1. BASSET HOUND: $1,200
Basset Hounds, with their eternally solemn expression, are the epitome of ‘puppy dog eyes’. Originally bred as hunting dogs, these short-legged pups are laid-back and friendly. They love nothing more than being with their family and will often try to sneak onto the couch for a cuddle.
2. CHOW CHOW: $1,500+
With their permanent goofy smile, what’s not to love about this giant teddy bear? Known for their cat-like qualities, Chows, who can weigh up to 70 lbs, are independent and don’t like being fussed over. That said, they’re attentive and loyal to their owners and family.
3. IRISH WOLFHOUND: $1,500-$2,000
These gentle giants can grow up to a whopping 89cm in height. Despite their stature, they’re sweet-tempered and unconditionally loyal to their owners. They can be clumsy and take a while to mature so you could be stuck with an adorable, albeit huge, puppy for quite some time.
This sturdy dog was originally used for pulling carts and herding livestock in Switzerland but today is a very pricey pet. Great with children, they can be a little goofy and are eager to please. Best of all they’re affectionate and easy to train. They can grow up to 100lbs, so apartment dwellers steer clear.
5. GERMAN SHEPHERD: $2,500
A highly intelligent and capable working dog, the German Shepherd is a favourite among everyone from farmers to the police. They’re also courageous and loving, making them great for families too. However, they do get bored easily and will bark, chew or dig for attention.
6. PORTUGUESE WATER DOG: $2,500
A popular family dog – former US president Barack Obama has one called Bo – this breed was used by Portuguese fishermen to help them retrieve lost gear, deliver messages from boat to boat and herd fish into nets. These days they still love the water and require an active owner.
7. SALUKI: $2,500
Also known as the Royal Dog of Egypt, these regal dogs were the canine of choice for merchants travelling China’s Silk Road, making them one of the oldest breeds around. Similar to a greyhound, Salukis are long, slim and tall, with males growing up to 71cm tall and weighing 60lbs.
Despite their frown, these adorable pups are actually one of the friendliest breeds. While they look like an impressive guard dog, it takes a lot to rile this sweet-natured pooch. Puppies are playful and energetic but once they reach adulthood they’re happiest snoring on the couch.
9. ROTTWEILER: $2,500-$8,000
Affectionately known as the ‘Rottie’, these solidly built dogs originated from a breed taken to Germany by the Romans where they were used to guard stock and pull meat carts due to their intimidating look and loud bark. Males can grow up to 69cm tall and weigh 132 lbs. Despite appearances, they are placid, devoted and calm with their owners.
10. CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL: $3,000
This breed was developed specifically to resemble the dogs from the courts of the English kings Charles I and II. While they love a belly rub and cuddles, they’re active dogs and enjoy playing in a garden and going for long walks.
11. AZAWAKH: $3,000+
Azawakhs were bred by African nomad tribes as a hunting dog due to their incredible speed – they can reach up to 40 mph, faster than greyhounds. Tall and slim, they can grow up 74cm tall and because of their muscle composition, their bones will always show, even when well-fed.
Small in size, Yorkies come with a big price tag. Despite their tiny stature – they only weigh 7lbs – they like to rule the roost and with such cute faces, they tend to get away with it. They’re adventurous, clever and full of energy.
13. DOGO ARGENTINO: $3,900
Strong and muscular, this athletic dog is best suited to an active owner. While they have a history of being used for fighting and hunting they crave close physical contact with their owners, often lying on your feet or snuggling up close
14. FRENCH MASTIFF: $5,000
Originally bred to be fighting dogs, French Mastiffs are large, strong and fierce – growing up to 75cm tall and weighing 145 lbs. Despite their history, they’re loyal, loving and gentle with children. They faced extinction in some parts of the world during the 20th century and are rare to this day, making them an expensive breed.
15. SAMOYED: $4,000-$10,000
Originally bred to hunt and herd reindeer these giant white fluff balls are actually incredibly gentle. Intelligent, devoted and social. They love attention and need constant companionship. Their beautiful white coat does come at a cost though, as you’ll need to be diligent with brushing and grooming.
16. AKITA: $4,500
Originally from northern Japan, the Akita breed is split into two types – the Japanese Akita and the American Akita. Both fetch high prices as puppies. With a thick coat, these gorgeous dogs are great in colder climates and are highly protective of their owners.
17. LOWCHEN: $4,800-$8,000
The Lowchen, which means little lion in German, is a rare breed with only a few hundred new puppies being registered at official kennel clubs around the world every year. Originally a companion dog to royalty in medieval France and Germany, they are often groomed to resemble a lion.
18. PHARAOH HOUND: $6,500
The Pharaoh Hound hails from Egypt but is also the national dog of Malta. This highly intelligent breed has an extremely rare trait – their nose and ears blush when they’re very happy or excited. They can be stubborn so expect puppy school to be a challenge.
19. CANADIAN ESKIMO DOG: $7,200
Indigenous to Canada, the sledge dog has been part of the Inuit culture for more than 2,000 years. The breed was nearly declared extinct in 1963 when there was only one registered in Canada. There are thought to be only 500 dogs in the United States which is why their price is so high.
20. TIBETAN MASTIFF: VERY EXPENSIVE
This ancient breed is one of the largest dogs in the world and the priciest. In 2013, a rare red Tibetan Mastiff sold in China for $1.9 million. And you’d better have a big house as they can grow up to 160lbs and 84cm tall.
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