The breeding costs in detail

Buying a puppy from a breeder is an investment, but why? The costs associated with breeding and raising a puppy go far beyond the basic costs of food and vaccinations. Breeders who work with passion and knowledge place great importance on health, species-appropriate care, and the best possible socialization . Numerous factors lie behind the price of a puppy, which surprises many prospective dog owners. In this article, we take a closer look at breeding costs and show what constitutes a fair price for a puppy.

Breeding costs in detail: How is the price for a puppy determined?

There's a common misconception that breeders of purebred dogs make a fortune selling puppies. However, this assumption ignores the reality of dog breeding. The high breeding costs necessary to ensure the health and well-being of the animals sometimes even exceed the income from sales. Reputable breeders invest not only in the health of their breeding animals, but also in the rearing and socialization of the puppies. The proceeds often cover only a fraction of the expenses. Therefore, it's important to consider the financial aspects of breeding realistically and recognize the responsibility that comes with breeding purebred dogs.

Breeding costs are comprised of various factors that are often overlooked. Many of these costs are crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of the puppies. From comprehensive health screenings for the breeding animals to the necessary facilities and high-quality breeding to ongoing training for the breeders, every investment has a direct impact on the quality of the puppies. In the following sections, we'll take a look at the specific costs associated with responsible breeding.

Costs for breeding approval, often overlooked in breeding costs

Breeding approval is the permission granted by a recognized cynological association (such as the VDH in Germany). It is based on the fulfillment of certain requirements that ensure that breeding is conducted responsibly and in accordance with animal welfare principles.

To obtain breeding approval, breeders must meet a number of requirements, which typically involve conducting extensive health examinations of their breeding animals. These include testing for hip dysplasia (HD), elbow dysplasia (ED), and genetic testing to ensure the animals are free of hereditary diseases.

Breeding approval may also include fees for processing applications and inspecting the breeding facility. Fees are often also required for participation in breeding facility inspections or breed shows to confirm the suitability of the breeding facility.

Cost points

Registration with the cynological association: Breeding license fees can range from €300 to €600, depending on the association and specific requirements.

The costs for the association's inspection of the breeding facility are typically between €100 and €300. This includes the inspector's travel expenses and the time required for the assessment.

Participation in breeding shows, which is often required for breeding approval, can cost between €50 and €150 per event, depending on the scope and organizer.

Many associations require breeders to attend training courses to keep their knowledge up to date. The cost of such seminars and training courses can range from €100 to €500 per event.

Breeding costs: health examinations

Health examinations are a central part of the breeding process and serve to protect the dogs and ensure the quality of the breeding.

Cost points

Genetic testing: These tests can indicate hereditary diseases or genetic predispositions, which vary depending on the breed . Cost: approximately €150–€600 per test.

HD/ED X-rays: These X-rays help diagnose hip and elbow dysplasia, common genetic diseases in dogs. Cost: approximately €200–500 per examination.

Eye examinations: These tests check for hereditary eye diseases that can affect a dog's vision . Cost: approximately €100–250.

Vaccinations: These are crucial for protection against common diseases and are administered in multiple doses. Cost: approximately €100 per puppy until delivery.

Deworming : Regular deworming is important to ensure the health of the puppies and prevent parasite infestation. Cost: approximately €20 per puppy until the time of adoption.

General health checks: A general veterinary examination to assess the health of the puppies before they are handed over. Cost: approximately €80–100.

Breeding costs: Covering/stud fee

Mating refers to the process by which a female dog is inseminated by a male dog to produce puppies. In dog breeding, it is important that this union is well planned, both in terms of quality and health. Breeders carefully select the right male to ensure the genetic combination of the offspring is advantageous. Factors such as health, breed standards, and temperament traits play a crucial role.

The stud fee is the fee breeders pay to use a male to mate their female. The amount of this fee can vary greatly and depends on several factors.

For a well-tested and recognized male, the stud fee is typically between €500 and €1,500. For particularly sought-after males or champion dogs, the stud fee can even be as high as €1,200 to €2,500. And if the male isn't nearby, additional travel costs may need to be factored in.

Breeding costs: Infrastructure of the breeding facility

The infrastructure of the breeding facility plays a crucial role in the well-being of the bitches and puppies, as well as in the successful conduct of the breeding program. A well-equipped breeding facility must not only be hygienic but also meet the specific needs of the dogs. This room should provide the bitches with a quiet and safe space for giving birth and raising their puppies. This room should be equipped with a suitable whelping box that provides the bitches with sufficient space for birth and the well-being of the puppies.

Puppies need ample space to play and learn, explore their environment, and develop social skills. A safe outdoor area equipped with toys and appropriate materials promotes puppies' physical and mental development .

The breeding facility must be cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent disease and infection. Good ventilation and adequate lighting are also important to create a comfortable and healthy environment for the dogs.

A small area that can be used for veterinary examinations and treatments is advantageous. Basic medical supplies and equipment should be available here to enable rapid initial care for the dogs.

Security measures are crucial to ensure that dogs do not escape and can move around safely in the area. These include appropriate fences, secure exits, and possibly monitoring systems.

Cost points

The cost of a high-quality whelping box is between €500 and €1500, depending on size and features.

Depending on the size and features, furnishings for play and socialization areas can cost between €1,000 and €2,000.

Typically, breeders should invest in high-pressure cleaners, disinfectants, and suitable cleaning materials, which can incur additional costs of approximately €200 to €500.

The cost of setting up a veterinary area can range from approximately €300 to €1,000, depending on the equipment.

Breeding costs: Puppy rearing

Raising puppies is a responsible and time-consuming task that is crucial for the dogs' later development. High-quality rearing not only influences the puppies' health but also their social skills and behavior.

Cost points

A balanced and high-quality diet is essential for the healthy development of puppies. From the third week of life, puppies require special puppy food tailored to their needs. The cost of high-quality puppy food can range from €50 to €70 per puppy, depending on the brand and specific needs.

To provide the puppies with a safe and stimulating environment, breeders should invest in appropriate toys, blankets, and other materials. These costs can vary between €100 and €400 per litter, depending on the equipment and the number of puppies.

It's important to begin basic training measures as early as puppyhood to shape the dog's behavior. This includes introducing simple commands and encouraging good behavior. Breeders who attend training courses or invest in training methods themselves can expect additional costs of €200 to €600.

The first weeks of life are crucial for the socialization of puppies. Breeders must ensure that the puppies grow up in a stimulating environment that allows them to experience different sounds, smells, and other animals. This also includes interaction with people to foster a good bond. The time breeders invest in socialization cannot be directly translated into money, but it is invaluable for the dogs' later development.

Average breeding costs in total. The financial reality of puppy breeding

Overall, it is clear that the breeding costs of puppies are associated with diverse and sometimes considerable costs, which include both one-off and ongoing expenses.

The running costs per puppy, including high-quality puppy food, socialization, care and training, amount to approximately €500 to €1,200.

Medical costs, such as vaccinations and deworming, can amount to approximately €100 to €200 per puppy until the puppy is handed over.

One-off costs such as health checks for the parents , breeding licenses, and infrastructure can quickly add up and typically range between €1,500 and €3,000 or more, depending on the breeding practice and requirements. It's clear, then, that reputable breeders not only invest time and effort into raising their puppies, but also have to allocate significant financial resources to ensure the health and well-being of the animals. Look at these figures and ask yourself the next time you see a seemingly high puppy price: Is the breeder really making a fortune? It's important to consider the price of a puppy in the context of these extensive costs.

C. Kaul