10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Own in 2025

Bringing a dog into your home is a wonderful choice, but it’s important to realize that some breeds demand a bigger financial commitment beyond just the initial purchase. Lifelong costs for certain breeds in the US can easily add up to more than $10,000, including quality food, veterinary care, insurance, and pet supplies.

This guide covers the 10 priciest dog breeds to own in 2025 in America, explaining why they come with steep costs and what future owners should realistically expect.

Understanding Lifelong Costs of Dog Ownership

The expenses for dog care can vary greatly depending on the breed and the individual dog's needs. Key factors affecting costs include:

• Special diet requirements and premium food
• Size-related expenses like extra-large bedding and gear
• Preventive veterinary care such as deworming and flea control
• Health issues that might require emergency treatment or ongoing care
• Insurance costs, which can be particularly high for some breeds

It’s also critical to promote ethical breeding standards by finding reputable American breeders or considering adoption from responsible shelters to ensure the health and wellbeing of your dog.

1. The Great Dane

The Great Dane stands out as an impressive giant dog breed in the US. Their impressive size means feeding large quantities of quality dog food and investing in oversized accessories like beds, harnesses, and collars. Health-wise, Great Danes are known to be at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening condition requiring costly surgery, which makes pet insurance a sensible investment. Many Great Danes in America enjoy homes with plenty of space to stretch out.

2. The English Bulldog

Well-known throughout the US, the English Bulldog often incurs high veterinary expenses from birth due to common needs for cesarean sections. Their shortened snouts cause breathing difficulties and increased susceptibility to skin infections within their folds. Orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia also contribute significantly to long-term medical bills. Insurance premiums tend to be higher for this breed in American veterinary practice.

3. The Basset Hound

Recognizable by their long back and short legs, the Basset Hound faces specific health challenges related to their bone structure, including spinal and joint problems requiring expert veterinary care. Their characteristically long ears need diligent cleaning to prevent infections and mite infestations, a routine American vets recommend for the breed.

4. The Saint Bernard

Famed for their rescue history and giant stature, Saint Bernards have hearty appetites and dense coats that demand frequent grooming. Issues such as hip dysplasia and elbow problems mean vet bills can climb high, typical for giant breeds in the US.

5. The Tibetan Mastiff

The rare and majestic Tibetan Mastiff requires specialized diets and extra grooming due to its thick, weather-resistant coat. This breed’s rarity in America also inflates purchase prices and monthly insurance premiums, which can surpass $50. Tibetan Mastiffs thrive in rural or spacious suburban homes where their guarding instincts can be appropriately channeled.

6. The Newfoundland

Loving and adept swimmers, the Newfoundland demands plenty of food and dedicated care. Prone to hip dysplasia and back troubles, this breed often needs extensive veterinary attention — including surgery — common among large water dogs in the US.

7. The French Bulldog

Though small, the French Bulldog is one of America’s most popular breeds and can be very expensive to maintain. Due to their unique breeding needs involving narrow hips and large heads, many puppies require artificial insemination and cesarean deliveries. High insurance costs and routine veterinary visits for respiratory and orthopedic issues add up quickly.

8. The Irish Wolfhound

The tallest dog breed globally, the Irish Wolfhound needs generously sized living space and a nutrient-rich diet in the US. Their large size drives frequent purchases of oversized accessories and veterinary evaluations for common giant dog ailments.

9. The Bernese Mountain Dog

With its thick tricolor coat, the Bernese Mountain Dog requires regular grooming to prevent matting and skin issues. This breed suffers from a predisposition to cancer, raising veterinary expenses and insurance premiums. Their size also means higher food bills and the cost of large dog gear.

10. The Chow Chow

Known for its distinctive lion-like looks and thick fur, the Chow Chow often encounters chronic health issues such as autoimmune diseases and eye conditions. Their maintenance costs are significant due to medical and grooming needs associated with this uniquely temperamental breed.

Final Thoughts: Committed and Responsible Dog Ownership

Before acquiring any pricey breed, it’s essential to plan for long-term expenses including medical care, pet insurance, nutrition, and grooming. Being a responsible owner means selecting healthy puppies from trustworthy American breeders or adopting through reputable rescue organizations. Adequate financial and emotional preparation ensures your dog’s well-being throughout its life.

Remember, the initial price of purchasing a dog is just the beginning. Sites like Lancaster Puppies connect buyers with reputable breeders in the US, helping to find puppies bred for health and temperament to reduce future vet costs and surprises.