful, easygoing nature, French Bulldogs can cost anywhere between $4,000 and $15,000.
While any French Bulldog Owner will tell you their pupper is well worth the money, it’s important to consider other costs. Frenchies are what’s called a brachycephalic breed. This simply means they have a shorter skull and flatter nose, which, though cute, can lead to certain health issues. If your heart is still set on a Frenchie, we’d recommend investing in a premium pet insurance policy.
#2: Cavoodle
They’ve quickly become one of Australia’s most popular dog breeds, and for good reason! The Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel cross Poodle) is adorable, smart, and lively. Part of what makes them so popular is their curly, hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat. As such, you may find yourself spending between $4,000 and $10,000 for a well-bred Cavoodle.
Fortunately, like many other mixed breeds, Cavoodles tend to be relatively healthy. Outside of the initial spend, the most you’ll likely spend is on grooming, toys, and quality dog food. And, if you ask us, that’s money well spent.
#3: Saluki
Is it a horse? Is it a supermodel? Nope, it’s a Saluki. These statuesque doggos are proof that beauty doesn’t come cheap. These Middle Eastern sighthounds are so rare that there are only a few breeders in Australia, with prices starting from $6,000. However, certain factors including country of origin and bloodline can add thousands more.
If you do manage to get your hands on one of these beautiful creatures, you’ll want to hold tight. Salukis have very high prey drives and will run and run if you let them. It’s recommended that they get at least one long walk per day. To meet their high exercise requirements, we suggest hiring an experienced Dog Walker for some extra help.
#4: Samoyed
Not only are they one of the floofiest dog breeds, but Samoyeds also happen to be one of the most expensive dog breeds. For those wanting to add one of these delightful furballs to their family, you’re looking at a minimum of $5,000 for a purebred.
Originating in Siberia thousands of years ago, Samoyeds were traditionally used to hunt, herd reindeer, and pull sleds. Despite their hardcore job description, though, Sammies are friendly, caring, playful, happy-go-lucky pups. If you’re willing to put up with a lot of fur, they’ll reward you with endless love and plenty of their famous smiles.
#5: Chow Chow
Keeping the floof train rolling, the Chow Chow is one of the most unique-looking dogs you’ll ever see. The Chinese name for the Chow Chow literally translates to ‘puffy lion dog’, and we couldn’t have put it better ourselves. Of course, that distinctive look doesn’t come cheap. In fact, these blue-tongued, lion-esque dogs often cost in excess of $5,000. This is partly because there are so few breeders in Australia.
You might assume, given their teddy bear-like appearance, that Chows love a good cuddle on the couch. Surprisingly, these thick-coated pups are actually quite aloof and independent, often taking a while to warm up to new people.
#6: Miniature Dachshund
A tiny doggo doesn’t necessarily mean a tiny price. For a well-bred Miniature Dachshund, you’re looking at a minimum of $3,000 (with many going for over $7,500). What they lack in size, however, they certainly make up for in personality. Don’t let their cutesy looks fool you – a mini Doxie can be a fearsome beast!
Miniature Dachshunds make wonderful pets, thanks to their strong sense of loyalty. That said, prospective Owners should know what they’re getting themselves into. Underneath their cute exterior is a long history as a hunting breed, and as such, they can be prone to aggression. Properly trained and socialised, however, they’re sure to make the perfect companion.
How to save money if your dream dog happens to be one of the most expensive dog breeds
We all have that dream dog breed in our heads, but for most of us, $10,000 is a little out of reach. Even so, there are compromises you can make that could save you thousands while still landing you the ultimate fur-ever friend.
- Check your local shelter. It’s always worth enquiring at a few shelters and leaving your name so you can be contacted if your dream dog becomes available. Trust us, it’s been known to happen!
- Consider an ex-breeding dog. Everyone loves a puppy, but that puppy’s mum or dad needs a home too! Many responsible breeders will put their ex-breeding dogs up for adoption once they’ve been retired. For female dogs, breeding age is between two and six years old, but they can be retired at any time, so it’s worth keeping an eye out
- Get pet insurance. If all else fails and you simply can’t resist forking out for that dream breed, insurance is a must. Even after that huge initial purchase, you can still save over the long term by investing in comprehensive dog insurance
- Try a similar breed. Whether you’re in love with their personality or their looks, many dog breeds have more than a few doppelgangers. For example, those who love the calm demeanor and apartment-friendliness of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel should consider a Greyhound. Despite their vastly different sizes and looks, these two breeds share very similar personalities
