When it comes to large dog breeds, their size, strength, and majestic presence often come with a hefty price tag. These dogs are not only impressive in stature but also in the cost of acquiring and maintaining them. From their unique looks and lineage to their specialized care and training needs, these breeds command top dollar. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most expensive large dog breeds, delving into what makes each one so valuable and why they are highly sought after by dog lovers around the world.
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is often one of the most expensive dog breeds due to its rarity and ancient lineage. Originating from Tibet, these dogs were traditionally used to protect livestock from predators like wolves and leopards. Their imposing size, reaching up to 150 pounds, and their majestic, lion-like mane make them highly sought after. The cost of a Tibetan Mastiff can range from $3,000 to $10,000, with some exceptional specimens fetching even higher prices. Their high price is also attributed to their breeding costs, long gestation periods, and the need for experienced handlers to train them properly.
Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier, a rare and powerful breed, can weigh between 80 to 130 pounds. Known for their guarding abilities and intelligence, these dogs are often expensive due to their rarity and training needs. The price for a Black Russian Terrier puppy ranges from $2,000 to $4,000. Their cost is influenced by their breeding requirements, health care, and the need for specialized training. Black Russian Terriers require regular grooming and health screenings for genetic conditions, adding to their expense.
Leonberger
Leonbergers are known for their lion-like appearance and gentle temperament. Weighing between 90 to 170 pounds, these dogs were originally bred in Germany and are highly valued for their size and calm demeanor. The cost of a Leonberger puppy ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. Their expense is due to their breeding requirements, health care, and grooming needs. Leonbergers require regular grooming to maintain their thick, water-resistant coats, and their health care can be costly due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions.
Akita
The Akita, originating from Japan, is a large and powerful dog known for its loyalty and courage. Weighing between 70 to 130 pounds, Akitas are often expensive due to their heritage and the cost of importing them from Japan. The price for an Akita puppy can range from $1,500 to $4,500, with show-quality dogs fetching higher prices. Their cost is also influenced by their training and socialization needs, as well as health care to address common issues like hip dysplasia and autoimmune diseases. Their noble demeanor and striking appearance make them a valued breed.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, an Italian mastiff, is valued for its power and protection abilities. These dogs can weigh between 90 to 110 pounds and are known for their muscular build and intimidating presence. Historically used as guard dogs and hunters, they require specialized training and care, which adds to their expense. The average price for a Cane Corso puppy ranges from $2,000 to $6,000, with show-quality dogs or those with superior lineage commanding higher prices. Their health care and maintenance, including regular veterinary visits and high-quality food, also contribute to their overall cost.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Known for their distinctive, wrinkled appearance and massive size, Neapolitan Mastiffs can weigh between 110 to 150 pounds. Originating from Italy, they were bred as guard dogs and are renowned for their protective instincts. The cost of a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy can range from $3,500 to $5,000. Their high cost is due to their unique look, breeding difficulties, and the extensive health care they require, including potential treatment for common issues like hip dysplasia and heart conditions. Their imposing appearance and loyal nature make them a favorite among dog enthusiasts willing to pay a premium.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs, known for their strength and protective nature, can weigh between 100 to 130 pounds. These dogs are valued for their guarding abilities and loyal temperament. The price for a Bullmastiff puppy ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. Their expense is due to their breeding requirements, health care, and the need for proper training. Bullmastiffs require health screenings for issues like hip and elbow dysplasia and a high-quality diet, contributing to their cost.
Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, a rare Japanese breed, can weigh between 100 to 200 pounds. Known for their power and guarding abilities, these dogs are often expensive due to their rarity and breeding requirements. The price for a Tosa Inu puppy ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. Their cost is influenced by their health care needs, including regular screenings for genetic conditions, and the need for experienced handlers. Tosa Inus require a high-quality diet and proper training, adding to their expense.
Boerboel
The Boerboel, a South African breed, is a powerful and loyal guardian dog. These dogs can weigh between 150 to 200 pounds and are known for their strength and protective instincts. Their rarity outside of South Africa contributes to their high cost, with puppies ranging from $2,000 to $6,000. The expense is also due to their breeding requirements, health care, and training needs. Boerboels require a significant investment in proper socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved and manageable, further driving up their cost.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are famous for their rescue work in the Swiss Alps and their massive size, weighing between 120 to 180 pounds. Known for their gentle and friendly nature, these dogs are costly to maintain. The price for a Saint Bernard puppy ranges from $1,500 to $3,500. Their expenses include high-quality food, regular veterinary care, and grooming needs. Saint Bernards require health screenings for issues like hip dysplasia and heart conditions, adding to their cost. Their large size and friendly demeanor make them a beloved but expensive breed.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org
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