GSD and money.

Hi all. I know this may sound naive or even dumb or ignorant, but why do GSD cost so much from a breeder? I live in the US and have come across prices anywhere from $1500 to $2500. I understand a lot goes into breeding the dogs, but I probably don't get it all. Please enlighten me! Thank you so much!

If you breed properly then first of all you have health tests to pay for to ensure the parents don't have any problems, then it costs money to rear a litter and look after the mother correctly. Buying a puppy cheaply is not a good idea because more than likely it will be from non health checked parents, so somewhere down the line you could end up with expensive vets bills, and also if the puppy has been poorly fed on cheap rubbish and not looked after properly, again high vets bills in the future.

Thank you for your post and NOT making me feel like an idiot!

You're not an idiot lots of people don't realise or know what goes on before the litter is even conceived, and once the litter is born then you are on 18 hour days, minimum, for 8 weeks, 7 days a week, it is so exhausting you sleep for a week when they have left for their new homes

You are not an idiot - an idiot would not have asked the question!

It is a valid question and don't ever be embarassed about asking questions.

Please do get a GSD they are lovely dogs

GSD's are prone to many health issues. Testing for hip and elbow dysplasia, finding a good certified pedigree with good temperament, joints etc. is hard to do so the cost of a puppy from parents like this sends the cost of the puppies up.

The more health problems a breed is prone to, usually the more costly the puppy. English Bulldogs, which often must be delivered by C-section, artificially bred, are prone to "swimmer puppy syndrome" etc. are often $3000 + per puppy.