Joseph 
Welcoming a dog into your home brings joy and companionship, but it also comes with financial responsibilities. The cost of owning a dog goes beyond the initial purchase—vet bills, insurance, and food expenses add up over time. According to a recent study some dog breeds are significantly more expensive to own due to their size, health needs, and care requirements. Let’s explore the 10 costliest breeds, based on lifetime ownership expenses.
1. Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance (accident & illness): £2,361.60
- Food expenses (lifetime): £5,789.93
- Total lifetime cost: £8,662.53
Why so expensive?
Known for their large size and guarding instincts, Romanian Mioritic Shepherds require extensive food and care. Their lifetime expenses are 93% higher than the average dog ownership cost.
2. Estrela Mountain Dog
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £2,168.76
- Food expenses: £5,140.87
- Total lifetime cost: £7,820.63
Why so expensive?
Native to Portugal, Estrela Mountain Dogs are large and powerful. Their size drives up food and insurance costs, making them one of the priciest breeds to own.
3. Spanish Mastiff
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £1,968
- Food expenses: £4,824.94
- Total lifetime cost: £7,303.94
Why so expensive?
Spanish Mastiffs are massive, requiring substantial food quantities. Their insurance premiums are high due to their susceptibility to joint issues and large size.
4. Hamiltonstövare
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £2,333.34
- Food expenses: £4,349.40
- Total lifetime cost: £7,193.94
Why so expensive?
This Swedish scent hound requires regular vet visits and insurance due to its active lifestyle, contributing to its higher lifetime costs.
5. Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £1,188.18
- Food expenses: £5,198.82
- Total lifetime cost: £6,898
Why so expensive?
Central Asian Shepherds are large and powerful, leading to higher food consumption. Their size makes them prone to orthopedic issues, increasing insurance costs.
6. Afghan Hound
- Initial cost: £484
- Lifetime insurance: £2,227.68
- Food expenses: £4,074.15
- Total lifetime cost: £6,785.83
Why so expensive?
Afghan Hounds, known for their elegant appearance, require regular grooming, adding to the ownership cost. Their insurance costs are also high due to breed-specific health issues.
7. German Wirehaired Pointer
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £1,861.44
- Food expenses: £4,324.69
- Total lifetime cost: £6,697.13
Why so expensive?
These energetic dogs need a protein-rich diet and regular veterinary care, leading to high food and insurance costs.
8. Tornjak
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £1,260
- Food expenses: £4,871.47
- Total lifetime cost: £6,611.69
Why so expensive?
Native to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Tornjaks are large herding dogs with high food consumption. Their insurance premiums add to their lifetime expenses.
9. Boerboel
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £1,758.24
- Food expenses: £4,342.45
- Total lifetime cost: £6,611.69
Why so expensive?
Boerboels are powerful South African guard dogs, requiring a large food intake and higher insurance due to their protective nature and potential health risks.
10. Münsterländer
- Initial cost: £511
- Lifetime insurance: £2,378.88
- Food expenses: £3,706.88
- Total lifetime cost: £6,596.76
Why so expensive?
Münsterländers are medium-sized hunting dogs with high exercise needs. Their lifetime expenses are driven by insurance premiums and food costs.
Key Takeaway: Owning Large Dog Breeds Is Costly
Larger breeds generally incur higher expenses due to their food intake, health risks, and insurance costs. If you’re considering a large or rare breed, be prepared for the financial commitment. However, the love and companionship they offer often make the investment worthwhile.
FAQs
1. Why are larger dog breeds more expensive to own?
Larger dogs consume more food, require stronger equipment (leads, beds), and are prone to health issues, increasing insurance and vet costs.
2. Are there affordable alternatives to large breeds?
Yes, smaller breeds generally have lower food and insurance costs. Breeds like Beagles or Shih Tzus are more budget-friendly.
3. How can I reduce my dog’s lifetime expenses?
Invest in preventive healthcare, choose cost-effective but nutritious food, and compare insurance plans for the best coverage.
4. Is pet insurance necessary?
While optional, pet insurance can help manage unexpected medical expenses, especially for breeds prone to health issues.
5. What are some cost-saving tips for dog owners?
Buy food in bulk, prioritize regular grooming at home, and seek affordable vet clinics to cut down on expenses.
