01/05/2023
I shared this from a fellow breeder friend.
I am so thankful for the ones that have been supportive of us. My dogs aren't quite this much but my family and myself sacrifice everyday. It's something we truly love but my family and my time are valuable. Not to mention the countless hours spent talking and answering people who have no intent to buy. My breeding stock cost 3000-10000 easy per dog especially now I'm getting into titled dogs. Health testing is more around 800-1000 and that's only if they are breed worthy. If they don't pass I rehome for less than 10 percent of just what I have in them not counting training etc.
POTENTIAL OWNER: How much is the puppy?
BREEDER: $2,000
POTENTIAL OWNER: What?? It's way too expensive!!
BREEDER: What do you think would be a good price?
POTENTIAL OWNER: No more than $500. You breeders are so over priced.
BREEDER: I am sorry you see it this way, why don't you try it yourself?
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I've never done it!
BREEDER: For FREE I can teach you how to do it, and in addition you will have the knowledge to do it again.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Perfect, thank you!
BREEDER: To start you will need a female(average cost $3000 and up). Also a male(average cost $3000 and up) or semen (average $1500 and up). You will need to do genetic & health testing on them, averages about $1200 per dog. Raise and provide daily care, feeding & grooming for 2 years. (So minimal $250 per month)
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have that much money...
BREEDER: For $500 you can raise a litter and then keep one of the puppies. Obviously, you will pay the cost of whelping & care.
POTENTIAL OWNER: I can do that.
BREEDER: OK so I have a female due to whelp in 2 weeks. You will need to be available 24/7 around the clock for at least 8 weeks to help with delivery and care.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Eight weeks?? it's way too much time for me! I have to work.
BREEDER: You will also need the reproductive vet to do xrays($200-$300), possibly progesterone testing($100-$250) & C-section($2000-$5000) and initial vet care on pups until old enough to be placed.
Have on hand a scale, thermometer, latex gloves, sanitizer, absorbent tissues, scissors, hemostats, heating pad, whelping box, blankets, cleaning supplies, appropriate food with supplements for mothers, formula, medications & hand feeding supplies in case of emergency....
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have all these things!
BREEDER: For $1000 you can buy them.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Ummm .... You know, I think it might be better if I just buy a puppy.
BREEDER: Wise decision.
For us breeders there are no vacations or holidays, while you go to visit with family & friends we are home at our dogs side caring for them. It is a no breaks commitment.
THIS IS THE REALITY
When you choose a professional you don't only pay for the puppy but also:
Tools, knowledge, experience, love, time, sacrifices, etc.