30 Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World (2025 List)

Some dog breeds come with eye-watering price tags, costing thousands—or even millions—due to their rarity, lineage, or unique traits. From luxurious Cadabomb Okami (Wolfdog) and Tibetan Mastiffs to highly sought-after Samoyeds, these dogs are more than just pets; they are status symbols.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 11 most expensive dog breeds, followed by a list of the top 30 priciest pups. We’ll break down their prices, life expectancy, standout features, and origins. 

Most Expensive Dog Breeds Of 2025

Owning an elite dog breed comes with a hefty price tag, often due to factors like rarity, pedigree, and special care requirements. Here are the top 10 most expensive dog breeds: 

Sr. No.	Dog Breed	Price	Life expectancy	Standout feature
1	​Cadabomb Okami(wolf-Caucasian Shepherd mix)	$5.7 million	12 -15 years	muscular, fluffy, incredible guard
2	Tibetan Mastiff	$2,000 to over $1 million	10 – 12 years	Massive size and thick, lion-like coat
3	Czechoslovakian Wolfdog	Up to $50,000	12 – 16 years	Wolf-like appearance and high intelligence
4	Samoyed	$4,000 to $11,000	12 – 14 years	Fluffy white fur and signature “Samoyed smile”
5	Azawakh	$2,000 to $3,000	12 – 15 years	Slender, elegant build with incredible speed
6	Pomeranian	$1,500 to $5,000	12 – 16 years	Tiny size, fluffy coat, and lively personality
7	Löwchen	$5,000 to $8,000	12 – 14 years	Small size with a distinctive lion-like mane
8	Chow Chow	$3,000 to $8,000	8 – 12 years	Thick double coat and unique blue-black tongue
9	Black Russian Terrier	$3,000 to $5,000	10 – 14 years	Large, powerful build and strong guarding instincts
10	Akita	$4,000 to $8,000	10 – 15 years	Loyal and dignified with a thick double coat
11	English Bulldog	$2,500 to $9,000	8 – 10 years	Stocky build, wrinkled face, and friendly personality

Now, let’s take a closer look at these luxurious dog breeds—why they are so expensive, their standout features, and how to care for them.

1. Cadabomb Okami (Wolf-Caucasian Shepherd mix)

Price	$5.7 million
Life expectancy	12 -15 years
Standout feature	Large, wolf-like, protective, loyal.
Origin	Tibet

Cadabomb Okami, a rare hybrid of wolf and Caucasian Shepherd, also known as Wolfdog, became the world’s most expensive dog when purchased for approximately $5.7 million by Indian breeder S Sathish. 

At eight months, Okami weighs 75 kg and stands 30 inches tall. Sathish, who owns over 150 dog breeds, acquired Okami to introduce this unique breed to India. 

The arrival sparked significant interest, with videos of Okami attracting millions of views online. Okami’s daily diet consists of 3 kg of raw chicken, reflecting his high nutritional needs

2. Tibetan Mastiff

A rare and massive breed, the Tibetan Mastiff is known for its lion-like mane and strong protective instincts.

Price	$2,000 to over $1 million
Life expectancy	10 – 12 years
Standout feature	Large size, thick coat, protective nature
Origin	Tibet

One of the most expensive dog breeds, the Tibetan Mastiff is prized for its rarity and impressive stature. Originally bred to guard livestock, it is independent yet fiercely loyal. The high price is due to its scarcity, especially purebred bloodlines. 

In fact, these dogs have set records in the pet market, with one Tibetan Mastiff selling for nearly $2 million at a luxury pet fair in China. Another puppy previously held the title of the most expensive dog ever sold, fetching $1.5 million in 2011.

Their thick fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and they thrive best in cold climates. These dogs need space to roam and early socialization for proper temperament. Due to their strong guarding instincts, they require an experienced owner who can provide firm training.

3. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

This striking breed is a wolf-dog hybrid with high intelligence and unmatched stamina.

Price	Up to $50,000
Life expectancy	12 – 16 years
Standout feature	Wolf-like appearance, endurance
Origin	Czechoslovakia

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog was developed by crossing Carpathian wolves with German Shepherds for military use. Their exotic wolf-like look and intelligence make them highly desirable, contributing to their high price. 

Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs require extensive exercise and mental stimulation, making them best suited for active owners. They form strong bonds with their families but can be wary of strangers. Proper training and socialization from an early age are essential to ensure they develop a balanced temperament.

4. Samoyed

A fluffy, white, and smiling breed, the Samoyed is one of the most expensive due to its rarity and luxurious coat.

Price	$4,000 to $11,000
Life expectancy	12 – 14 years
Standout feature	Thick white coat, friendly personality
Origin	Siberia

Samoyeds were originally bred by Siberian nomads to herd reindeer and pull sleds. Their stunning white fur, friendly nature, and Samoyed “smile” make them highly sought after. Their thick double coat requires frequent brushing to prevent matting and overheating. 

They thrive on human companionship and need regular exercise to prevent boredom. These affectionate dogs do well in cold climates and are known for being gentle with children. Their price remains high due to careful breeding practices that maintain their distinct features and temperament.

5. Azawakh

A rare African sighthound, the Azawakh is valued for its elegance, speed, and rarity.

Price	$2,000 to $3,000
Life expectancy	12 – 15 years
Standout feature	Slim, athletic build, exceptional speed
Origin	West Africa

Azawakhs are known for their graceful build and unmatched speed, originally bred for hunting in the Sahara. Their rarity in the U.S. and Europe makes them highly expensive. 

These independent dogs need early socialization to be well-adjusted family pets. They are incredibly loyal but can be reserved with strangers. Despite their thin frame, they are strong and energetic, requiring daily exercise to stay healthy. They thrive in warm climates and require a high-protein diet to maintain their lean muscle mass.

6. Pomeranian

Small in size but big in personality, the Pomeranian is a luxurious toy breed with a distinctive fluffy coat.

Price	$1,500 to $5,000
Life expectancy	12 – 16 years
Standout feature	Tiny, fluffy, lively personality
Origin	Germany/Poland

Pomeranians are among the most popular toy breeds, known for their plush coats and lively demeanor. Their small size makes them ideal companion dogs, but their high price comes from selective breeding for rare colors and superior bloodlines. 

They require regular grooming to maintain their signature fluffy coat. Despite their size, they have a bold and confident personality and need proper training to prevent excessive barking. They are well-suited for apartment living but require daily playtime to stay active.

7. Löwchen

The Löwchen, or “Little Lion Dog,” is one of the rarest and most expensive small breeds.

Price	$5,000 to $8,000
Life expectancy	12 – 14 years
Standout feature	Small, lion-like mane, playful nature
Origin	France/Germany

Once favored by European nobility, the Löwchen remains expensive due to its rarity. Their distinctive lion-cut grooming gives them a regal look. Despite their luxurious appearance, they are friendly, playful, and easy to train.

They thrive in homes where they get constant attention and companionship. Due to their fine coat, they require frequent grooming to keep their fur from matting. They are excellent family pets, known for their affectionate and lively temperament.

8. Chow Chow

A unique and ancient breed, the Chow Chow is known for its blue-black tongue and thick mane.

Price	$3,000 to $8,000
Life expectancy	8 – 12 years
Standout feature	Thick coat, blue-black tongue
Origin	China

The Chow Chow is a dignified and independent breed, often compared to a lion due to its thick mane. Their rarity outside of China contributes to their high price. They are known to be aloof yet fiercely loyal to their owners.

Due to their thick double coat, they require regular grooming to prevent shedding issues. They are best suited for experienced owners, as they can be stubborn and need early socialization to develop good manners.

9. Black Russian Terrier

A large, powerful breed, the Black Russian Terrier is both a guard dog and a loyal companion.

Price	$3,000 to $5,000
Life expectancy	10 – 14 years
Standout feature	Large size, thick black coat
Origin	Russia

Originally bred for military and police work, Black Russian Terriers are intelligent and protective. Their high price is due to their complex breeding process, requiring selective pairing of various breeds. They need firm training and early socialization to develop a balanced temperament.

Their thick black coat requires regular grooming, and they thrive in homes with space to move. They are loyal to their families but wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs.

10. Akita

A majestic and loyal breed, the Akita is known for its bravery and dignified nature.

Price	$4,000 to $8,000
Life expectancy	10 – 15 years
Standout feature	Thick coat, loyal nature
Origin	Japan

The Akita is a symbol of good fortune in Japan and is prized for its loyalty and strength. Their high price comes from purebred bloodlines and careful breeding. They require consistent training and socialization to prevent aggression. Their dense coat needs frequent brushing, and they thrive in colder climates. They are best suited for experienced owners who can provide firm leadership.

11. English Bulldog

A stocky and affectionate breed, the English Bulldog is known for its wrinkled face and calm demeanor.

Price	$2,500 to $9,000
Life expectancy	8 – 10 years
Standout feature	Muscular build, wrinkled face
Origin	England

The English Bulldog is one of the most recognizable breeds, with its squishy face and sturdy frame. Its high price is due to the breeding difficulties associated with their large heads and narrow hips, often requiring C-sections. Bulldogs are low-energy and affectionate, making them great apartment dogs.

However, they are prone to breathing issues, so they require a cool environment and moderate exercise. Regular skin fold cleaning is necessary to prevent infections, and their diet should be carefully managed to avoid obesity.

Top 20 Most Expensive Dog Breeds

Continuing our list, starting from number 11, here are some more of the most expensive dog breeds.

Sr.no	Dog Breed	Price	Life expectancy	Standout feature
12	Pharaoh Hound	$2,500 to $3,500	11 – 14 years	Sleek build, known for speed and agility
13	Portuguese Water Dog	$2,500 to $3,500	11 – 13 years	Hypoallergenic curly coat, excellent swimmer
14	Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	$1,800 to $3,500	9 – 14 years	Gentle temperament, expressive eyes
15	Shiba Inu	$1,500 to $3,500	12 – 16 years	Fox-like appearance, independent personality
16	French Bulldog	$2,050	10 – 12 years	Compact body, bat-like ears
17	Greater Swiss Mountain Dog	$2,500 to $3,000	8 – 11 years	Large and powerful working dog
18	Afghan Hound	$1,500 to $3,000	12 – 14 years	Elegant long coat, independent nature
19	Saluki	$2,000 to $3,000	12 – 14 years	Slender, built for speed and endurance
20	Dogo Argentino	$1,500 to $2,500	10 – 15 years	Muscular and strong hunting dog

30 Most Expensive Dog Breeds

Starting from number 21, here are the remaining breeds that make up the list of the 30 most expensive dogs in the world.

Sr.no	Dog Breed	Price	Life expectancy	Standout feature
21	Staffordshire Bull Terrier	$1,500 to $2,500	12 – 14 years	Strong and affectionate, known for loyalty
22	Kangal Shepherd Dog	$1,000 to $2,000	12 – 15 years	Powerful livestock guardian, known for strength
23	Irish Wolfhound	$1,500 to $2,000	6 – 10 years	Tallest dog breed, gentle giant
24	Canadian Eskimo Dog	$1,000 to $2,000	10 – 15 years	Rare Arctic breed, powerful sled dog
25	Norwegian Lundehund	$2,000	12 – 15 years	Unique six toes on each foot, extreme flexibility
26	Spinone Italiano	$1,750	12 – 14 years	Distinctive wiry coat, excellent hunting dog
27	Bernese Mountain Dog	$900	7 – 10 years	Large, affectionate, and excellent working dog
28	Kerry Blue Terrier	$1,500	12 – 15 years	Hypoallergenic curly blue-gray coat
29	Newfoundland	$1,500	9 – 10 years	Giant, gentle, and excellent swimmer
30	Rottweiler	$1,000 to $2,500	9 – 10 years	Strong, confident, and protective breed

Factors Influencing Dog Breed Prices

The cost of acquiring a dog varies widely and is influenced by several key factors:

1. Rarity and Demand

Breeds that are rare or highly sought after often come with higher price tags. For instance, the Tibetan Mastiff can range from $2,000 to over $1 million, reflecting its exclusivity and desirability.

Similarly, breeds like the Cane Corso, popularized by celebrities, see prices up to £3,500 due to increased demand.

2. Lineage and Pedigree

Dogs with documented pedigrees, especially those descending from award-winning ancestors, are typically more expensive.

A German Shepherd with a champion lineage might cost around ₹50,000 or more, while a non-pedigree counterpart could be priced between ₹15,000 – ₹20,000.

3. Health and Maintenance Costs

Breeders who invest in health screenings and genetic testing to ensure puppies are free from hereditary conditions often charge more. This proactive approach can lead to higher initial costs but may reduce future veterinary expenses.

Additionally, the annual cost of dog ownership, including grooming, medical care, and food, averages around $1,400, excluding the initial purchase price. 

4. Cultural and Status Symbolism

Certain breeds are associated with status and prestige, influencing their market value. For example, the Cane Corso, dubbed “XL Bullies on steroids,” has gained popularity among celebrities, driving up demand and prices.

Similarly, breeds like the English and French Bulldogs, Chow Chows, and Samoyeds are considered status symbols, contributing to their higher costs. Understanding these factors is crucial for prospective dog owners, as they directly impact both the initial investment and the long-term commitment required for responsible pet ownership.

Related Reads:

• Best Hunting Dog Breeds For Tracking Prey
• Top Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
• Dangerous Dog Breeds In The World

Conclusion: Cadabomb Okami Is The Most Expensive Dog Breed Worth $5.7 Million

Owning a rare or luxury dog comes with a significant price tag. A prime example is Cadabomb Okami, a rare wolfdog hybrid purchased by S Sathish for $5.7 million. This unique breed, part wild beast and part dog has gained immense attention.

Other expensive breeds include the Tibetan Mastiff, known to cost up to $1 million. Following closely is the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, valued up to $50,000, and the Samoyed, costing between $4,000 and $11,000. 

These high prices are influenced by factors such as rarity, lineage, health considerations, and cultural significance. Prospective owners should be aware of these elements when considering such breeds.

FAQs