09/22/2023
This is why so many of us are having to close doors to our passion for our breeds. When you decide to breed for yourself, because you see us doing it and you think we are just making money, and then tell us that you found a pup for far cheaper. You pay for what you get. I can not tell you how many have returned after being scammed, gotten a sick pup and worse, bought or recieved a free pup with parvo and its died and in some cases killed their other dog at home. Please support ethical breeders, and please discourage those breeding for a quick dollar or because they want a pup from their dog. We sacrifice so much and lose far more than we gain. You're not ready. No one ever is, but we do our best with research, mentors, vets, genetics, our resources and time... we forgo vacations, going out to eat etc... we drop everything and sacrifice so much for what we love to have it picked apart and chastised for what it's worth.
We love our pup parents and our Leather & Lace family. Its been a hard road from the start, the last year and a half has been monumentally hard. We understand times are hard for everyone. But a pup is not free, even when obtained free.. and raising them is a full time job. 24/7, 365. You wouldn't work those hours for free, don't ask it of us. And yes there is wonderful success in adopting. But trust 90% of the time is not a reputable breeder that is the cause of the dog in a shelter. Making an educated decision to purchase a sound and healthy lifetime companion is not a villainy either.
Animals/pets depend on us. There is no, I'm sick, it's too cold/hot, I as a human come first. We are here to service them. And if you can't see that sacrifice, or honor that we do it, maybe consider not having one then. And certainly don't tell a breeder what their work is worth.
POTENTIAL OWNER: How much is the puppy?
BREEDER: $1800+ dollars.
POTENTIAL OWNER: What?? It's way too expensive!!
BREEDER: What do you think would be a good price?
POTENTIAL OWNER: No more than $500. You breeders are so overpriced.
BREEDER: I am sorry you see it this way; why don't you try it yourself?
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I've never done it!
BREEDER: For FREE, I can teach you how to do it, and you will also have the knowledge of how to do it again.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Perfect, thank you!
BREEDER: To start, you will need a female(average cost $3500 and up)and a male(average cost $3500 and up) or semen (average $2000-$2500 and up). You will need to do genetic & health testing on them, which averages about $800+ per dog.
Let's not forget progesterone testings, inseminations, ultrasounds, x-rays, semen collections, semen analysis, potentially semen overnight shipping, and so on ($1500+).
Raise and provide daily care, feeding & grooming for two years. (minimal $250 per month) Oh, don’t forget monthly prevention, annual vet visits, and any other additional vet visits.
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have that much money...
BREEDER: For $1200, you can raise a litter and then keep one of the puppies. Obviously, you will pay the cost of whelping & care.
POTENTIAL OWNER: I can do that.
BREEDER: OK, so I have a female due to whelp in 2 weeks. You will need to be available 24/7 around the clock for at least eight weeks to help with delivery and care. ( a million loads of laundry) Another 4-plus weeks to monitor mom and puppies.
POTENTIAL OWNER: twelve weeks?? It's way too much time for me! I have to work.
BREEDER: Plus, You will need to be available for puppy families to call you 24/7 with a worry or concern, no matter the age. You MUST also be ready to take back the puppy/dog at any age if the family has an unforeseen emergency.
BREEDER: You will also need the reproductive vet to do progesterone testing($110/ test ), X-ray to get headcount ($100) & C-section($1000-$5000 if needed), and initial vet care on pups until old enough to be placed ($800+).
Have on hand a scale, thermometer, latex gloves, puppy pads, incubator, oxygen concentrator, nebulizer, heating lamp, whelping box, puppy pen, blankets, toys, bowls, cleaning supplies, appropriate food with supplements for mothers, formula, medications & hand feeding supplies in case of emergency...
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have all these things!
BREEDER: For $5000+, you can buy them.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Ummm .... You know, I think it might be better if I just buy a puppy.
BREEDER: Wise decision.
For us, there are no vacations or holidays; while you go to visit with family & friends, we are home at our dogs' side caring for them. It is a no-break commitment.
THIS IS THE REALITY
When you choose a reputable person, you aren’t only purchasing the puppy but also knowledge, support, experience, love, time, sacrifices, etc...
**Plus the cost of lifetime support to the puppy owners…
These numbers are just the tip of the iceberg, (best-case scenario!!!) As a reputable breeder who takes on this journey full-time!
Very well said…
*Copied and edited from another breeder*
