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What determines the price and is it negotiable?
It's common for price to vary among puppies in the same litter; certain colors and markings are more desired and often less common, so those puppies tend to be a little more expensive. This primarily applies to doodles with Merle (most expensive), Parti, and Phantom markings, but Miniature breeds will often come with a higher price as well. We try to set fair prices, consistent with other reputable breeders, but quite a bit lower than the $3000+ often set by breeders that offer health guarantees.
Our prices are firm until the puppies are 10 weeks old. At that time we may consider dropping the price a little depending on how much interest we've had and the time left on advertisements. That said, we have not had any problems finding homes for our puppies; smaller litters are likely to have deposits on all pups prior to them reaching 6 weeks, larger litters may take a week or two longer depending on time of year and how much we advertise, but rarely do we have puppies available after 8-9 weeks old.
We take deposits on the puppies before they're ready to go home, and do so on a first-come basis, but do not take deposits or have a waiting list for future litters. If you are confident you want a specific puppy, don't wait to put down a deposit; they will go quickly and almost every litter we have somebody that missed out because they were still trying to decide. Even with a firm commitment, we will not hold a puppy for more than 24 hours without a deposit.
Also, keep in mind the purchase price is only a portion of the overall cost of ownership. Make sure you are prepared for all the associated costs so that your new family member is properly cared for.
Estimated initial costs include (reduced if you already have some items):
- $250 for food, bowls, crate, bed, collar, leash, brush, toys, treats, cleaner, etc.
- $450 for vet visits (4 rounds shots, check-ups, spay/neuter, Heartgard, flea & tick)
- $1000+ if you install fencing, playpens, dog house, etc.
Annual costs can easily run $1000+ as well including food, treats, toys, grooming, vaccinations, vet check-ups, etc. Also, factor in repair/replacement of items that get chewed up, more frequent carpet cleaning, boarding when away on vacation, obedience training, medical bills, and other random expenses.
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