Aug. 24/2025

                           

The Most Expensive Types Of Pets You Can Buy

By Adam Symchuk   

12/ 29/ 2024 

Pet parents certainly know how costly our furry, feathered, or scaled friends can be. It's estimated that the average American spends roughly $770 on their pets per year. Affordability is always a consideration when you take a new companion into your home; but for many it's is an expected part of ownership taken out of love. Per MetLife, people spend anywhere from $50 to as high as $1,000 to adopt a dog, while the Cat Humane Society reports people typically spend in the hundreds to bring a feline friend into their family.

Yet what if money were not an issue, & you could indulge in purchasing any pet? Or perhaps you have finally saved enough to realize your dream of welcoming a more uncommon companion into your house. Certain pets will certainly cost you a lot more than adopting a dog or cat. These are some of the most expensive pets you can buy, whether by base purchase price or for rarities within pets that see them sold at a high value. We will also review the legality of many of these entries, as rarity often equals expense & potential restrictions; you can also check yourself via findlaw.com list of exotic animal bans.

Tibetan Mastiff

This Mastiff is a large working dog originally from the Himalayas with a long history as a protector & companion to the Tibetan people. The breed is a loyal companion that can be both a protector due to its size (averaging between 140-170 pounds) & an entertainer due to its stubborn & aloof nature. Mastiffs are a rare breed in North America, which already makes their price range for pups on the higher end, ranging from 2 to 6 thousand.

While some mastiff breeds face restrictions in the USA, the Tibetan mastiff faces few in comparison. If you can find a breeder in the United States. They are a relatively healthy breed, but their size & constant shedding can be expensive when considering accommodating them into your home.

While there are more expensive dog breeds to purchase, the hearty pooch is notable for its status in its native home China. As reported in the New York Times, these dogs have been sold at record prices, the highest going for $1.9 million in 2014. The huge price tag is due to the implied "lion's blood" that comes with a 100% purebred Tibetan Mastiff. However, the Tibetan mastiff has also become a boast by their owners, inflating their prices; you are better off getting a pup here in America from a reputable breeder.

Arabian horse

It is difficult to understate how key the Arabian horse was in the development modern society. Believed to have dated back as far as 2500 B.C., the Arabian horse was a prized item among many cultures & considered a cherished spoil of war. It is no hesitation to say that some of the most significant historical events predating industrialization included the prized breed, such as Marengo, the favored mount of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The horse's prominence throughout history has made it a deeply admired breed, so its transition to becoming beloved pet is not surprising. The Arabian is highly intelligent & durable, making it perfect for long treks with a companion who is willing to put in the training. While Arabian horses have a reputation for being hot-blooded, many owners rebuke this claim. Seasoned rider Sanne Westeram, who has had the chance to ride Arabians in many different countries, speaks to their adaptability & easy approachability for trail riding.

The upkeep & housing of any horse already makes them expensive pets to own, & instead of purchasing one, you may want to look at co-op or boarding, bearing in mind that an Arabian horse can live between 25 & 30 years. To purchase an Arabian, you can expect to pay  between $5,000 to $30,000. For reference, that's more than 3 times the average price for most pet horses in the U.S, which runs between $500 & $3,000. The most expensive Arabian ever sold at the market was a stud named Pepita, going for 1.4 Million euros in 2014 (over $1.5 million U.S. dollars).

Stag beetle

Certainly, a stag beetle, a bug one can find in certain habitats naturally, can't be that expensive, can it? When it comes to bugs as pets, there is a bit of nuance here, particularly when considering the region. Bug collecting remains a niche hobby in North America, but the industry thrives in other countries. This includes Japan, where it is not uncommon for children to take up bug collecting.

For starting collectors in the USA, most species of stag beetles cost between $15 & $50 dollars, though some can fetch higher prices in the hundreds. This price is low considering its rarity, with the U.S.A. homing the Giant Stag Beetle as the most prominent species, but these numbers are not substantial. Beyond conservation efforts, entomology enthusiasts will collect stag beetles for their unique appearance & behavioral interests, including observing the breeding process.

Avid collectors may be looking to pay more as they search for the largest & most unique specimens. The highest on-record sale was a staggering (pun intended) $89,000. Other factors affecting price include rarity & supply, which can also lead to inflated prices for a specific beetle. The ins & outs of owning beetles can be daunting, as you need to be aware of any state restrictions. If interested, you should find enthusiast groups online to ensure you follow the right steps to give these mighty beetles a proper home.

Savannah cat

A hybrid between a wild African serval & the domestic house cat, the Savannah has risen in popularity in recent years, which has come with its controversies. Interest has led to some unwanted breeding practices & many owners being in over their heads with homing the very active cat breed, overwhelming potential owners who want that Instagrammable cat (they are profoundly beautiful felines) but don't understand the commitment needed. Savannahs can vary drastically depending on their 'type,' categorized by 'filial generation' & other factors, per Savy Paws.

Their type also indicates their price, with the most expensive coming from the 'F1' category, a distinction that indicates its genetically closest to its serval roots. The 'F1' can range between $10,000 & $18,000 in price compared to the later generations further removed from their African ancestors. The more domesticated savannah, 'F5 & above,' will cost its pet parent between $1,000 & $2,000, yet as far as which makes the best pet, the later generations are both more affordable & have a similar temperament to the more familiar domestic feline.

Pet parents who wants to own an exotic cat like this may run into legal problems depending on their state. 6 states have banned the ownership of any 'wild animals' (including exotic cats), & 7 don't allow for ownership of any feline above the 'F4' classification. Savannah Cats Association has details on which states restrict the savannah to pets.

Black Palm cockatoo

Those who have never been pet parents to a feathered friend may underestimate the abundance of compassion & entertainment they can bring. Cockatoos can make great pets for those who stay home & can dedicate essential time to the overly affectionate bird. The black palm cockatoo is no different in its constant need for attention, though this bird has become distinguished among the cockatoos for its looks; owners often covet it as one of the most beautiful breeds.

Native to New Guinea & Queensland, Australia, this hefty price is because the black palm is currently listed as endangered due to its shrinking native habitat & low breeding rates. This means a black palm cockatoo must be purchased through USDA-licensed breeders & that there may also be state-specific restrictions you must abide by. It is always best to research before considering homing a black palm or any exotic bird.

The breed's rarity, with limited sellers in the U.S., can make it challenging to find one of these prized birds for purchase. Searching online sellers shows that availability comes & goes, & prices can range between 8 & 16 thousand; some go even higher. It is also important to note that parrots have very long life spans, with the black palm living between 40 & 90 years. The cockatoo is a pet that needs an experienced & committed owner. There is a history of cockatoos & other exotic, long-living birds being abandoned or homeless (don't be that person).

Mini pigs

With their affectionate personalities & adorable looks (how can you not love those little tails), mini pigs have become a highly desired among pet parents. Their intelligence makes them comparable to cats & dogs, as you can house-train them, take them on walks, & teach them basic tricks. Still, with the popularity of these squealing cuties, there have been issues, including pigs not being matched with suitable homes. The rescue Home for Hooves reported that 9 out of 10 pot-belly pigs end up surrendered by their owners because they are unaware of the responsibility of owning a pig. Many pet parents have bought 'mini-pigs' only to find them grow upward of 200 pounds.

If you want a piglet from a breeder, the prices can range from $1,200 to $6,000 depending on age, size, & whether they are registered. With so many pigs surrendered, you can get a pet mini pig through resources such as the Pig Placement Network. However, regardless of where your pig comes from, ongoing costs can also vary drastically depending on how big your piggy gets. Each animal can eat 6 pounds per day of varied food & requires roughly 50 square feet of space to roam. If you want to purchase a porcine companion, you must be aware of any state or municipal restrictions regarding farm animals. Also, be wary of people selling 'teacup pigs.' A teacup pig is just a regular pot-belly pig.

Löwchen

The Lowchen may very well be one of the most adorable little dog breeds you will come across; their name means little lion from their native Germany. They may be a little borky, like many other smaller breeds, but they are overly affectionate dogs that fit in well with just about any family due to their kind & loving nature. Sadly, the popular European small breed had a tough go, & its numbers dwindled during the 2 World Wars. Its preservation owed almost entirely to one remarkable woman named Madame Bennert.

Lowchens are the ideal pet for those looking for small & charismatic companions, & their kind nature & adorable size come with the benefit that you don't have to worry about restrictions on owning this mini-lion. The higher price comes from the Lowchen being considered rare, even though its numbers have steadily increased yearly. The breed's scarcity is reflected in the price of puppies, which average between 4 & 8 thousand. Thankfully, this is a healthy breed with a 13 to 15-year lifespan, so they are generally more affordable after that steep adoption price.

Masked Angelfish

Those who own an aquarium & enjoy collecting exotic fish know how much prices can fluctuate depending on size, rarity, & appearance. The most expensive fish you can add to your tank is the Asian arowana, which can fetch upwards of $300,000. However, because the arowana is illegal to own in the U.S.A, we will focus on another coveted fish, the masked angelfish.

The masked angelfish is a protected species in its native Hawaii, & very few have been collected over the past several decades. Its rarity & beauty have made it highly valued by collectors, with one buyer in 2009 paying $30,000 for a pair of the fish. Online availability is scarce & dependent on stock, but one site has a single masked angelfish currently listed for just under $16,000.

A masked angelfish could certainly make a show stopping addition to any aquarium. When properly introduced, the prized angelfish can live harmoniously with other fish. That said, these fish still require plenty of space to swim, & its recommended they live in a space that is no smaller than a 150-gallon tank. Though there are no specific restrictions on owning a masked angelfish, it is important to check state & city laws concerning the owning & transporting of rare species.

Capybara

The capybara has the title of the largest rodent in the world, weighing between 60 to 174 pounds, & measuring between 3.2 to 4.2 feet long. Capybaras can be shy & struggle to connect with their owners; they require patience & understanding from anyone who wishes to adopt them. Still, they are naturally affectionate creatures that love to talk & vocalize through grunts, purrs, & various other sounds. A caretaker may attempt to talk back to help their pet feel welcome, but it is recommended that capybaras are bought in pairs to ensure their social requirements are met. 

Purchasing prices range depending on location, but, generally, you can expect roughly $2,500 for one, though females can fetch a slightly higher price. Before even considering adoption, you need to be aware of restrictions, as only 13 states allow the capybara as a pet. There may be further restrictions based on the municipality. These are not starter rodents; you may want to begin with the under appreciated yet adorable rat before trying to home one of these impressively sized creatures.

The giant rodents also need plenty of outdoor space, as you cannot litter-train these big pets. One-to-3 capybaras will require a fenced-in area of approximately 240 square feet, access to a water hole at least 3.5 feet deep. You must also be prepared for food costs, as an adult male capybara can eat up to 6 to 8 pounds daily.

Burmese star tortoise

The Burmese star tortoise has become prized for its beautifully patterned & unique shell shape; some compare its lush colors & layout to a floral arrangement. To keep as pets, these turtles need a fair amount of open space, growing between 10 & 13 inches. These tortoises are native to Myanmar & require proper environmental care & indoor accommodations. 

Any potential pet parent should also note that the Burmese star tortoise is considered endangered & has never been traded legally outside of its native country. Their status plays into the morality of owning this beautifully patterned turtle, as sales from breeders will have their roots in illegal trade. At the same time, the future of the animal in the wild is now uncertain, meaning that captive & conserved species may be the only chance this species has to survive. 

The cost to purchase a Burmese star tortoise ranges between $1,000 to $5,000. Subsequent costs can add up fast, with the need for a remodeled outdoor space that provides a turtle run & access to water. Depending on the climate, tortoise parents made need to invest in an indoor space, too. Putting aside the morality of owning an endangered species, you may face state & federal restrictions, as well as fees with owning a Burmese star tortoise outside of conservation; Maine, for example, requires owners of certain exotic reptiles to have a permit. Any out-of-country purchases of the Burmese star tortoise are highly illegal. 

Green tree python

Tracking the sale of the coveted green tree python can be difficult, with some unverified reports mentioning that it has sold for as high as $445,80, marking it the most expensive snake in the world. However, there is some nuance when collecting pet snakes, as some can be more prized for their appearance (morph rarity), & 2 slithery pets of the same type can go for drastically different prices. The reported high-end sale is possible, considering it could have been a rare morph, but the green tree python still fetches a hefty price, ranging from $400 to just under $1,000.

Caring for these giant reptiles incurs additional expenses. You are looking at over 1,000 dollars for a proper home with all the bells & whistles to keep your scaly friend content, coming with a potential hike in your electricity bill to keep their lights on. On top of that, feeding a green tree python will cost around $50 to $100 a month. And, considering they live up to 20 years, those costs become a long-term commitment.

Native to New Guinea, Indonesia, & Australia, the green tree python has been subject to species protection & trade restrictions. Still, thanks to local breeders, the legality of owning a green tree python depends solely on any state & municipal restrictions. Snakes can be adorable to the proper pet parent, but careful consideration is required before bringing such a large species into a home.

Bengal cat

Like the Savanah, the Bengal is a crossbreed of domestic cats, & a wild breed, the Asian leopard cat. Bengals are considered extremely rare because they have a highly restricted breeding standard. For this reason, if you're purchasing a Bengal from a reputable breeder, expect to pay between $1,500 & $3,000 for a kitten. However, depending on the specific type (such as one variation that is mixed instead with the Amur leopard cat), prices can go as high as $10,000 or more. 

For a third-generation Bengal, you can expect to pay around $2,000 which comes from the costs incurred by a reputable breeder. According to The Bengal Connection, most breeders will barely profit from adoptions. The cat breed is generally healthy, but they are also prone to some genetic issues, so a reputable breeder who can test for any problems will be the way to go to save in the long run.

The Bengal has a playful nature, & these friendly felines are adaptable when appropriately socialized at a young age, making them great family pets, though they can be more independent. Like the Savannah, the Bengal is illegal in some U.S. states because its exotic animal status makes it exempt from rabies vaccinations. Its also subject to restrictions based on its 'F' type, which tells which generation of crossbreed it is.

Read More: https://www.cuteness.com/1715073/most-expensive-types-of-pets/

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August 17/2025

                                 

Why Do Baby Cheetahs Look Less Like Their Parents As Cubs?

By Morrison Chantesha   

9/ 5/ 2025 

Who doesn't love an adorable baby animal? The arrival of cheetah cubs always captures attention, especially when zoos announce newborn litters to the public. Next to their mother's golden coat & sharp black spots, the cubs look strikingly different. Fluffy fur, faint markings, & a silvery mantle down the back give them a softer, almost otherworldly look, as if they belonged to a different species altogether.

This mismatch is not simply a matter of growing into an adult body, however. The earliest weeks of life are the most dangerous for cheetahs, & cubs do not yet possess the strength their species is known for. Their coats mirror that vulnerability. What may seem like an unusual coat beside an adult is, in reality, an adaptation designed for survival. The silver mantle shields them from the weather, while hazy markings break up their shape in the grass & shade. These traits also resemble another animal predators instinctively avoid: the honey badger. Through this mimicry, the newborn's coat works as camouflage & impersonation, a disguise for surviving the vulnerable stages into adulthood.

Cheetah cub coat mimicry may turn predators away

Cheetah cubs carry markings that mimic honey badgers, animals feared on the savanna for their tenacity. A pale streak across the back & a dark mask on the face give the young cats an outline closer to a badger's shape than to their mother's sleek build, a look that can make lions, leopards, & hyenas hesitate before attacking. For youngsters unable to rely on speed, that hesitation can be enough to keep them alive. 

Mortality rates show how much is at stake: up to 90% of cubs may die before reaching adolescence, often when their mothers are forced to leave them unguarded while hunting. That high mortality rate also shows up in managed care, even without predators nearby. Zookeepers pair cheetahs at zoos with support dogs, providing cubs with a calming presence to help them survive. In nature, survival depends on maternal vigilance. Accounts of big cat moms in the wild describe successful mothers as ones who shift dens frequently & remain alert through the riskiest months. Mimicry adds one more layer to these defenses, lasting only until cubs are strong enough to survive on speed alone.

Every cheetah cub carries a unique signature of spots

Baby cheetah spots begin soft & distinct, giving each cub a coat that differs from its siblings. The placement of these spots is fixed from birth & does not change with age. Each cub carries a layout of markings that is its own, a pattern that remains consistent into adulthood.

These markings give researchers a reliable way to follow individuals through time, helping to track them through their lives. Photographs taken in the den can later be matched to grown cheetahs on the open plains, offering science a way to study survival without collars or tags. Cubs may slip out of sight in grass as easily as cats are good at hiding, but their spots ensure they are never mistaken for another. As they mature, their markings sharpen into the crisp spots that define adults. The unchanging patterns help link the faintly marked newborn to the swift hunter it becomes.

Read More: https://www.cuteness.com/1957781/why-baby-cheetahs-not-look-like-parents-as-cubs-honey-badger/

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Sept. 10/2025

                      

One Pet Fish Type Can Live Longer Than The Rest (Here's How)

By Adam Symchuk   

3/ 7/ 2025 

Pet fish can be the perfect highlight in a stunning outdoor garden or a vibrant focal point in a room where their aquarium showcases the beauty of aquatic life. While some people dismiss fish as pets — citing perceived lack of intelligence or short lifespans relative to cost — many of these assumptions are based on misconceptions. In reality, fish can have an abundance of personality & some species are among the longest-living pets. One, in particular, stands out for its remarkable longevity: the koi. With proper care, these elegant carp can become lifelong companions, outliving popular pets like cats & dogs.

Koi fish are cherished globally for their unique markings & docile nature. With the right care, they can live between 25 & 40 years under optimal conditions in domestic ponds & environments. This lifespan surpasses that of the goldfish, a fish that isn't as easy for beginners as once thought, which usually lives 10 to 30 years under proper care. However, the koi's impressive longevity does not come naturally, & owners must provide them with a tailored environment & adequate care to help them thrive.

Replicating a Koi's natural habitat, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring clean water, & allowing them to hibernate are essential steps for nurturing these prized fish & ensuring they live long, healthy lives.

The ideal conditions for a koi

Koi thrive best in an environment mimicking their native habitat, particularly an outdoor mud pond. A mud pond is an excavated area filled with water, often lined with Bentonite clay if the natural soil is unsuitable. These ponds cultivate natural food sources like algae, insects, & other invertebrates. Having ample space & encouraging natural behaviors is ideal for raising a koi.

However, caring for koi goes far beyond simply building a pond & putting the carp in it. A potential breeder/owner must optimize oxygen levels, pH balance, & water quality. Koi also flourish in communities with other pet fish, even developing distinct personalities. They coexist well with goldfish if both species' needs are equally met.

Wintering is crucial in helping koi achieve a longer lifespan. While this process requires careful preparation & presents challenges in changing feeding & maintaining their space, allowing koi to hibernate during winter mimics their natural environment & slows their metabolism. Although koi can live long lives, reaching their maximum life expectancy depends on carefully considering essential factors.

Additional factors that can affect lifespan

Koi fish are known for their impressive lifespan no matter where they are located. However, their longevity is even more remarkable in Japan, their country of origin. This can be attributed primarily to their cultural significance. In Japan, the Koi symbolizes various things such as courage, perseverance, bravery, virility, strength, & love; effigies of the fish are also often given as good luck charms for students before exams. This reverence for the pristine carp translates into more thorough care for the health & longevity of the koi.

Japanese koi are considered a stronger breed than those in the West, with breeders focusing on maintaining a high-quality gene pool & achieving larger sizes. The best koi fish also rarely leave Japan, making it harder for outside breeders to achieve similar outcomes. Their care extends to feeding practices, as Japanese koi are often transferred to large earth ponds, allowing them to grow in spacious environments with access to natural food sources. 

In contrast, many Western koi owners prioritize growing their pet fish faster over offering a natural diet. Japan's cold winters also ensure that the carp undergoes a natural winterization, a process not always as adhered to by owners outside their native country. Regardless of where their koi originates, those willing to invest the effort will find a long-living, beautiful pet with abundant personality.

Read More: https://www.cuteness.com/1801427/pet-koi-fish-lifespan-lives-longest/

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Sept. 3/2025

                               
One Of The World's Most Feared Spiders Can Live Up To 30 Years As A Pet

By Rosie Govin   

2/15/ 2025 

Spiders aren't always the first animals potential pet owners consider. They're not quite as cuddly as dogs or cats, they have twice as many legs, & the fear of them is one of the most well-known & widely-experienced phobias. However, if you don't suffer from arachnophobia or you simply want to bring a fascinating creature into your household, think about adding a tarantula to your family.

These big, fuzzy spiders are extremely low-maintenance pets. If they're cared for properly, they can live for up to 20 or 30 years, depending on the breed, which puts them toward the very top of the list of the average life spans of popular pets. Interestingly, female tarantulas are often much bigger & live much longer than their male counterparts. Lifespans also vary from breed to breed, with some, like the female pink toe tarantula, living closer to 10 years. On the other hand, the Mexican red-knee lives between 20 & 30 years old for females, & 10 years old for males.

There are nearly 1,000 species of tarantulas, & some breeds make better pets than others, especially for beginner tarantula owners. Breeds like Mexican red-knee, Chilean rose, & Honduran curly hair tarantulas are known to be slow-moving & fairly calm, making them easier to handle for the inexperienced tarantula owner. However, it's important to note that tarantulas shouldn't be handled unless necessary, as they can bite if they feel threatened.

Benefits of owning a tarantula

Compared to many other pets, the list of care requirements for tarantulas is fairly short. This makes them ideal for the busy pet owner who doesn't care to own an animal that needs lots of attention & affection. They're also quiet, so if you live in an apartment or noise is a concern, it doesn't get much more silent than a tarantula when it comes to pets.

The cost of owning a tarantula is also relatively low compared to lots of other pets, & they don't take up a ton of space, either. If you have a pet that likes to cheat the no furniture rule by jumping on couches, you may be happy to know tarantulas won't. In fact, they thrive in fairly contained spaces. Other added benefits? No fur, drool, or accidents on the carpet to contend with.

Lastly, everyone is familiar with what a dog does or how a cat moves, but you don't see tarantulas every day (unless you own one, of course). Just watching them exist is interesting, & for the right pet parent who will appreciate them for exactly who they are, a tarantula could be a wonderful addition to their life.

How to help your tarantula enjoy a long life

Tarantulas are solitary animals who do best as the only one in their habitat, which should be a 20-gallon aquarium or larger. They should be kept in a quiet area that's not overly bright. Their tank will need a substrate; a layer of soft, organic material they can spin a web over — it's how tarantulas adapt to their environment. Good options include coconut coir, peat moss, or even regular topsoil. You can also add a few rocks for climbing. They do require a hiding space, which could be as simple as a small flower pot on its side. In general, tarantula habitats should be kept humid & warm, between 70 & 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

You only have to feed your tarantula a few times a week & refill their shallow water dish daily. They need to eat live food, mainly insects like crickets, mealworms, & dubia roaches. Dr. Krista Keller of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine warns, "Some people may be tempted to drop several crickets at one time to feed their spider throughout the week. However, this practice may lead to injuries." It's best to instead clean up what they don't eat after about 10 minutes.

Importantly, your tarantula shouldn't be handled often. If they feel threatened, they can bite, & tarantula bites are venomous. The reaction from most species' bites is usually comparable to a bee sting, but it varies from individual to individual. They can also release their spiky hairs as a defense mechanism, which can burrow into your skin & irritate it.

Read More: https://www.cuteness.com/1776743/how-long-do-tarantulas-live-low-maintenance-pets/

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