Looking for a loyal, loving companion without breaking the bank? Enter the world of big dog breeds that offer huge hearts and little expense. These seven affordable gentle giants bring heaps of love and companionship, demonstrating that size doesn’t have to equate to high costs. From low-maintenance grooming to modest feeding requirements, these big dogs are perfect for families seeking affectionate pets while being budget-conscious. Whether you’re interested in a laid-back lap dog or an active partner for adventures, these breeds ensure that your heart and home will be full, without emptying your wallet.
Looking for a loyal, loving companion without breaking the bank? You’re in luck; many big dog breeds are affordable and full of heart. Did you know that adopting a large dog can cost significantly less than raising a small breed in the long run? These dogs make wonderful family pets, from affection to playful energy.
While some breeds come with hefty price tags and expensive grooming costs, many large dog breeds are surprisingly budget-friendly. Whether you’re considering a shelter dog or a mixed breed, plenty of loving, loyal dogs need a home.
However, before bringing a furry friend into your life, it’s essential to consider their health needs and potential veterinary care. Some big breeds might have genetic conditions but can live long, happy lives with the right attention.
Discover the cheapest and most lovable big dog breeds that could be your perfect match.
Cheap Big Dog Breeds
1. Plott Hound
The Plott Hound is a resilient and driven breed with a rich hunting background. Known for its determination and loyalty, this dog thrives in an environment that offers mental and physical stimulation.
As one of the more affordable dog breeds, Plott Hounds are easy to maintain. With a short, sleek coat, grooming is minimal, and their size typically ranges from 40 to 70 pounds. These family dogs don’t require frequent grooming, keeping costs low.
AKC writes that these dogs are ideal for active families with space for outdoor activities. Their playful nature and energetic behavior make them great companions for children and pets. They need daily exercise and enjoy bonding with their family.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (40-60 lbs) |
Brindle, Tan, Black |
$300 – $600 |
|
Large (60-70 lbs) |
Brindle |
$600 – $800 |
2. Redbone Coonhound
Redbone Coonhounds are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. Bred for hunting, they are naturally curious and have a strong sense of smell, making them exceptional trackers.
Being one of the least expensive dog breeds, Redbones come with a manageable coat that doesn’t require extensive grooming. They typically weigh between 45 and 70 pounds, and their short fur helps keep maintenance low.
Redbones are best suited for homes with space to run and explore. They are playful and get along well with kids and other pets, making them a great addition to active households. Regular exercise helps keep them happy and healthy.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (45-60 lbs) |
Red, Tan, Brown |
$400 – $800 |
|
Large (60-70 lbs) |
Solid Red |
$800 – $1,200 |
3. Pit Bull
Pit Bulls are intelligent and loyal dogs that are popular for their strong bond with families. Originally bred for strength and agility, they make great working dogs and companions.
Considered one of the cheapest dogs to maintain, Pit Bulls have a short coat that needs minimal care. They generally weigh between 30 and 60 pounds, which makes grooming and upkeep easy and affordable.
This breed thrives in environments that encourage activity and engagement. With plenty of exercise and affection, they bond well with children and other pets. Pit Bulls are energetic and love to play, making them excellent family companions.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (30-45 lbs) |
Brown, Blue, White |
$150 – $500 |
|
Large (45-60 lbs) |
Brindle, Tan |
$500 – $1,000 |
4. Otterhound
Otterhounds are rare, originally bred for hunting otters and other water creatures. These bigger dogs are known for their friendly nature and strong bond with their families.
One of the affordable dog breeds, the Otterhound’s thick, dense coat does require occasional brushing, but overall, they are still low-maintenance. They weigh between 65 and 115 pounds, making them a larger breed but manageable in grooming.
This breed thrives in homes with ample space to roam and engage in activities. As per VCA, they are friendly and playful, forming close relationships with family members and pets. Regular exercise is essential to keep them happy.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Large (65-100 lbs) |
Tan, Black, Gray |
$500 – $1,200 |
|
Very Large (100+ lbs) |
Brown, Black |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
5. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular and versatile breeds worldwide. They are known for their friendly demeanor, strong work ethic, and great companions for various households.
As one of the most affordable big dog breeds, Labs require only basic grooming. With a short, easy-to-care-for coat, they typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. This breed’s minimal grooming needs make it a cost-effective choice for families.
Labradors are ideal for active families, as they require plenty of exercise and love to play. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them great companions for children and other pets. They adapt well to various environments.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (55-70 lbs) |
Yellow, Black, Chocolate |
$500 – $1,200 |
|
Large (70-80 lbs) |
Yellow, Black |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
6. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are famous for their distinctive spotted coats and energetic personalities. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they have a long history as working companions.
One of the cheapest dogs to care for, Dalmatians have a short coat that requires very little upkeep. They typically weigh between 45 and 70 pounds, which makes them easy to maintain compared to other breeds with longer coats.
This breed needs plenty of exercise to maintain its high energy levels. PetMD says that Dalmatians are affectionate and enjoy playtime with family members, making them an excellent choice for active homes. They can be trained to get along with other pets.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (45-60 lbs) |
Black, White, Liver |
$400 – $900 |
|
Large (60-70 lbs) |
White with Spots |
$900 – $1,300 |
7. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are uniquely known for their lion-like appearance and independent nature. While they can be aloof, they are also incredibly affectionate with their families.
Chow Chows are relatively affordable compared to other big fluffy dog breeds. Their dense coat does require regular brushing, but they are generally low-maintenance compared to other dogs of similar size. They weigh between 45 and 70 pounds, making them a manageable size for most families.
This breed is well-suited for homes with plenty of space and fewer distractions. While independent, they enjoy interaction with their family and are great with children once properly socialized. Regular exercise and training are important.
|
Size Range |
Color Range |
Price Range |
|
Medium (45-60 lbs) |
Red, Black, Blue |
$500 – $1,500 |
|
Large (60-70 lbs) |
Cream, Cinnamon |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
Owning a dog comes with both responsibilities and costs and if you’re curious about how much it might cost to care for your new furry friend, use the tool below to find out.
Select Your Dog Breed:
Affenpinscher
Afghan Hound
African Wild Dog
Aidi
Ainu Dog
Ainu
Airedale Terrier
Airedoodle
Akbash
Akita Shepherd
Akita
Alaskan Husky
Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Shepherd
Alpine Dachsbracke
Alusky
American Alsatian
American Bulldog
American Cocker Spaniel
American Coonhound
American Eskimo Dog
American Foxhound
American Hairless Terrier
American Leopard Hound
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pugabull
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Water Spaniel
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Appenzeller Dog
Apple Head Chihuahua
Armenian Gampr
Aussiedoodle
Aussiedor
Australian Bulldog
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Kelpie Dog
Australian Labradoodle
Australian Retriever
Australian Shepherd
Australian Terrier
Barbet
Basenji Dog
Bassador
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Basset Hound
Bassetoodle
Bavarian Mountain Hound
Bea-Tzu
Beabull
Beagador
Beagle Shepherd
Beagle
Beaglier
Beago
Bearded Collie
Beaski
Beauceron
Bedlington Terrier
Belgian Shepherd
Belgian Tervuren
Bergamasco
Berger Blanc Suisse
Berger Picard
Bernedoodle
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Shepherd
Bichon Frise
Bichpoo
Biewer Terrier
Black and Tan Coonhound
Black Russian Terrier
Bloodhound
Blue Lacy Dog
Blue Nose Pitbull
Blue Picardy Spaniel
Bluetick Coonhound
Boggle
Boglen Terrier
Bolognese Dog
Borador
Border Collie
Border Terrier
Bordoodle
Borkie
Boston Terrier
Bouvier des Flandres
Boxachi
Boxador
Boxer Dog
Boxerdoodle
Boxsky
Boxweiler
Boykin Spaniel
Brazilian Terrier
British Timber
Brittany
Brug
Brussels Griffon
Bull and Terrier
Bull Terrier
Bulldog
Bullmastiff
Cairn Terrier
Canaan Dog
Canadian Eskimo Dog
Cane Corso
Carolina Dog
Catahoula Bulldog
Catahoula Leopard
Catalan Sheepdog
Cava Tzu
Cavador
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavapoo
Cesky Fousek
Cesky Terrier
Cheagle
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Shar-Pei
Chinook
Chipoo
Chiweenie
Chorkie
Chow Chow
Chow Shepherd
Chusky
Clumber Spaniel
Cockalier
Cockapoo
Cocker Spaniel
Collie
Corgidor
Corgipoo
Corkie
Corman Shepherd
Coton de Tulear
Croatian Sheepdog
Curly Coated Retriever
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
Dachsador
Dachshund
Dalmadoodle
Dalmador
Dalmatian
Dapple Dachshund
Deer Head Chihuahua
Deutsche Bracke
Doberman Pinscher
Dogo Argentino
Dogue de Bordeaux
Dorgi
Dorkie
Double Doodle
Doxiepoo
Doxle
Drever
Dunker
Dutch Shepherd
English Bulldog
English Cocker Spaniel
English Cream Golden Retriever
English Foxhound
English Pointer
English Setter
English Shepherd
English Springer Spaniel
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Epagneul Pont Audemer
Eskimo Dog
Eskipoo
Estrela Mountain Dog
Feist
Field Spaniel
Fila Brasileiro
Finnish Spitz
Flat-Coated Retriever
Formosan Mountain Dog
Fox Terrier
French Bulldog
Frenchton
Frengle
Gerberian Shepsky
German Pinscher
German Shepherd Guide
German Sheppit
German Sheprador
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Spitz
Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnoodle
Glechon
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Goberian
Goldador
Golden Dox
Golden Newfie
Golden Pyrenees
Golden Retriever
Golden Saint
Golden Shepherd
Goldendoodle
Gordon Setter
Great Dane
Great Danoodle
Great Pyrenees
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Greenland Dog
Greyhound
Griffonshire
Groenendael
Harrier
Havamalt
Havanese
Havapoo
Havashire
Hokkaido
Horgi
Huntaway
Huskador
Huskita
Husky Jack
Husky
Huskydoodle
Ibizan Hound
Icelandic Sheepdog
Irish Doodle
Irish Setter
Irish Terrier
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Wolfhound
Italian Greyhound
Jack Russell
Jackabee
Japanese Chin
Japanese Spitz
Japanese Terrier
Kai Ken
Kangal
Keeshond
Kerry Blue Terrier
King Shepherd
Kishu
Kooikerhondje
Koolie
Korean Jindo Dog
Kuvasz
Labahoula
Labmaraner
Labradane
Labradoodle
Labrador Retriever
Labraheeler
Lakeland Terrier
Lancashire Heeler
Landseer Newfoundland
Lapponian Herder
Large Munsterlander
Leonberger
Lhasa Apso
Lhasapoo
Long-Haired Rottweiler
Lowchen
Mal Shi
Malchi
Malteagle
Maltese Shih Tzu
Maltese
Maltipoo
Manchester Terrier
Mastador
Mastiff
Mauzer
Meagle
Miki
Mini Goldendoodle
Mini Labradoodle
Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Husky
Miniature Pinscher
Mongrel
Morkie
Moscow Watchdog
Mountain Cur
Mountain Feist
Mudi
Neapolitan Mastiff
Newfoundland
Newfypoo
Norfolk Terrier
Northern Inuit Dog
Norwegian Buhund
Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Lundehund
Norwich Terrier
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Old English Sheepdog
Otterhound
Papillon
Parson Russell Terrier
Parti Schnauzer
Patterdale Terrier
Peagle
Pekingese
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Perro de Presa Canario
Peruvian Inca Orchid
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Petite Goldendoodle
Picardy Spaniel
Pit Bull
Pitador
Pitbull Lab Mix
Pitsky
Pocket Beagle
Pocket Pitbull
Pointer
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Polish Tatra Sheepdog
Pomapoo
Pomchi
Pomeagle
Pomeranian
Pomsky
Poochon
Poodle
Poogle
Prairie Dog
Pudelpointer
Pug
Pugapoo
Puggle
Pugshire
Pumi
Pyrador
Pyredoodle
Raccoon Dog
Raggle
Rat Terrier
Red Nose Pitbull
Redbone Coonhound
Rotterman
Rottsky
Rottweiler
Russell Terrier
Russian Bear Dog
Saarloos Wolfdog
Sable Black German Shepherd
Saint Bernard
Saint Shepherd
Saluki
Samoyed
Schipperke
Schneagle
Schnoodle
Scotch Collie
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Sheepadoodle
Shepadoodle
Shepkita
Shepweiler
Shichi
Shih Poo
Shih Tzu
Shollie
Siberian Husky
Siberian Retriever
Siberpoo
Silky Terrier
Silver Labrador
Skye Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Snorkie
Spanador
Spanish Mastiff
Spinone Italiano
Spiny Dogfish
Springerdoodle
Stabyhoun
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Standard Schnauzer
Swedish Vallhund
Taco Terrier
Taiwan Dog
Tamaskan
Teacup Maltese
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Tenterfield Terrier
Terrier
Texas Heeler
Thai Ridgeback
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier
Torkie
Tornjak
Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Poodle
Transylvanian Hound
Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Utonagan
Vizsla
Volpino Italiano
Weimaraner
Weimardoodle
Welsh Corgi
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Welsh Terrier
West Highland Terrier
Westiepoo
Wheaten Terrier
Whippet
White German Shepherd
Whoodle
Wire Fox Terrier
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Xoloitzcuintli
Yakutian Laika
Yoranian
Yorkie Bichon
Yorkie-Poo
Yorkshire Terrier
Zuchon
Select Your Dog Size
Small
Medium
Large
Medical expenses
Dental Care
Flea and tick control
Heartworm Prevention
Wellness Check-ups
Vaccination
Neutering/Spaying
Food
Treats (including dental chews)
Kibble
Grooming
Grooming services
Number of grooming appointments per year
Equipment
Crate
Bedding
Grooming Equipment:
Leash, Collar, Identity Tag
Bowls
Toys
Miscellaneous Costs
Training Cost
Need of Dog Walker (days/month)
Need of Boarding (days/month)
Calculate Total Cost
Total Medical expenses: $0.00
Total Food expenses: $0.00
Total Grooming expenses: $0.00
Total Equipment expenses: $0.00
Total Miscellaneous expenses: $0.00
Total Price for Owning a Dog
Total: $0.00
Conclusion
Finding a big dog that fits your budget is easier than you think! Affordable dog breeds are ideal for pet parents looking for a large dog without expensive upkeep. They are loyal and affectionate and require minimal grooming, making them perfect for families on a budget.
Though breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog may be pricier, they are often great, affordable alternatives. These dogs usually have fewer health issues, such as heart disease or hip dysplasia, and cost less to maintain.
Whether you’re drawn to a hunting dog or an intelligent breed like the Border Collie, there are big dog breeds with low costs and loving natures. You don’t need to worry about expensive pet insurance or vet bills with these affordable options.
Don’t let cost hold you back from adopting a large, loving dog. Explore affordable prices and start your journey today with a big dog that fits your family and budget!
In conclusion, owning a large dog doesn’t have to break the bank. The seven affordable big dog breeds highlighted demonstrate that it is entirely possible to find a lovable and loyal companion without incurring exorbitant costs. These breeds offer the perfect blend of size, affection, and manageability in terms of care expenses. Whether you’re drawn to their protective nature, playful demeanor, or gentle temperament, these dogs prove that love and companionship come in all sizes, and don’t always require a hefty financial commitment. Choosing a cost-effective big dog breed allows families to enjoy the joy and benefits of canine companionship without undue financial strain.