PHILADELPHIA — A dog is often considered a man’s best friend. But are you willing to pay the price? Some dog breeds come with a hefty price tag.
The reasons for these high costs can vary, including factors such as rarity, breeding costs, health checks, and other unique characteristics that make these dogs highly sought after. Puppies.com, an online platform for dog lovers, conducted an internal data analysis to reveal the most expensive dog breeds in the United States.
- Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier tops the list with an average price of $3,293.94. These dogs are rare and require extensive health checks. Only 24 listings on the Puppies.com platform have completed health checks, which may contribute to their higher average cost.Their large size and thick double coat require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their appearance, which results in increased costs over time. Due to its strong-willed nature, the Black Russian Terrier may not be the best choice for first-time or inexperienced dog owners.
- Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo ranks as the second most expensive dog breed, with an average price of $2,685.81. Their rarity in the U.S., partly due to their woolly coat, contributes to their high cost. They also require specialized training that significantly contributes to their high price. These dogs are not as common as other breeds, which, due to their limited supply, results in higher costs. These curly-coated dogs are valued for their keen sense of smell and friendly temperament.
- English Bulldog
The English Bulldog ranks third with an average price of $2,579.29. Their distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor make them highly desirable, as reflected by the 7,655 listings on Puppies.com. Unfortunately, their breeding process is complex and often requires a cesarean section due to their large heads, which can make natural delivery challenging. As a result, this further increases their average price.
- French Bulldog
French Bulldogs rank fourth, with an average price of $2,554.85. Their high demand is reflected in the 28,115 listings available on Puppies.com. Their compact size and playful nature make them ideal for city living, but breeding them is both challenging and costly, often requiring special medical procedures. French Bulldogs are at a greater risk than other dogs for having narrowed nostrils, which can increase your veterinary bills which contributes to their high price.
- Biewer Terrier
Biewer Terriers rank fifth among the most expensive dog breeds in the US. These dogs are quite rare due to their small size and often require C-sections, leading to an average price of $2,155.62. Their unique tri-colored coats demand regular grooming, which adds to their high maintenance costs.
According toPuppies.com, the least expensive dog breeds for 2024 are the Pointer, Treeing Feist, Lancashire Heeler, American Black and Mountain Cur. The Pointer costs around $275 on average, while the Mountain Cur is about $171.79. If you are looking for a more affordable option, these breeds provide a budget-friendly option without losing the joy and companionship of owning a dog.
“At Puppies.com, our data highlights the wide range of costs associated with bringing home a puppy, with breeds like the Black Russian Terrier and Lagotto Romagnolo ranking among the most expensive,” A spokesperson at Puppies.com said. “These high prices often reflect the rarity of the breed, the intricacies of the breeding process, and the initial health care investment required. It is crucial for prospective owners to research and understand these costs to ensure they are fully prepared for the financial commitment of owning a dog,” a spokesperson from Puppies.com advised.
If you are not sure what breed is right for your lifestyle, taking the Puppies.com Breed Matchmaker Quiz is fast and reliable. You can take the quiz here.
Puppies.com is dedicated to connecting prospective pet owners with reputable breeders and providing resources for responsible pet ownership. Their mission is to ensure that every puppy finds a loving home and that pet owners are well-informed on how to research, plan for, and care for their furry companions.
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