15 Dog Breeds That Come With a Hidden Price Tag

Some dog breeds might look irresistible, but behind the cute face and Instagram-worthy coat is a long list of unexpected costs. From health problems to grooming nightmares and training expenses, these dogs often demand much more than the adoption fee suggests. If you’re thinking about one of these breeds, you might want to budget twice.

English Bulldog

Those wrinkles hide more than charm—they trap moisture, bacteria, and vet bills. Bulldogs are prone to breathing issues, joint problems, and skin infections. Their unique build makes them high-maintenance from day one. Insurance premiums are higher, and surgeries are common. Cute? Absolutely. Cheap to own? Not even close.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Elegant and sweet but heartbreakingly fragile. Cavaliers are prone to serious heart issues like mitral valve disease, often leading to lifelong medications or early loss. Add dental problems and grooming costs, and suddenly, this toy breed becomes a luxury to maintain. Many owners aren’t prepared for how quickly the vet bills pile up.

Great Dane

This gentle giant comes with a giant appetite—and giant expenses. Food alone can feel like feeding a small horse. Vet care, joint supplements, and a higher risk of bloat (a life-threatening emergency) all add up. Even crates, beds, and vehicles need to be size-adjusted. The dog may be calm, but the costs are not.

French Bulldog

It is one of the most expensive breeds to own, not just buy. Frenchies are prone to breathing issues, spinal disorders, and allergies. Many require surgery just to breathe normally. Their compact size hides the fact that they often become repeat customers at the vet—and every visit isn’t cheap.

Akita

Powerful, independent, and not for beginners. Akitas often need specialized training and firm, consistent handling. They’re prone to autoimmune diseases and hip dysplasia. Their grooming needs are intense, and their temperament means many owners pay for professional behaviorists. What looks like a noble companion can easily turn into a high-cost responsibility.

Alaskan Malamute

Built for snow, not your living room. Malamutes have thick coats that require constant upkeep, shed like it’s their full-time job, and aren’t cheap to groom professionally. Add their prey drive, digging habits, and a stubborn streak, and you may find yourself paying for reinforced fences and replacements for chewed furniture.

Chow Chow

Fluffy lion or high-maintenance nightmare? Chow Chows often require professional grooming to avoid painful mats, and their aloof temperament can create training challenges. Many struggle with entropion (a painful eye condition), hip issues, and allergies. They look cuddly, but surprise costs—both medical and behavioral—can make them a tough long-term investment.

Shar Pei

Wrinkles that charm—and trap everything else. These dogs are infamous for skin issues, eye problems, and a rare condition called Shar Pei fever. Vet bills add up fast, and many require regular medications just to stay healthy. Their unique appearance comes with an equally unique level of upkeep and cost.

Dachshund

Their long back may look adorable, but it’s a recipe for spinal issues. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is common and can require expensive surgery or lifelong care. Their stubbornness also often means investing in extra training. That little sausage body hides a wallet-draining future if you’re not ready.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Known for their beauty and sweetness, but not their longevity. This large breed is prone to cancer, hip dysplasia, and joint issues. Their thick coat also requires grooming, and because they grow fast, many require joint supplements early on. Vet visits can become frequent and emotionally (and financially) draining.

Yorkshire Terrier

Tiny, stylish—and surprisingly expensive. Yorkies are prone to dental problems, collapsing trachea, and fragile limbs. Their long coat needs regular professional grooming, and many end up on special diets due to sensitive stomachs. They may be small in size, but they can create a full-sized dent in your budget.

Afghan Hound

They look like runway models—and come with the same grooming bill. Their silky coat tangles easily and requires hours of brushing or frequent trips to the groomer. These independent dogs are also tough to train, so obedience classes are usually a must. You’re not just buying a dog—you’re signing up for a lifestyle.

Dogo Argentino

Strong, athletic, and banned in several countries—these dogs often require permits or higher insurance coverage. Their drive and strength make professional training essential. Vet care can be costly, and their size means everything (food, gear, crates) comes at a premium. Owning one responsibly is a serious financial commitment.

Pekingese

Royal by appearance—and maintenance. These dogs often have breathing issues due to their flat faces, along with eye injuries and back problems. Their thick coat mats easily and requires regular grooming. Despite their size, Pekingese dogs demand a surprising amount of both time and money to keep healthy and happy.

Old English Sheepdog

All that fluff doesn’t care for itself. The dense, double-layered coat mats easily and requires frequent brushing and trimming, either by you or a groomer. They’re also prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and eye conditions. Many new owners are shocked by how fast the cost of “upkeep” turns into a major monthly budget line.