Cheapest & Most Expensive Dog Breeds UK
Cheapest & Most Expensive Dog Breeds UK
January 18, 2024
Dogs, often deemed man’s best friend, come in various shapes, sizes, and temperaments. While the love and companionship they offer are priceless, certain breeds stand out for their elegance, rarity, and, consequently, a higher price tag. In the UK, which is known as a nation of dog lovers, the market for purebred dogs has led to the emergence of some breeds with considerable costs.
When considering a dog, it’s crucial to prioritise responsible breeding practices, health screenings, and the wellbeing of the dog over cost. High expenses should be justified by the breeder’s commitment to the health and temperament of the dogs. Also remember that while the initial cost of acquiring a dog is a consideration, responsible ownership involves ongoing expenses for veterinary care, nutrition, grooming, and other needs. Additionally, adoption from shelters or rescue organisations is always a valuable and humane option to consider.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most expensive dog breeds in the UK, unpacking the charm and uniqueness that make them not only coveted but also some of the most pricey canine companions.
English Bulldog
Average Cost: £2,000 – £5,000
The English Bulldog, with its distinctive wrinkled face and muscular build, is a beloved breed known for its charming, docile nature. Despite their appearance, Bulldogs are gentle, making them excellent family pets. Originally bred for bull-baiting, they’ve evolved into affectionate companions.
Health considerations, including respiratory challenges due to their flat faces, contribute to their higher cost, emphasising the importance of responsible breeding and quality care for these lovable, iconic dogs. They often require artificial insemination and cesarean sections due to their large heads and narrow hips.
Samoyed
Average Cost: £2,000 – £6,000
The Samoyed, with its fluffy white coat and perpetual ‘Sammy smile’, is a captivating breed renowned for its friendly demeanour. Originating from Siberia, they were integral to nomadic tribes, herding reindeer and pulling sledges. Samoyeds are known for their adaptability and sociability.
The breed’s high cost is attributed to their popularity, maintenance of their double coat, and the demand for well-bred, healthy dogs. Beyond their striking appearance, Samoyeds are cherished for their loyalty and playful nature, making them beautiful companions.
Tibetan Mastiff
Average Cost: £5,000 – £10,000
The most expensive breed of dog on this list is the Tibetan Mastiff. This majestic and ancient breed commands attention with its imposing size and lion-like mane. Originally bred as guardian dogs in the Himalayas, they are renowned for their protective instincts. The breed’s rarity, coupled with its historical significance, contributes to the elevated cost. It is actually known as the world’s most expensive dog breed, with the most expensive dog ever sold being a $1.5m Tibetan Mastiff.
Tibetan Mastiffs are independent and reserved, often forming deep bonds with their families. Their aloof demeanour belies a loyal and courageous nature. These unique characteristics, along with their regal appearance, make Tibetan Mastiffs not only sought-after companions but also guardians with an innate sense of duty and devotion.
Rottweiler
Average Cost: £1,000 – £8,000
The Rottweiler, a robust and versatile working dog, is celebrated for its strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Originally employed by the Romans for herding and protection, they’ve evolved into cherished family companions. The breed’s cost varies due to factors like pedigree, health screenings, and training.
Rottweilers are known for their unwavering loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent guardians. With proper training and socialisation, these dogs exhibit a gentle disposition with their families, challenging any misconceptions about their intimidating appearance.
Chow Chow
Average Cost: £1,500 – £8,000
The Chow Chow, an ancient Chinese breed, is known for its distinctive lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. Revered for their dignified and aloof nature, Chow Chows are beloved for their independence. Their high cost is influenced by their unique appearance, grooming needs, and the demand for well-bred specimens.
Originally employed as hunting and guard dogs in China, they carry an air of regality. Chow Chows form strong bonds with their families and, despite their reserved demeanour, can be affectionate. Their historical significance and striking presence make them not just pets but living symbols of cultural heritage and canine elegance.
French Bulldog
Average Cost: £1,500 – £10,000
The French Bulldog, with its bat-like ears and compact size, exudes charm and has become one of the most sought-after breeds globally. Their friendly disposition and adaptability make them ideal pets, particularly for urban living. The breed’s high cost is driven by its popularity, compact size, and the demand for responsibly bred dogs.
French Bulldogs, despite their small stature, possess a robust and affectionate nature. They are characterised by their endearing personalities and have seamlessly transitioned from historical ratting dogs to beloved lapdogs, captivating hearts with their unique appearance and delightful temperament.
Afghan Hound
Average Cost: £1,500 – £7,000
The Afghan Hound, a breed of elegance and grace, is instantly recognisable with its flowing coat and regal presence. Originating from Afghanistan, these hounds were historically used for hunting in the mountainous terrains. The breed’s cost is influenced by its striking appearance and the grooming demands of its silky coat.
Afghan Hounds are known for their independent nature and gentle disposition. With a dignified demeanour and an aristocratic allure, they stand as a testament to the timeless beauty and resilience found in one of the oldest and most treasured dog breeds.
Irish Wolfhound
Average Cost: £1,500 – £6,000
The Irish Wolfhound, a giant and gentle breed, commands attention with its towering stature and noble presence. Historically used for hunting wolves and elk, these dogs exhibit both strength and grace. Their high cost is influenced by their size, potential health considerations, and the responsibility associated with breeding such large dogs.
Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them excellent companions. Although they’re considerable in size, they have a gentle temperament and are very loyal, embodying the perfect balance of strength, elegance, and affection in a canine companion.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Average Cost: £1,000 – £4,000
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a small and charming breed, captures hearts with its friendly personality and expressive eyes. Named after King Charles II of England, these dogs boast a regal heritage. The breed’s moderate cost is influenced by its popularity.
Cavaliers are known for their affectionate nature and adaptability, making them ideal family pets. Their silky, medium-length coat requires regular grooming. Cavaliers thrive on human companionship and have a sweet temperament, making them delightful company and emblematic of the spirit of canine companionship.
Saluki
Average Cost: £1,000 – £7,000
The Saluki, often hailed as the ‘Royal Dog of Egypt’, is a graceful and ancient breed known for its speed and endurance. Originally bred for hunting in the deserts, Salukis are recognized for their elegant appearance and independent spirit. Their elevated cost is attributed to their rarity.
Salukis form deep bonds with their families but maintain a certain aloofness. With their streamlined build and athletic prowess, they continue to be popular, with a harmonious blend of beauty, history, and a regal, free-spirited attitude.
Dogue de Bordeaux
Average Cost: £1,500 – £8,000
The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is a powerful and imposing breed known for its distinctive wrinkled face and muscular build. Originating from France, these dogs were historically used for various tasks, including guarding estates. The breed’s high cost is influenced by its size, rarity, and potential health considerations.
Dogues de Bordeaux are loyal and gentle, particularly towards their families. Although they may seem imposing, they often have a calm and affectionate demeanour, with a delightful blend of strength, devotion, and a gentle temperament.
Pharaoh hound
Average Cost: £1,500 – £7,000
The Pharaoh Hound, often called the ‘Blushing Dog’ due to its unique trait of blushing when excited, is a sleek and agile breed with roots tracing back to ancient Egypt. With an elegant build and remarkable hunting skills, Pharaoh Hounds are relatively rare, which is why they come at a higher cost.
These dogs are known for their affectionate and sociable nature, forming strong bonds with their families. With a striking appearance and a friendly disposition, the Pharaoh Hound exemplifies the enduring charm and adaptability of ancient canine breeds in the modern world.
Leonberger
Average Cost: £1,500 – £8,000
The Leonberger, often referred to as a ‘gentle giant’, is a majestic and large breed known for its friendly disposition and thick, water-resistant coat. Originating from Germany, these dogs were bred to be both working and companion animals. The breed’s cost is influenced by its size, gentle nature, and potential health considerations.
Leonbergers are renowned for their loyalty and adaptability, so they make good family pets. They are often described as affectionate and patient, showing a perfect blend of strength, warmth, and companionship in a beloved canine friend.
Shiba Inu
Average Cost: £1,000 – £4,000
The Shiba Inu, a small and spirited Japanese breed, captures hearts with its fox-like appearance and confident demeanour. Originating from Japan, these dogs were initially used for hunting small game. They are known for their independence and agility.
Shiba Inus possess a bold personality, often described as ‘Shiba-sass’, and their loyal nature makes them dedicated companions. With their charming looks and abundance of spirit, Shiba Inus continue to enchant dog enthusiasts, with a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary charm.
Australian Shepherd
Average Cost: £800 – £3,500
Last on the list of most expensive dog breeds is the Australian Shepherd. Despite its name, this is an American-bred herding dog known for intelligence and agility. With a striking coat and charming eyes, Australian Shepherds also excel in various dog sports. Their moderate cost is influenced by their versatility, herding capabilities, and appealing appearance.
Aussies are renowned for their loyalty, quick learning, and energetic nature. Whether participating in agility competitions or providing devoted companionship, Australian Shepherds stand out as not just working dogs but also affectionate family members. They have the perfect balance of intelligence, athleticism, and unwavering devotion.
Boxer
Average Cost: £1,000 – £4,000
The Boxer, with its distinctive square head and strong, athletic physique, is a breed admired for its loyalty and boundless energy. Originally bred as hunting and guard dogs, they have evolved into affectionate family companions. Their moderate cost reflects their popularity and versatility in various roles, from police work to therapy dogs.
Boxers are known for their playful nature and protective instincts, making them not only delightful pets but also reliable guardians. With their exuberant personalities and expressive faces, Boxers continue to be popular for their strength, intelligence and companionship.
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