The True Cost of Ethical Doodle Breeding 2024

Introduction

Breeding dogs can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Beyond the obvious joy of bringing new life into the world, breeding comes with significant financial and ethical responsibilities. Many potential breeders overlook the true cost of breeding, both in terms of money and the welfare of the animals involved. This article aims to shed light on these aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Ah, the dream of breeding puppies. It conjures images of fluffy bundles of joy frolicking around, tails wagging, while you bask in the glow of their adorable antics. But let's get real for a moment. Breeding puppies is not the Instagram-perfect fantasy many imagine. It's more like a whirlwind of chaos, cuteness, and an astonishing amount of, well, poop.

The Poop Chronicles

Let's start with the most glamorous aspect of puppy breeding—the poop. You might think, "How much can those little furballs possibly produce?" Well, hold onto your scooper because a single litter of puppies can churn out over 2,000 pounds of waste in their first eight weeks. Yes, you read that right. That's the weight of a small car. Suddenly, your pristine living room transforms into a battlefield where you're armed with cleaning supplies, valiantly fighting to keep the mess at bay. Never mind the smell.

Sleepless Nights Galore

Remember those days when you could sleep through the night without interruption? Kiss them goodbye. Newborn puppies are like tiny, furry alarm clocks that don't come with a snooze button. They need constant attention, feeding, and care, especially during the night. It's like having a house full of crying newborns, but instead of human babies, you've got a squad of yapping, wriggling pups. Who needs sleep anyway?

The Financial Reality Check

If you're thinking breeding puppies is a money-making venture, brace yourself for a reality check. Let's not forget the ongoing care costs. We break this down for you below.

The Unsold Puppy Dilemma

Now, picture this—you've nurtured your puppies, watched them grow, and hoped to find them all loving homes. But what if they don't sell? The cute, bouncing puppies become older, bigger, and hungrier. The urgency to find good homes intensifies as each week passes. Meanwhile, your wallet feels lighter, and you swear you hear the faint sound of cash registers every time you buy another bag of puppy food.

Caring for unsold puppies isn't just a financial burden; it takes an emotional toll too. Imagine looking into those pleading eyes, knowing you're responsible for their well-being. It's enough to make even the toughest breeder question their decisions.

Understanding the Numbers of Breeding Doodle Puppies

Initial Costs Before Breeding

We often receive inquiries regarding the pricing of puppies. The range of prices set by breeders can be quite extensive, spanning from $500 to $10,000. Yes, we have paid 10K for some of our dogs! The discrepancy in pricing is attributed to the varying standards in puppy care maintained by different breeders. Some breeders adhere to the basics, while others surpass expectations by investing in premium bloodlines, rigorous health screenings, extensive socialization, initial training, and additional amenities. To provide insight, here is an approximate breakdown of the fundamental expenses associated with running a reputable breeding program. It's important to note that these costs may fluctuate based on location, influenced by variations in veterinary services and supplies.

• Cost of a Breeding Dog: Most breeders source their breeding dogs from breeders who conduct health testing on their adults, making the cost of a breeding dog higher. A breeder pays for the puppy price plus a breeding fee. Prices for puppies from health-tested parents with breeding rights can range from $3,000 to $15,000.

• Cost of Feeding per Year: The average cost of high-quality food is $80 per bag plus taxes. Assuming one bag per month, that’s around $960 per year in food costs. Adding $200 per year for vitamin supplements, the total yearly cost is approximately $1,160.

• Vet Care Per Year: This includes vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick prevention. If no additional treatments are needed, such as for ear infections or injuries, the cost is approximately $400 per year, but it can be higher.

• Health Testing: Health testing varies by breed. For Hip and Elbow Testing and breed-specific DNA tests, expect to pay around $1,000. Adding tests for eyes, patellas, and other blood panels can increase this to upwards of $2,000.

Adding these expenses, the total cost for a breeding dog before even breeding can range from $7,200 to $20,200. Let’s assume an average of $12,000, though costs can be higher.

Costs of Raising a Litter:

An average litter at Stokeshire Designer Doodles is 8 puppies, so we’ll base these calculations on that number.

Breeding Miscellaneous Costs:

• State License Fee: $500-1000 a year

• Progesterone Testing: $120 to $600

• Brucellosis Testing: $150

• Ultrasound: $100

• X-ray: $120

• Stud Fee: $2,000 to $6,000

Supplies Needed Before Breeding:

• Whelping Bed: $650 (usable for several litters)

• Kuranda Bed: $160 (reusable for several litters)

• Towels, Blankets, and Whelping Pads: $100 (usable for a couple of litters)

• Toys and Treats: $200 (usable for a couple of litters)

• Whelping Supplies: $200 (new for each litter)

Training Supplies:

• Crates for Crate Training: $500 (usable for several litters)

• Litter Boxes: $100 (usable for a couple of litters)

Costs When Puppies Arrive:

• Dewormer: $160

• Food: $420

• Milk Replacer: $100

• Pellets for Litter Box: $240

• Health Exam: $400

• Vaccinations: $380

• Vitamins: $80

• Heartworm, Flea, and Tick Preventative: $200

• Laundry Soap, Cleaners, Disinfectants, Paper Towels: $100

• Puppy Packages (harness, leash, a small bag of food, toys, etc.): $200

Total estimated Litter Cost average: $15,000.

Assuming smooth operations without additional expenses like C-sections ($1,500-$3,000), injuries ($200-$1,000), or supplements ($100-$300 per puppy), the estimated cost to raise one litter, inclusive of expenses for both the Dam and Sire, ranges from $15,000 to $20,000. For a litter of 5 puppies, each would ideally be priced at approximately $3,000 to $4,000 to break even.

When the dam has 4 litters and retires by age 4, costs per litter decrease as expenses such as the female's initial purchase and some supplies no longer apply. Additional costs per litter average around $8,000, with additional expenses for food, vitamins, and ongoing vet care for the parents totaling about $8,500 over two years. This equates to roughly $1,873 per puppy, assuming no complications.

It's important to note potential unforeseen costs, including dental cleanings ($300+), treatment for ear infections ($50), and extensive vet care, which could amount to thousands of dollars. Unexpected outcomes such as a female or male failing health tests or facing infertility can lead to losses of at least $2,500 beyond initial expenses, often exceeding this amount.

Experienced breeders might reduce expenses by retaining puppies for their own programs, but ongoing costs for treats, toys, bedding, and additional veterinary needs can escalate over time.

Additional Cost of Marketing Your Breeding Program

Marketing a breeding program involves essential investments in professional photography, content creation, and social media management. Expect costs for hiring photographers and videographers, creating engaging content, and maintaining an active online presence. These expenses ensure the effective promotion of your breeding ethics, showcasing the care, health testing, and socialization standards upheld in your program. Invest wisely in marketing to attract responsible pet owners and uphold the reputation of ethical breeding practices.

Creating engaging content for social media platforms, website updates, and email newsletters requires consistent effort. This includes writing posts, taking and editing photos, and producing videos that highlight the breeding program's standards and values.

1. Social Media Management: Managing social media accounts involves daily interaction, responding to comments and messages, and maintaining a consistent posting schedule to keep followers engaged.

2. Photography and Videography: Hiring professionals for high-quality photography and video creation to showcase puppies, parent dogs, and facilities can require dedicated time for planning, shooting, and editing.

3. Marketing Strategy: Developing and refining a marketing strategy tailored to reach potential puppy owners involves ongoing research, planning campaigns, and analyzing results to optimize effectiveness.

4. Communication with Potential Buyers: Responding promptly to inquiries, providing information about available puppies, and nurturing relationships with potential buyers through personalized communication are essential for building trust and credibility.

5. Networking and Community Engagement: Participating in dog breeding forums, attending events, and collaborating with local pet communities to promote ethical breeding practices and gain visibility.

By dedicating approximately 10-15 hours per week to marketing strategies in 2024, breeders can effectively showcase their ethical practices, attract responsible pet owners, and ensure the ongoing success and reputation of their breeding programs. At an estimated rate of $20 per hour, this investment equates to a monthly value of $800 to $1,200 in time spent on content creation, social media management, photography, videography, and communication with potential buyers. This proactive approach not only enhances visibility but also fosters trust among prospective owners, ultimately supporting the ethical and sustainable growth of the breeder's program.

Given the hourly rate of $400 for a photographer or videographer, and the need to have puppies photographed professionally 4 times over 8 weeks, here's the breakdown:

Photography/Videography Cost:

• Hourly rate: $400

• Number of sessions: 4

• Total hours: 4 sessions * 1 hour/session = 4 hours

Total Cost:

• Total hours * Hourly rate = 4 hours * $400/hour = $1600

sale

STOKESHIRE PRESETS for Breeders

Sale Price:$0.00 Original Price:$34.00

Therefore, breeders can expect to invest approximately $1600 in professional photography or videography sessions for their puppies over 8 weeks. This expense contributes significantly to showcasing the puppies and maintaining a high standard of presentation for potential buyers. Of course, this is optional.

At Stokeshire, our model emphasizes securing buyers for our puppies even before they are born through strategic paid advertising campaigns on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google. By partnering with expert agencies in digital marketing, we ensure proactive outreach to potential owners who align with our ethical breeding standards. This approach allows us to maintain our commitment to responsible breeding practices while connecting with prospective buyers who value the care and integrity integral to every Stokeshire puppy's upbringing.

Time and Effort Involved:

Raising puppies is a significant time and effort commitment. During the first two weeks, we closely monitor the puppies to prevent issues such as being laid on or injuries. Our tasks include assisting with deliveries, weighing the puppies daily, and performing early neurological stimulation. As they grow, we weigh them weekly, conduct photoshoots, clean their area multiple times a day, disinfect daily, and extensively socialize them. This process takes approximately 230 hours per litter.

Week 1-2: Early Care and Monitoring

• Hours: Approximately 40-50 hours

• Activities: Initial care for the dam and puppies, ensuring health checks, monitoring for any issues, and beginning socialization.

1. Week 3-4: Growth and Development

   • Hours: Approximately 40-50 hours

   • Activities: Continued monitoring of growth milestones, increasing interaction and socialization, and introducing solid food.

2. Week 5-6: Socialization and Basic Training

   • Hours: Approximately 40-50 hours

   • Activities: Intensive socialization with humans and other pets, basic training (e.g., potty training), health checks, and vaccinations.

3. Week 7-8: Final Preparations for Adoption

   • Hours: Approximately 40-50 hours

   • Activities: Final health assessments and vaccinations, preparation for adoption (e.g., advertising, screening potential owners), ensuring puppies are ready for transition to their new homes.

Time Spent Communicating:

• Additional 50 hours per litter dedicated to communicating with families.

1. Cost Calculation:

   • Rate: $20 per hour

   • Total cost for communication per litter: 50 hours * $20/hour = $1,000

2. Total Cost Adjustment:

   • Previous estimated costs per litter (excluding communication): Approximately $15,000 to $20,000

   • Additional communication cost: $1,000

   Total estimated cost per litter (including communication):

   • Low end: $15,000 + $1,000 = $16,000

   • High end: $20,000 + $1,000 = $21,000

This adjustment reflects the total estimated costs per litter, considering the additional time and cost involved in communicating with families at a rate of $20 per hour.

Grooming Costs:

If you have 4 pairs of breeding dogs and each pair requires grooming 4 times a year at $200 per grooming session, here's the breakdown for a year:

Total grooming sessions per year per dog: 4 sessions Total number of dogs (4 pairs): 8 dogs

Total grooming sessions per year: 4 sessions/dog * 8 dogs = 32 grooming sessions

Cost per grooming session: $200

Total grooming cost for the year: 32 grooming sessions * $200/session = $6,400

Therefore, for 4 pairs of breeding dogs, grooming costs would amount to $6,400 per year if each dog is groomed 4 times annually at $200 per session.

In addition to regular grooming, bathing puppies before each photoshoot is crucial to ensure they look their best for potential buyers. Depending on the number of puppies and the time required, breeders often hire professional groomers to handle this task efficiently. The cost of professional bathing services can vary, typically ranging from $50 to $100 per session per puppy, depending on the groomer's rates and the number of puppies being bathed. This additional investment ensures that each photoshoot captures the puppies in their cleanest and most adorable state, enhancing their appeal to prospective owners.

Cost of State Licensed Whelping & training Areas

Establishing and maintaining a state-licensed facility for breeding dogs involves various costs and considerations. Licensing fees and regulatory requirements can vary significantly by location, but typically range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars annually, depending on the state and local regulations. For breeders aiming to build a professional facility, such as a 6000 square foot state-of-the-art center in Wisconsin, costs can escalate substantially. Expenses may include construction costs, permits, zoning requirements, and ongoing maintenance. While the initial investment can be significant, a well-equipped facility not only enhances the breeding environment but also underscores a commitment to ethical practices and the well-being of the dogs.

The Cost of Professionalism

Establishing a robust business structure is crucial for breeders looking to operate efficiently and compliantly. Setting up an LLC in your state provides legal protection and separates personal assets from business liabilities, offering peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. Hiring an accountant is essential for managing finances, tracking expenses, and maximizing tax deductions specific to breeding operations. Utilizing software like QuickBooks streamlines financial management, enabling breeders to track income, expenses, and inventory seamlessly. Understanding and fulfilling sales tax obligations is also paramount, ensuring compliance with state regulations and avoiding penalties. These foundational steps not only streamline operations but also uphold professionalism and financial transparency in running a breeding business.

Establishing and maintaining an LLC typically involves several costs:

1. LLC Formation: This can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the state and whether you use an online service or hire a lawyer.

2. Accountant Fees: Accountants may charge between $100 to $300 per hour for services like tax preparation, financial consulting, and bookkeeping. Annual fees can vary widely based on the complexity of your business and the services required.

3. QuickBooks or Accounting Software: QuickBooks subscriptions start around $25 per month for basic plans and can go up to $150 per month for more advanced features, depending on the number of users and business needs.

4. Sales Tax Compliance: Costs can include filing fees, software subscriptions for sales tax calculations and filings, and potential penalties for non-compliance. These costs vary based on the volume of sales and state requirements.

5. Other Miscellaneous Costs: These may include state annual report fees (typically $50 to $100), legal consultations for compliance issues, and any additional software or tools needed for operational efficiency.

Overall, the annual cost for LLC formation, accountant fees, QuickBooks subscription, and sales tax compliance can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the scale and complexity of your breeding business and the specific services required.

The presence of backyard breeders, though often well-intentioned, can have significant implications for both the breeding industry and society at large. These breeders, often operating without the same standards and ethical considerations as professional breeders, may inadvertently contribute to issues such as overpopulation and genetic health problems within dog breeds. Their focus on producing puppies without rigorous health testing or proper care standards can undermine the efforts of responsible breeders who prioritize the well-being of their animals and the breed's long-term health. Moreover, the economic impact extends beyond the breeding community, affecting local economies through increased demand on animal shelters and veterinary services. By educating prospective breeders about the importance of responsible practices and ethical standards, we aim to promote a sustainable approach to dog breeding that benefits both animals and society as a whole.

The Cost of Building a Home for Dogs

Building a state-of-the-art facility for dogs, spanning 6000 square feet, involves significant planning and financial investment. In Wisconsin, where costs can vary, constructing such a facility typically requires budgeting for land acquisition, construction materials, labor, permits, and utilities. Depending on the location and specific design requirements, the estimated cost can range from $600,000 to $1.2 million or more. This investment is crucial for providing ample space and amenities that ensure the comfort, health, and safety of the dogs in our care at Stokeshire Designer Doodles.

The Ethical Dilemma

Overpopulation and Genetic Health Issues

One of the most pressing ethical concerns is overpopulation. Shelters are filled with dogs that need homes, and every new litter contributes to this issue. Additionally, breeding can exacerbate genetic health problems if not done responsibly. Reputable breeders must conduct thorough health testing to ensure they are not passing on hereditary conditions.

The welfare of the Parent Dogs

The well-being of the parent dogs is another critical consideration. Continuous breeding can take a toll on a dog’s health, and it’s essential to ensure that the animals are well cared for and not simply used as breeding machines. We will skip heat cycles based on recommendations from our vet. We realize that this impacts our clients and also our business, however, we prioritize the health of our breeding team over our bottom line.

Personal Reflection

In our experience, the joy of seeing a litter of puppies grow and find their forever homes is immense. However, the financial and emotional investment is equally significant. I have seen breeders who cut corners to save costs, resulting in unhealthy puppies and stressed-out parent dogs. On the other hand, reputable breeders who invest in health testing, quality care, and ethical practices often face financial losses but are rewarded with the satisfaction of doing things the right way!

Conclusion

Breeding dogs involves navigating a complex and costly journey that demands a thorough grasp of both financial commitments and ethical obligations. It extends beyond merely bringing puppies into the world; it requires safeguarding the well-being of the animals and contributing positively to the advancement of your mission. If breeding is on your mind, take the necessary time to fully comprehend these responsibilities and pledge to uphold ethical practices.

For those aspiring to breed or seeking to deepen their understanding of responsible practices, we invite you to connect with our team and engage with communities dedicated to prioritizing canine welfare. Your dedication can profoundly impact the lives of these remarkable animals. If you're considering starting your breeding program, we're eager to arrange a consultation with you.

Breeding puppies is a labor of love, albeit a challenging and often smelly one. Beyond the adorable appearances, there is the reality of late nights, constant cleanup duties, and substantial financial investments. Yet, for those ready to embrace the journey, the ultimate reward lies in nurturing a litter of joyful, healthy puppies—and collecting a few unforgettable tales along the way.

Considering venturing into breeding? Prepare yourself for the rewarding yet demanding adventure ahead. And if you seek expert guidance, our team at Stokeshire is here to support you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to reach out to us whenever you're ready!