For anyone who has been owning dogs for several years, it is in an unavoidable truth, that like everything else the cost of puppies has increased.
How the Pandemic changed things
The Pandemic proved to be an expensive time for those wanting to purchase a puppy. Undoubtedly, scarcity brought prices up, but alongside that there were shortages of things and so the things needed to rear a healthy litter became more expensive.
The difference in breeders
However, what needs to be made clear is that not all breeders breed the same way. Some owners have their dogs in outside spaces, kennels or sheds. These are minimally cleaned spaces and the interaction with families and outside distractions including socialisation and environment experiences are limited. Others may have a limited interest in the breeding guidelines and ethos that other breeders have about trying with each litter to improve on the parents and maintain healthy, happy dogs. The latter, of which we care greatly about.
Key reasons for price difference
Below you will find the key reasons for Labrador puppies being the price they are, but if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Labrador puppies are the price they are, for a variety of reasons, including:
- Breeding and health testing: Responsible breeders will conduct health testing on their dogs to ensure that they are not passing on genetic health conditions to their offspring. They may also spend significant amounts of money on breeding costs, such as stud fees, artificial insemination, and veterinary care for the mother and puppies. (Scans, blood and progesterone testing to name but a few.) For us, we believe that when you take a dog into your life, they will become a member of your family. As such, you will want to make every effort to ensure the best for his or her health and happiness. To start with the best health scores provides a solid foundation for your pet’s future. Although, we never know what challenges may befall us, to be starting from a place of health is a positive thing and for that reason we will only ever breed with the best Labrador specimens in the country. (No matter the distance this may entail travelling!)
- Reputable Breeders: Puppies from reputable breeders who have a history of producing healthy, well-tempered dogs are more in demand. Due to this reason we do not sell ‘discount’ dogs. When you buy a car, do you buy one where there are no air bags? Dodgy tires? No, you buy for safety and reliability. Don’t cut corners on your choice of dog – or you might spend a lot of time at the vets…
- Training and socialization: Reputable breeders will often invest time and money in socializing and training their puppies before they go to their new homes. This can include things like early neurological stimulation, introduction to different people and environments, and basic obedience training. These extra efforts can increase the cost of the puppies. (Puppy Culture and Poop School are just two of the Courses we are members of and whose practives we employ)
- Care and feeding: Raising puppies requires a lot of time and effort, as well as a significant financial investment in food, veterinary care, and supplies. Breeders who go above and beyond to provide high-quality care for their puppies may charge more for their puppies to offset these costs. (24 hour care for a minimum of 4 weeks – imagine the cost of this if charged for the puppy!)
What are the most expensive dog breeds?
What are the most expensive dog breeds in the UK?
Here are the top five most expensive dog breeds to buy, according to their average costs:
- Italian Greyhound – £3,500
- Samoyed – £3,000
- Bernese Mountain Dog – £2,688
- Chow Chow – £2,663
- Irish Wolfhound – £2,500
So, why are Labrador puppies the price they are?
It’s important to note that while Labrador puppies can be expensive, it’s often worth paying a higher price for a well-bred, healthy puppy from a reputable breeder who provides proper care, socialization, and training. Alongside this, the breeder should be someone you like, and you feel you can trust.
Do you think this is a person you will be able to come back to them with any questions or queries? Are there any reviews of them? Testimonials? How does the bitch look? Happy? Well-fed? Post puppies they will lose a lot of weight and so a reputable breeder will invest a lot in her recovery diet. (Think mince, roast chicken, tripe, cottage cheese, boiled eggs… ‘Mother’s Pudding’…. to name but a few!)
Are there pictures of past litters, or puppies anywhere online?
This can help ensure that you end up with a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted dog that will be a beloved member of your family for years to come.