Here’s Why These Expensive Dog Breeds Are A Complete Waste Of Money
Don’t be fooled by the adorable faces and charming personalities of these pricey pups. While they might look like the dog of your dreams, owning one could turn into a costly nightmare. From sky-high vet bills to health issues that drain your wallet, these expensive breeds are often overrated and might leave you questioning whether they’re truly worth the investment. If you’re considering adding one of these breeds to your home, you better brace yourself for more than just a heavy price tag.
1. French Bulldogs Are A Total Money Pit For Health Issues
French Bulldogs are the ultimate cute face on Instagram, but they’re a nightmare for your bank account. These dogs might cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, but their brachycephalic face structure comes with serious health risks. You’ll be constantly battling breathing issues, and on top of that, they’re prone to a range of skin, ear, and eye problems. Vet bills for airway surgery can easily cost you $3,000, and that’s not even the half of it. As Prudent Pet warns, buying one of these pups isn’t just a financial investment—it’s a medical nightmare. And with their skyrocketing popularity, the price tag on these dogs is only climbing higher.
2. English Bulldogs Are Anything But Low-Maintenance
Oh, the lovable English Bulldog—who could resist that wrinkled face? But before you fall in love with those sweet eyes, let me give you a dose of reality. These dogs are anything but low-maintenance. They can’t breed or give birth naturally, and they’re plagued with breathing problems, joint issues, and skin infections. By the time they reach middle age, they’ll likely be immobile and need constant care. With their expensive medical needs and shorter lifespan, you’ll likely end up paying much more than what you bargained for. Prices for English Bulldogs typically start around $2,000 and can go well above $4,500, as The Insurance Emporium highlights.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Aren’t All Cuddles And Cuties
These sweet little spaniels are undeniably charming, but be prepared for the health rollercoaster ride. While they might steal your heart with their affectionate nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to severe heart issues, with over 50% of them developing heart disease by the time they reach 10. They also suffer from syringomyelia, a painful condition involving fluid-filled cavities in the brain, and luxating patella. If you’re thinking of investing between $1,600 to $3,750 for one of these cuties, remember that the hefty upfront cost could be just the beginning of your financial headache. According to Rover, ongoing medical expenses often far surpass their initial cost.
4. Rottweilers Are High-Cost, High-Risk Investments
At first glance, Rottweilers are impressive, powerful dogs, but the high costs involved in owning one can leave your wallet begging for mercy. Sure, the initial price may seem reasonable, ranging between $1,500 and $4,150, but their health risks are anything but. Rottweilers are susceptible to numerous diseases, including hip and joint issues, and cancer. They also tend to rack up the highest pet insurance claims, which means that constant medical care will eat away at your finances. With some breeders asking as much as $5,000 for top bloodlines, you’re looking at a big financial commitment, warns BuzzFeed.
5. Designer Doodle Breeds Aren’t What They Seem
Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Cockapoos might look like the perfect family dog, marketed as hypoallergenic and easy to train. But, trust me, you’re not getting what you think. First of all, they’re not as hypoallergenic as advertised, meaning you could still face allergy issues. On top of that, their traits can be wildly unpredictable, especially with poor breeding practices that don’t always result in the best health outcomes. With a high price tag often reaching over $2,000 and sometimes even $5,000 for “designer” versions, these mixed breeds might leave you feeling like you paid a premium for a dog that’s more trouble than it’s worth. Rocky Kanaka nails it when they highlight that these dogs can be a lot more hassle than you’re led to believe.
6. Belgian Malinois Are Intense And Require Expert Handling
The Belgian Malinois, often mistaken for a German Shepherd, is a fantastic working dog—but not the right choice for the average pet owner. These dogs are incredibly intelligent and energetic, and they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. While they might be trained to excel in various tasks, like police or military work, that doesn’t make them ideal for the average household. You’ll be signing up for intense training sessions and constant activity. Prices for Belgian Malinois typically range from $1,500 to $3,500, but for highly trained dogs, the cost can soar even higher. As Tote Hunde warns, this breed demands more than just a backyard.
7. Alaskan Malamutes Are A Nightmare For First-Time Owners
Malamutes might look like adorable furry giants, but they are some of the hardest dogs to handle, especially for new owners. These dogs are known for their stubbornness and strong independent streak, meaning that training them will take patience, consistency, and a lot of energy. They’re also escape artists, so you’ll need to secure your yard like Fort Knox. Combine their high maintenance with heavy shedding, and you’ve got yourself a dog that can leave you wondering why you didn’t think it through. Malamutes typically cost between $1,000 and $2,200, but high-end breeders may charge even more. According to PetMD, these dogs can be overwhelming for the unprepared.
8. Samoyeds Are So Much More Than Just Fluffy Faces
Samoyeds are renowned for their stunning white coats and their trademark “Sammy smile,” but owning one is a full-time job. These dogs have a ton of energy, and if they’re not exercised regularly, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves—none of which will be good for your furniture. Their thick coat requires constant grooming, and that’s just the start. Samoyeds typically cost between $2,000 and $3,500, and professional grooming adds to the expense. PetMD highlights these concerns about this demanding breed.
9. Chow Chows Aren’t As Cuddly As They Look
Chow Chows look like adorable little teddy bears, but they come with a major catch: they are some of the most aloof, independent dogs out there. Despite their fluffy, endearing appearance, they’re not the affectionate lap dogs you might expect. They’re highly territorial and can be aggressive if not socialized correctly. Chow Chows typically cost between $1,500 and $4,000, and their extensive grooming and health costs add up fast. According to Buzzfeed, ongoing care makes this breed an expensive companion.
10. Portuguese Water Dogs Are High Maintenance With A Price Tag
The Portuguese Water Dog might look like the perfect family pet, but it’s anything but simple. With their energetic nature and curly coat, they demand constant attention, training, and grooming. Prices for this breed range from $2,000 to $4,500, and the cost of maintaining their coats can be substantial. While they excel at water activities, they are not the easiest dogs to maintain on a daily basis. Add to that their high price tag, and it becomes clear that this breed isn’t for everyone. As Buzzfeed points out, if you’re not prepared for a high-maintenance dog, you might want to reconsider this one.
In conclusion, while these breeds may be highly sought after and undeniably cute, the ongoing costs and care requirements should not be overlooked. Make sure you’re ready for the financial and emotional commitment before bringing one of these expensive dogs into your home. The price may seem worth it, but the reality is often a very different story.