Vet list 5 most expensive dog breeds around world – with some up to £1million

A vet has disclosed the top five most costly dog breeds around the globe.

Dog lovers have a vast array of breeds to choose from, ranging from large to small, and from independent and confident to the more reserved types.

Another aspect that varies is the cost of ownership, as different breeds come with varying price tags.

Certain breeds are in high demand due to their looks, rarity, or unique traits, which can drive prices into the tens of thousands or even higher, as reported by dog training resource Hundeo.

Amir Anwary, also known as amir the vet on social platforms, has posted a TikTok video highlighting the priciest dog breeds.

Tibetan Mastiff

Among them is the Tibetan Mastiff, which Amir lists as one of the world’s top five most expensive. According to Hundeo, “This guard dog breed from the Himalayas has a lion-like majesty due to its size and strength, as well as its imposing, dense coat.

“Specimens bred in Tibetan monasteries as guard dogs command very high prices and are considered a status symbol by wealthy Asians.” It’s noted that a male Tibetan Mastiff was sold for the “incredible sum of $1.4 million USD” (£1,081,607) a few years back.

The pet charity PDSA advises that Tibetan Mastiffs are large canines requiring ample exercise to remain content and healthy. These dogs are best suited to larger homes with a spacious, secure garden for them to frolic in as they enjoy being active with their owners.

It’s recommended that this breed requires at least an hour of exercise daily.

Samoyed

Samoyeds are recognised for their fluffy white coats and large personalities. This breed is a Russian-born Spitz that is also utilised as a sled dog, according to Hundeo.

The most desirable Samoyeds are the “pure white animals from old Siberian breeds which can cost up to $9,000″ (£6,953). PDSA notes that because they are “very clever dogs”, this breed can be “challenging to train”.

Due to this, they’re better suited to “experienced owners who are willing to invest the time to maintain their training and routine”. The charity has also alerted owners that they need to be prepared for the high maintenance of Samoyeds’ coats.

Chow Chow

Chow Chows are best known for their lion-like fur and being one of the only breeds to have a blue-black tongue instead of pink. Hundeo stated that this ancient breed, originating from China, is considered to be “headstrong” and can “serve well as a watchdog”, for instance.

PDSA says Chow Chows were originally used for guarding, herding and hunting and they first arrived in Britain in the 18th Century, where they were a spectacle at the London Zoological Gardens. From reputable breeders, prices for a Chow Chow often start at $2,000 USD (£1,545), as per Hundeo.

Lowchen

The Lowchen, a German breed whose name translates to ‘little lion’, is one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. According to PetMD, this 15-pound breed is the “epitome of a small dog with a big personality”, being “intelligent, silly, and bred to be an accommodating companion.”

Dogster reveals that the Lowchen was on the brink of extinction in the early 1970s, with “only 65 left in the world”, making it “one of the world’s rarest and most expensive dog breeds.” Conservation efforts have helped the breed make a comeback, but it remains incredibly rare, with a Lowchen pup costing as much as $12,000 (£9,270).

Azawakh

The Azawakh, a sighthound breed from West Africa, is also among the priciest. Known for its speed, “colossal chest and a tiny waist”, an Azawakh can cost up to $9,500 (£7,339) due to its rarity, says Dogster.

PetMD describes the breed as an “athletic dog breed with high energy, an intelligent mind, and a loyal nature”. Hundeo points out that the price of a dog depends not only on the breed but also on factors such as age, pedigree, breeder, health, and sometimes special training or prizes won.

The cost can vary significantly from country to country.