Dogs have been referred to as man’s closest friend since they were tamed between 19,000 and 32,000 years ago. Domestication originated as a survival strategy: dogs, which were genetically closer to wolves at the time, were better at hunting down prey than people, and humans were better at lighting fires.

Archaeologists believe that canines and humans hunted together. The dogs would like the warmth of human fireplaces and would share the prepared food with their new closest mates. Thousands of years later, dogs remain an important part of our life. Depending on the breed, they can also be very pricey.

Over the decades, the pet industry has risen by leaps and bounds. The pet business in America is predicted to reach $72 billion by 2021, including pet toys, medication, food, and everything else our furry friends require, with stocks like Chewy and Zoetis also anticipating potential growth.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Average Price: $1,000*
Origin Country: United Kingdom

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was developed in the United Kingdom. According to the Kennel Club, it is a toy dog, and a purebred CKCS can cost up to a thousand dollars. During medieval times, the dog was popular as a lap dog. It is a sociable dog with fluffy ears that needs a lot of care from its human owners.

The English Toy Spaniel is frequently confused with the CKCS. While they have a common history, they parted over a century ago. The CKCS is smaller than the Toy Spaniel, so you can tell them apart.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enjoy running. They may be little, but they are always eager to play, so don’t be afraid to stock up on Chewy or PetCo toys and snacks. This toy breed, the nineteenth most popular pure breed in America, has outgrown its days as a sleepy lap dog.

2. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Average Price: $1,500*
Origin Country: Czech Republic/Slovakia

The silver-gray and yellow-gray coat of the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is distinctive. The dog’s ancestors may be traced back to 1955, when it was created as part of an experiment conducted by the CSSR (Czechoslovakia was a satellite state) Breed Association. Despite its wolf-like appearance, the Wolfdog is actually fairly sociable.

It’s social, but also energetic and fearless. This makes plausible given that the dog was created by crossing wolves and guard dogs. Only 340 of these dogs have been registered in Slovakia, Italy, and a few other nations. This most likely explains why these pets can cost up to $1,500.

Despite the fact that these canines are unquestionably good, the Czech Wolfdog is outlawed in forty states. These states prohibit the ownership and breeding of wolf hybrids. Even among states that permit ownership/breeding, regulations vary by county. Occasionally, stories of unlawful Wolfdog ownership make the front pages of Fox or CNN.

3. St. Bernard

Average Price: $1,800*
Origin Country: Italian/Swiss Alps

The St. Bernard is a massive working dog. It can weigh up to 260 pounds and stand up to 35 inches tall at the withers. Originally, the St. Bernard was bred as a rescue dog. These canines were bred by the St. Bernard Pass hospice to assist persons who were caught in the snow on the Italian-Swiss border.

The monk Bernard of Menthon, an Italian who originally bred the rescue dogs in 1660, gave them their name. Throughout history, there are stories of the breed’s heroic temperament and brave rescues.

St. Bernards have appeared in films for decades because people like these gentle giants. Beethoven, which you can watch on Hulu or Peacock, was a favorite among kids in the 1990s. Beethoven, which starred a St. Bernard named Beethoven, was so popular that it spawned seven sequels between 1993 and 2014.

4. Bedlington Terrier

Average Price: $1,800*
Origin Country: Northeastern England

The Bedlington Terrier is known as “Rothbury’s Lamb,” which makes sense given its appearance. The Bedlington was developed as a vermin hunter, but it quickly became a racing dog and a popular candidate in dog shows. Despite his calm demeanor, the Bedlington is recognized for his tremendous swimming abilities.

Breeders also described it as “fit to kill another dog of its weight class,” yet being amiable with humans (especially youngsters). The dog breed, which originated in Northumberland, has a 13.5-year lifespan and is closely linked to the Whippet.

These Terriers are energetic and loving. They still have good hunting instincts and a strong sense of smell. The Bedlington Terrier grows to a maximum height of eighteen inches and can be seen wowing audiences at various NBC dog events. In addition to being a terrific hunter and show dog, the Bedlington makes an excellent companion.

5. Double Doodle

Average Price: $1,900*
Origin Country: United States

This breed of dog, known as “the Double Doodle,” is not a purebred. He is a Labradoodle x Goldendoodle hybrid. A Double Doodle can also be produced by crossing two Golden Retrievers, a Poodle, and a Labrador Retriever. This dog breed is intelligent, friendly, lively, and fluffy.

Because the Double Doodle is a hybrid, it is normally a healthy dog that lives between twelve and fifteen years. They typically do not have the same genetic difficulties as their purebred parents because to variety in their gene pools (which was, no doubt, intended by the original breeders).

You may also be familiar with it as the Golden Labradoodle or the North American Retriever. Despite its fluff, this breed of dog is non-shedding. It also enjoys playing fetch, so if you’re not an active person who doesn’t mind throwing a ball from PetSmart for an hour, the Double Doodle might not be for you.

6. Caucasian Ovtcharka

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: Georgia

In Georgia, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog was bred as a working dog for the Soviet Union. Soviet breeders selected numerous Shepherd Dog breeds from Azerbaijan and Georgia to produce the Caucasian Mountain Dog, also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka or the Nagazi.

Shepherd dogs have been around for thousands of years, dating back to shepherds guarding sheep in the Caucasus mountains. The Ovcharka is a powerful beast. He can weigh up to 220 pounds (females can weigh up to 180 pounds), making him larger than the St. Bernard. Life expectancy is up to 12 years.

Because of its protective, fearless character, this is a breed that should not be “taken lightly,” according to the American Kennel Club. On YouTube, some breeders say that a Caucasian Ovcharka can kill a wolf. That is most likely correct, however keep your Ovcharka away from any potential risks or confrontations, since this is a dog that will not back down.

7. Bouvier des Flandres

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: Northern Belgium

The Bouvier des Flandres is a Belgian breed of herding dog. This breed was employed for farm chores, such as cattle roaming, cart hauling, and sheep herding. European police now utilize the Bouvier as a security dog and police canine (American officers prefer German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois).

The Bouvier is reserved with strangers, yet it is not a violent breed. It is, on the contrary, good with families and highly loyal. It is more peaceful than other breeds. The name Bouvier des Flandres comes from its breeding city of Flanders, Belgium.

The Bouviers des Flandres can grow to weigh 70 to 100 pounds and stand 23-26 inches tall at the shoulder, according to Animal Planet. This huge dog has a lifespan of 10 to twelve years. Despite the fact that your family may not put the Bouviers to work on a farm, this breed requires a lot of exercise and activity. If you want you can also read – 6 Things You Can Do to Make Your Dog Happy

8. Newfoundland

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: Canada

The Newfoundland, sometimes known as the Moscow Water Dog, was developed in the Dominion of Newfoundland, which was located in modern-day Canada. The dog was bred before the formation of the Canadian Confederation. The Newfoundland is a huge breed with long coats and a robust bone structure.

Females can weigh up to 120 pounds and males up to 150 pounds. Despite its stately demeanor and massive body, this working dog is extremely trainable, sensitive, and has a beautiful disposition. Black, grey, black and white, or brown are its major coat colors. It has a lifespan of up to ten years.

Newfoundlands are not aggressive dogs, and you can find videos on YouTube showing them befriending almost any animal, including a fox. According to one woman in Alberta, Canada, a young female fox and her three-year-old Newfoundland discovered each other in her backyard. They’re now best pals.

9. Golden Retriever

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: Scotland

The Golden Retriever is one of the friendliest dogs on this list. It is a large-sized dog that was created as a gun dog, which means it was bred to recover waterfowl (game birds) after its owner had hunted them. The retriever got its name from its ability to recover shot-down birds without causing any harm to the kill.

The Golden has such a soft mouth that it can hold an egg without cracking it, which is why it was popular among hunters. The Golden is extremely friendly and dependable. It is easily identified by its golden or cream-colored coat. It is the world’s fifth most popular dog breed.

Golden retrievers are popular on television and in movies. To the pleasure of fans, Goldens appeared on shows such as CBS’ Sam and NBC’s Year in the Life. Golden retrievers are easy to teach and extremely affectionate, making them a dog that is generally adored. They would look at home on any TV or movie set, regardless of the theme.

10. Löwchen

Average Price: $5,000*
Origin Country: Germany/France

The Löwchen is also known as the Little Lion Dog or the Petit Chien Lion in its native country. The dog is classified as a toy, and it is undoubtedly a non-sporting dog. It was bred in Europe in 1422, and the abundance of paintings and tapestries depicting the dog confirms its history.

It was bred as a royal court dog, a companion to the elites who would merely sit around all day in luxury. The Löwchen was one of the world’s rarest breeds in the 1970s, but its numbers are presently increasing.

This little lion will not grow up to be a brawler. It can weigh up to eighteen pounds. The Lowchen is a cheerful, intelligent, and active creature. Though these dogs live 12-14 years and are generally healthy, purchasing pet insurance from firms such as Trupanion or Petplan is always a good option. The relative scarcity of this breed is even another reason to purchase pet insurance.

11. Rottweiler

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: Germany

Rottweilers were developed as working dogs. They would pull butchers’ carts as well as transport cattle to the market. Rottweilers were (and continue to be) famed for their bravery and alertness, and they were among the earliest police dogs. They continue to serve in the military alongside human companions.

Rottweilers have a nasty reputation, but if socialized early on, the canines are fairly nice. Some Rottweilers are more reserved, while others are rambunctious. Males can grow to weigh up to 130 pounds. This breed of dog is fiercely protective of its family, whether human or canine.

Despite the fact that Rottweilers are wonderful dogs, certain cities in the United States have prohibited them. Though the facts behind these bands are arguable, you should check to see whether your city has laws prohibiting you from owning a Rottie. Though unlawful Rottweiler ownership is unlikely to make national CNN news, it could result in a hefty fine and the removal of your dog.

12. Bulldog

Average Price: $2,000*
Origin Country: England

The bulldog is a powerful, big dog with a pushed-in nose and wrinkly (yet attractive) face. The English Bulldog, which may weigh up to fifty pounds, is considered to have been developed in the 1600s. In the 1700s, it initially appeared in paintings. Painting of a Bulldog by Philip Reinagle is one such example.

The bulldog was initially bred to bait bulls in bullfights, which was a barbarous practice. For obvious reasons, this was made illegal in England, but it was because of this original risky occupation that bulldogs evolved such large jaws and powerful, stocky frames.

Bulldogs have a lifespan of eight to ten years. Bulldogs, despite their friendliness and silliness, can be difficult to teach due to their stubbornness. They are also prone to obesity, so keep a close eye on their diet. Because of the Bulldog’s regular health difficulties, purchasing pet insurance for this breed is a good option. Companies like Geico may cover your pets in addition to your house and automobile.

13. Chow Chow

Average Price: $2,900*
Origin Country: China

The Chow Chow is also known as the “Songshi Quan” in China, which translates to “puffy lion.” The Chow Chow is not hypoallergenic, and it has a thick fluffy coat that covers its small, muscular physique. This dog breed can weigh up to 71 pounds. In China, it was bred as a “all-purpose” dog for hunting, guarding, protecting, or working.

If you’re searching for a brilliant dog, this isn’t the breed for you. Despite being adorable and extremely devoted, the Chow Chow has regularly been ranked as one of the least trainable and intellectual dogs. They make up for it by being protective and attractive.

Because they are violent and require so rigorous socialization and training, the Chow Chow is the most-banned dog breed in America, making it difficult for American owners to get one. Chow Chow proprietors, on the other hand, would dispute their frightening reputation. In December 2020, a Chow Chow named Barney was named “Pet of the Week” by a local ABC station.

14. Saluki

Average Price: $2,500*
Origin Country: Egypt

One of the oldest dog breeds on this list is the Saluki. The sighthounds from which it was bred are its direct ancestors. Sighthounds are unusual dogs since they hunt largely by sight rather than scent. Sighthounds were used in the Fertile Crescent during the BC era. They hunted with nomadic tribes.

Sighthounds were among the first animals to be domesticated. The modern Saluki is well-known for its hunting abilities. It has a top speed of 43 miles per hour. The Saluki is regarded for being aloof, silent, and reserved. It has a potential lifespan of fourteen years.

Though the Saluki is no longer a king’s hunting hound, this dog still enjoys running around, so stock up on toys from pet stores (or big-box retailers like Walmart or Target). The Saluki may appear thinner than other canines, however this is due to the dog’s inherent height.

15. Peruvian Hairless

Average Price: $3,000*
Origin Country: Peru

The Peruvian Hairless Dog is easily identified by its hairless body, with scattered strands on top of its head. The dog is modest in size and has been around for ages. It was developed in Peru during the pre-Inca period. During the Incan Dynasty, they gained popularity.

These dogs are shown as charming companions on Andean pottery and Moche artifacts. The dogs were eaten by pre-Incan Peruvians, but the Incans considered them supernatural creatures and outlawed their consumption after conquering the territory. The dogs were said to be capable of curing arthritis.

Peruvian Hairless Dogs are still “as important as Machu Picchu” in their native Peru, according to The New York Times. These canines survive for 11 to 12 years. They can weigh up to 26 pounds and grow to be 16-20 inches tall at the shoulder. The Peruvian Hairless Dog has a vibrant, affectionate, and alert personality.

Read Also: What Accessories Should I Buy for My Dog?

16. Neapolitan Mastiff

Average Price: $5,000*
Origin Country: Rome

The Mastino (also known as the Neapolitan Mastiff) is a huge breed of dog that may weigh up to 150 pounds. The Mastiff was developed in ancient Rome to be a protector of the family and property, and it has retained that protective, fearless character over the decades.

Male Mastiffs can reach thirty inches in height and have black, tawny, blue, brindle, or mahogany coats. Their life expectancy is between eight and 10 years. Though trainable, these giants have a destructive nature when bored, so they demand a lot of exercise and companionship.

Neapolitan Mastiffs may appear scary, but if properly socialized, they are not aggressive at all. They’re more aloof than anything else. These guard dogs can weigh between 110 and 150 pounds. Food is going to cost you at least $80-$100 a month, whether you buy it from PetSmart or Walmart.

17. Akita

Average Price: $4,500*
Origin Country: Japan

The Akita originated in the hilly regions of Northern Japan and comes in two varieties: Japanese Akita and American Akita. Both kinds of dog are huge, with males reaching up to 130 pounds. Originally, the Akita was utilized as a guard dog. It was in charge of guarding the Japanese royal family and other nobility.

Black bear, wild boar, and large deer were also hunted by the dogs. This toughness has been passed down to the Akita, which is not a dog who backs down from a fight. If socialized as a puppy, the Akita will be friendly. It also guards its family members fiercely.

The Akita is possibly the most revered and venerated of all native Japanese dog breeds. Unfortunately, the Akita has been banned in many areas across America. Despite the bans, celebrities continue to enjoy them. According to People Magazine, stars Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. are expecting twin Akitas in November 2020.

18. Pharaoh Hound

Average Price: $6,500*
Origin Country: Malta

The Pharaoh Hound is known as “The Blushing Dog” because to its distinctive coat color. It was raised in the Maltese Islands for rabbit hunting. In traditional language, its name is Kelb-tal-Fenek, which translates to “dog of the rabbit.” Ancestors of the Hound chased gazelles alongside Egyptian pharaohs.

Despite its Egyptian beginnings, the companion made its way to Malta and grew so popular that it became the region’s national dog. The Pharaoh Hound has been around for at least five thousand years. It is a highly clever and trainable dog. This energetic breed can live for 11 to 14 years.

Pharaoh Hounds generally get along with other dogs, but they have a reputation for being aggressive with dogs of the same gender or canines smaller than them. Because Pharaohs are hunters at heart, they should not live with small pets (cats, rabbits, etc.). Save your hunting abilities for Chewy chew toys.

19. Portuguese Water Dog

Average Price: $3,000*
Origin Country: Portugal

From 2008 through 2016, the Portuguese Water Dog served in the White House. This dog was bred as a working dog in Portugal’s Algarve region. This breed is hypoallergenic and can survive for up to fifteen years. Males can grow to weigh up to sixty pounds. The PWD gets along well with children and has an intelligent, affectionate demeanor.

PWDs must be trained from a young age because their disposition is more impulsive and sassy if they are not taught to listen to their owners. PWDs dislike being left alone for more than a few hours.

According to DISC, these canines are “some of the best swimmers,” as the name suggests. They even have webbed paws to aid in their paddling. Portuguese Water Dogs are naturally good swimmers, and their name literally translates to “dog of the water.”

20. Dogo Argentino

Average Price: $5,000*
Origin Country: Argentina

The Dogo Argentino is a huge, muscular white dog breed. Antonio Nores Martinez bred it in Argentina because he wanted a dog that would be bold and protective when hunting huge animals. The Dogo Argentino was used for wild boar hunting. Males can weigh up to 99 pounds and have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.

The Dogo Argentino is prohibited in certain regions, including the entire United Kingdom and cities in the United States such as New York City and Aurora, Colorado. These breeds must be socialized from an early age. They are not suitable for families, but they are suitable for single owners looking for a protective friend.

Dogo Argentino fans received wonderful news in November 2020, which was also covered by Fox and NBC. The American Kennel Club has recognized the Dogo Argentino as the 195th breed. Though the Fighting Dog of Cordoba, the Dogo Argentino’s ancestor, never received the accolade, the Dogo Argentino can carry on its legacy.