What are the hidden costs of breeding?

Many think that if a breeder charges more then $500 for a dog, then they are in it for the profit.

To give you a rough idea of costs over the last 3 months, I've spent:

• $1,000 additional supplies

• $5,660 vet care (includes puppy vaccinations, x-rays and emergency c-section)

• Approximately $2,000 in dog food

• Approximately $900 in quality protein for my girls

• $300 cleaning supplies

If I were to add an additional dog to my program, I'll have the cost of the pup but then I am also paying for genetic testing. This can be anywhere from $500 - 900 USD per dog. If the tests come back and aren't ideal, I am paying to spay/neuter a pup that I've invested in but won't be adding to my program. Perhaps this is why most breeders don't invest in genetic testing, for them it's better not to know. The reality is though, if both dogs are a carrier for certain genetic markers, puppies will be at a higher risk of developing that condition throughout their life.

These are just some things to consider when choosing a breeder.

When I calculate my costs some years, I am operating at a loss. Why do I keep doing it? Some days I ask myself this question but honestly, when I see how happy my pups are making families, it makes the long hours worth it.