The current average price for a puppy from fully health tested parents is $4,000 – $5,000.

Do breeders pass on costs to buyers?   Should a puppy bred from imported stud dog or semen result in a higher price?

Importing dogs and semen is expensive. Breeding dogs is expensive. At best, breeders hope to cover their costs when breeding a litter. More often than not, with small litters the costs substantially outweigh the monies recouped in puppy sales.   However, if you are buying a puppy as a companion animal, the price should not be inflated more than the average price for a puppy.

If I pay more can I guarantee a better quality puppy?

NO!!! The price is not indicative of quality. Such a price is unfortunately usually relative to what the public will pay.

Quality to an owner should relate to how well one can talk to and relate to the breeder, both before and after purchasing the puppy. Trust and reliability in the documentation of the puppy, its health testing and that of its parents should form a solid basis for quality.

Quality relates to the health and soundness of the puppy you are purchasing, whether for a pet or a show dog.

If you, as a member of the public, wish to spend an exorbitant amount of money for a so-called ‘rare’ colour, that is your prerogative. However, please ensure all the correct (and complete) health testing has been carried out on the parents of the puppy prior to purchase, this includes certified radiographs of the spines and hips and DNA testing for all hereditary conditions, not just colour. Be sure to request and sight ALL documentation.