Help in NH

[Fishkeeper]

Hello everyone I just joined this site that I found on the web looking for a puppy. We are located in Northern NH. We put our dog down 4 years ago after she lived a wonderful life. Now we are looking for another puppy. We would love another black female. It has been a while but it seems the prices went up on dobies. We are looking for a family pet not a show dog, someone to go everywhere we go. Are there any breeders up in our area of NH? I paid $250.00 for Tasha 15 years ago. Now it seems all the prices are in the thousands or even high hundreds. Are there still puppies available in our price range? or should we expect to pay much more? Please help if you can, as we are looking for a puppy asap.Thanks so much

[tidibole]

My OPINION on your question is going to be highly controversial. Yes there are puppies that sell for less than $250.00. The puppy that I am babysitting (AKC reg'd) will have a more expensive crop than the actually sales price of the puppy. The parents were not health tested for anything. But the baby was current on all inoculations, had been properly cared for and fed a quality food. The parents had excellent temperments and were attractive dogs. The puppy itself is well adjusted and happy, no shyness and apparently acclimated to many different pets. and situations They were looking for a PET without the expense that you mention. Now you can talk about longevity, DCM, etc but there is never a guarantee. The decision is ultimately made by you and the comfort level that you attain with the breeder. I believe in health testing to some extent, however, it is not the end to all. I have a 13 year old girl who came from non health tested parents but in fall airness came from a very impressive pedigree. I also had a 10 yr old male from non health tested parents who died at almost 10 from DCM...dogs have to die of something! And at 10 I had many wonderful years with him. Again. I hope this helps and fully understand that I am in NO shape, form or way promoting unethical breeders but also feel that if you are looking for a pet and/or companion, the prices are available to fit your budget and the decision and research is ultimately up to you. Good luck..

[Dobs4ever]

Welcome to the hub. Sorry about your loss it is a hard thing to go through. Yes prices have gone up on everything and Dobermans are no different especially if you want all the bells and whistles - ears done, health tested and title parents, socialized, current on shots and worming from a breeder who cares about the breed not just selling puppies - all of this cost money.

But as mentioned it is still a personal decision and only you can know what fits your budget. I personally get many phone calls from people who do not go to reputable breeders and then have problems and find that the breeder is no help because they don't know anything - they just crank out puppies. After the expense of vet care for sick puppies sometimes the price of quality is cheaper in the long run.

I like to stack the deck in my favor which to me means making sure certain requirements are met to give me the best chance of a healthy, well adjusted, solid temperament dog. For me that mean looking for a breeder who both works, shows, trains and health test.

Good luck with your search. If you go to DPCA web site and research their breeder section you will find breeders in your area.

[tidibole]

You definately hit it on the nose...It is entirely dependent on what you want or feel you need and the expense that you can afford! I am also going to assume that many people who purchase PETS, truthfully are not concerned about pedigree or titles, again unfortunately, this is what keeps many breeders WHO SHOULD NOT breed in business! Even puppies from health tested parents, unfortunately, do not have a guarantee of longevity, althought the chances are substantially better. I definately would not recommend someone purchasing a puppy from a breeder who "cranks" out puppies. The individual that I mentioned had 1 litter, although not the most dobe SAVVY indivdual, made an honest attempt to do what was correct in at least providing excellent care for the puppies and the mama.

[tidibole]

Just wondering what the definition of CRANKING may be? Is it the show breeder who produces 2-3 litters a year from health tested title, shown stock? or is the person who has 1 litter from non health tested stock? or is it simply the so called PROFESSIONAL breeder who produces puppies to make the mortgage payment? without the benefit of breeder support etc. I think in all actuality like anything else you get what you pay for and sometimes may be extremely lucky! for the lower prices on puppies I think the average person would not expect breeder support and that may be why you get the calls you get. But then again, at least they have knowledge to contact someone that can and is willing to help.!!!! Breeding is a crap shoot, hopefully you stack the deck in YOUR favor!

[Dobs4ever]

Probably everyone would have their own definition -

I personally feel that anyone who works, trains, shows, health test and is a member of our breed club would not fall under this catagory as they obviously have some interest in the preservation of the breed, standard, health etc.

To me it is the person who just breeds but does none of the above - How can they care about the breed hence they just "crank" out puppies.

[tidibole]

I think I agree with your general train of thought but not necessarily your verbage. Crank means essentially to produce, with less respect. I do not think that it is out of line to suggest that there are breeders who follow all of your mandates and still can be considered to "crank"! Perhaps at one time have produced quality dogs and now are just producing on the lines that they have established! . What contribution does the breeder, who breeds 2 or more litters a year and sells all but one or maybe 2 on limited registration? Is that not just considered BREEDING? for what in mind? Is that not adding to the population as a whole ? even if the limited cannot as per AKC be registered (puppies) they certainly can be registered with less than reputable registries and yes CRANK out additional puppies!!! in just another registry with YES, the respected Kennel name attached!!!But honestly, I think we have by far gone beyond the intial question at hand and should perhaps keep this discussion for another thread.

[Fishkeeper]

Thanks for the replies.As mentioned there are many breeders out there who are in it for the $$( crank).There has to breeders out there who breed family pets non show dogs w/ or w/ out papers who take pride in there puppies .As many animals do get sick & get diseases & that isn't what any breeder can predict.We have over 1000 gallons of water(7 tanks ) in our fish tanks & we haven't lost 1 fish do to illness health problems in almost 5 years .Is that because we know what we are doing or could it be we just got healthy fish & kept them that way.Of course they can get sick but we treat them as we would any of our other animals lizard,turtles,cats .My buddy back in Mass purchased a female dobie for his male Jake to play w/.9 months old it was eating & dropped dead of something I for get what but she passed.You can never tell w/ any animal .We would just like a sweet family girl w/ a good temperment & not pay show quality prices ...

[tidibole]

Thanks for the replies.As mentioned there are many breeders out there who are in it for the $$( crank).There has to breeders out there who breed family pets non show dogs w/ or w/ out papers who take pride in there puppies .As many animals do get sick & get diseases & that isn't what any breeder can predict.We have over 1000 gallons of water(7 tanks ) in our fish tanks & we haven't lost 1 fish do to illness health problems in almost 5 years .Is that because we know what we are doing or could it be we just got healthy fish & kept them that way.Of course they can get sick but we treat them as we would any of our other animals lizard,turtles,cats .My buddy back in Mass purchased a female dobie for his male Jake to play w/.9 months old it was eating & dropped dead of something I for get what but she passed.You can never tell w/ any animal .We would just like a sweet family girl w/ a good temperment & not pay show quality prices ...HONESTLY, have you considered rescue? I had a rescue dobe for almost 7 years, died of bone cnacer ay age 9. Exceptional dog, became a CEFTIFIED Therapy dog! Good luck!!!

[Dobs4ever]

Regardless of what you decide to do PLEASE insist on AKC reg. It is not everything but hopefully you at least will not be encouraging a breeder who does not care one wit about the dogs or what kind of home they go to. Trust me if it is not at least AKC reg you can't be 100% sure it is pure Doberman.

[tidibole]

Regardless of what you decide to do PLEASE insist on AKC reg. It is not everything but hopefully you at least will not be encouraging a breeder who does not care one wit about the dogs or what kind of home they go to. Trust me if it is not at least AKC reg you can't be 100% sure it is pure Doberman.I really wish that having AKC paper would truly validate the pureness of the breed but unfortunately that is nothing to rely on. AKC is a registering organization and UNLESS complaints are filed and can be authenticted they will continue to register litters. I remember several years ago a breeder of WEIMS in Indiana, AKC, with MANY litters on the ground had their registration priviledges pulled due to breeding 4 colors of WEIMS, chocolate, black, blue and silver. After much investigating it was determined there indeed was a fox in the hen house. Registration does not guarantee "purebred", by unethical breeders it merely indicates that someone, if l has been able to pull the wool over of JQP eyes. I am sure that this probably does and possibly could happen in ALL breeds by unethical UNcaring breeders! I have seen lovely dogs with pedigrees to die for end up in hands that do nothing more than CRANK out puppies in inferior registries. some of wish have indeed been places on Limited by their original breeders but the cross registered to othe organizations who fail to recognize the importance of ethics. And I do mean that with the lack of respect intended! That is why it is so important that anyone purchasing ANY breed have an understanding of at least the basic standard and knowledge of the breed they are attempting to purchase.

[Dobs4ever]

Yes that is true to a point, HOWEVER, the vast majority are honest and breed honestly fortunatley. There are always a few who give everyone a black eye. BUT it is FAR better than unregistered or worse yet reg through one of those fly by night registeries, APR, APRI, CKC (continental kennel club) WKC, etc.

[tidibole]

Essentially, the bottom line, if someone is looking for a doberman, and has no intention of conformation and/or breeding, RESCUE is always a viable option. These dogs can be used in ANY venues with an ILP humber with the exception of, conformation. Not all come with the generally associated baggage, although that is a possibility but a legitimate rescue will inform the new owner of any potential issues. And so many are appreciative of good homes. this is a photo that I saw on a rescue sight and if it dosen't break yur heart than you are not a dog lover! I am sure when this dog was sold EVEN the the most unethical didn't have this outcome in mind!

[Fishkeeper]

That pic is just wrong.The owner of that dog should be prosicuted to the full extent.How can anyone do that to any dog.Pisses me off.We looked into adoption but it seems many of the dobies are mixed breeds or older than we want.We are not ready to deal w/ the death thing again in a few years .We are in our 40's & hope our next dog will live many many years w/ us .The problem w/ getting a dog w/ papers is that you are paying more just cause they have papers .We are not going to breed or show the dog just want a new baby to our family & she will be fixed.We found a breeder in Texas wants 350.00 for a pup then another 500.00 to ship thats almost a 1000.00 dollars .I can see paying that for champion blood lines in both parents & if we were to breed or show but that is not what we want to do.These so called crank breeders who just want the big $$ for there dogs cause they are dobies .We are willing to pay up to 500.00 for a pet dobie but would want to meet the parents & see how they all interact w/ strangers so getting a so called cheap puppy off the internet isn't worth getting to save $ as we could get one that just hates people lol.I found a breeder in Maine & we are waiting to hear from them & hoping to go look at the pups this week .Anyway wish us luck on getting the baby girl we want & as soon as we do we will post some pics .We all ready have names picked out but want to get her home then decide .Here are the 4 names we decided what do you all think??
Choice # 1 Sindra
Choice # 2 Athena
Choice # 3 Synda
Choice # 4 Xylia
Everyone ask where I get my names lol Past names of our rotties & dobies were Nemesis,Cyrus,Romulus,They are very strong names in the greek mythology world & these dogs definatley earned there names lol

[Dobs4ever]

Fishkeeper - I do understand your frustration. However, puppies from reputable breeders cost more for more reasons than just AKC papers. I do know of some less than stellar breeders who sell AKC reg for same price but then people should do their homework.

Most repuatable breeders provide lifetime support, take the dog back at any time, puppies are current on shots/worming, properly socialized, ears done and I microchip my puppies, health test, have a pedigree that can be traced to give you some info on any problems that might be in the line etc. So it is far more than just AKC papers. I hope this helps you understand a little better.

These things are not important to everyone. You have to decide what is important to you but you would certainly not want to be disappointed later.

Yes it is criminal the picture posted. It is meant to shock and create sympathy - I know Tidibole used to work in rescue so is familiar with how they work, but since rescues now charge quite a bit for the dogs, do not give papers or any background, and have adoption requirements that would qualify you for the FBI secret service it is a long drawn out process even if you qualify. Then time becomes an issue - how long can you expect honestly expect to have with the dog which is another factor to consider.

[tidibole]

I am so sorry that you feel that this picture was posted to "shock" and "evoke sympathy", it was meant for none of those but merely to enlighten those that perhaps are not aware of what happens to some dogs bred for whatever reason and sold to whomever...NO ONE is exempt from this if you are a breeder. And yes, I have been involved in rescue and I do know how SOME operate , however, reputable rescues that are generally breed specific, as you mentioned, make adoption a long process hence sympathy is not a ploy utilized. As I have mentioned I have had many a rescue and have been happy with them all! My only intention for this post was to allow people who are looking for JUST A PET to perhaps research and consider a rescue! Again please except my apology, if this indeed did offend you! As that certainly was not my intent, but as you had mentioned, we cannot stick our heads in the sand and pretend it dosen't exist! I also believe that this dog has been adopted and will probably never feel the pains he has had to endure and we all know there is never a guarantee for longevity. You are a devout pedigree researcher,I am sure that you can quote statistics even with the best bred dogs!!! It i probably necessary to also state that with current economy and hard times that many families are exoiereincing, some dobes, do have a background, are registered and have been family dogs surrenedered, sad but factual! Although I am an avocate of Reg papers it should also be known that any purebred doberman can acquire an ILP that can be utilized for any AKC activity with exception of the breed ring. they are fully vetted prior to plcament and HAVE BEEN temperment tested as too place the right dog in the right home. So in some instances with certain lifestyle, etc perhaps a rescue dobe is a GOOD fit!

[Dobs4ever]

I have not been personally involved in rescue other than the dogs I produce. I have received one back on rare occassion however, none that looked like the one posted. Good breeders screen prospective families and for the most part do a better job of placing them than those who are not involved in anything with the breed other than just breeding. I do know and do read the horror stories of dogs in rescue however. It is very sad and for those who want to save one of these dogs I consider them an angel and send them best wished and special gratitude. It is not for everyone, however but each has to decide.

[tidibole]

I suppose the point is simply, the dog was produced by SOME ONE and NO ONE can keep 100% track of each and every puppy they have ever produced. It should also be noted that someone whether the breeder or the owner, took the time to have the ears cropped and provide the aftercare. Things happen, circumstances change and I applaud you that your screening process has eliminated this obvious sadness.

[tnsteelerfan]

well I paid $1500 for Brody, my baby. He was tested for every possible health problem, was bred with the best temperment. Is absolutly an awesome dog. He came with ears and tail and dew claws done. i had looked at a "cheaper" pup from the paper but to be honest you dont know what situation these pups come from. The Breeders in the dpca is where I would check. Good luck.

[tidibole]

It amazes me how many "breeders" and I use the term lightly, advertise health tested without results or how many say the puppies are health tested? How could that be at 8 weeks? short of vWD, (although a potential issue, it is alsos the cheapest of all the tests, there are more definite problems in the breed that need to be rectified) is pretty tough!! Unless of course the puppy is clear through parentage and then the parent results should be posted. I think JQP, sees "health testing" and generally has no clue as to ask for results. It is unfortunate that in many other things, and now pets, the "buyer must Beware". or at least know what questions to ask to get the right answers. Unless you personally pick up a puppy, you can only take the WORD of the breeder unless a KNOWN entity as to the care testing (paqrents) and breeding of the puppy. EARS, oh well that is an etirely different bucket of worms. Most vets can cro pif they are willing too! BUT is it really a crop? or just TRIMMING of ears? big difference.., as I am finding out! I have a beautiful boy (in my eyes) LOL...the crop? oh well lets just say it could have been alot better! They stand but the bell is so big they had no alternative! A good crop generally costs no more than a bad crop!!! Cropping is an ART, a SCIENCE and SPECIALITY!!! The evidence of AKC registration certainly does not validate the breeder as CARING either in the breeding or placemnet the puppies but merely (worse scenario)that 2 AKC reg'd dogs were purchased and bred to produce an AKC reg'd litter. Quality is not guaranteed because of AKC registration! There is so much more involved

[Dobs4ever]

Yes it does amaze me the # of people who just ask if you health test but go no further. I give a complete packet with each puppy with copies of 5 Gen pedigree, copies of all health testing results, copies of all titles achieved and general info on how to care of the puppy. Good breeders do the best they can and work hard to make sure every puppy has a forever home. But as we all know stuff can happen.

As we have seen on this list - some people breed litters and think that a quck vet check means the dog has been health tested. Far Far from the truth and what is meant by health testing by good breeders.

The full blood panel and exam cost approximately $300.00, Vwd is $99.00 if you get a clinic, OFA is $65.00 for x Rays and $55.00 to send to OFA for the data base, Cardio echo $300.00 to $400.00 approx, Holter $150 if you find a clinic up to $350.00 and same for the holter test then $80 to have it read by a Dr. not a lab tech.

Remember to X's that by 2 for the sire and dam if you own both and do all of the above. Then you add the cost of doing ears and on my Eika litter it was over $3,000.00for 10 puppies. Quality shows in breeding.

I have not added in one penny for showing, training, traveling, membership dues to support the parent club in protecting our breed or the time volunteered to work for said clubs, or any of the other things that should be part of the equation.

So if you wonder why it makes me sick when some one comes on and advertises a litter of unreg (AKC I don't even consider the fly by night reg) puppies and then disappears now you know. They don't have a clue about quality or preservation of the breed.

[tidibole]

Yes it does amaze me the # of people who just ask if you health test but go no further. I give a complete packet with each puppy with copies of 5 Gen pedigree, copies of all health testing results, copies of all titles achieved and general info on how to care of the puppy. Good breeders do the best they can and work hard to make sure every puppy has a forever home. But as we all know stuff can happen.

As we have seen on this list - some people breed litters and think that a quck vet check means the dog has been health tested. Far Far from the truth and what is meant by health testing by good breeders.

The full blood panel and exam cost approximately $300.00, Vwd is $99.00 if you get a clinic, OFA is $65.00 for x Rays and $55.00 to send to OFA for the data base, Cardio echo $300.00 to $400.00 approx, Holter $150 if you find a clinic up to $350.00 and same for the holter test then $80 to have it read by a Dr. not a lab tech.

Remember to X's that by 2 for the sire and dam if you own both and do all of the above. Then you add the cost of doing ears and on my Eika litter it was over $3,000.00for 10 puppies. Quality shows in breeding.

I have not added in one penny for showing, training, traveling, membership dues to support the parent club in protecting our breed or the time volunteered to work for said clubs, or any of the other things that should be part of the equation.

So if you wonder why it makes me sick when some on comes on and advertises a litter of unreg (AKC I don't even consider the fly by night reg) puppies and then disappears now you know. They don't have a clue about quality or preservation of the breed.Absolutely, and I totally agree! My last litter of 10 (13 years ago) was $750.00 with beautiful ears, but then health testing really wasn't untilized to the extent that it is now. and yet she still is SOMEWHAT spry but I know the day is approaching! And truthfully you should not add for showing and memberships as that is what you choose and hopefully ENJOY!!

[tidibole]

Absolutely, and I totally agree! My last litter of 10 (13 years ago) was $750.00 with beautiful ears, but then health testing really wasn't untilized to the extent that it is now. and yet she still is SOMEWHAT spry but I know the day is approaching!Just wanted to mention those prices are determined by vet and area. My vet in my area
vWD was $75.00 as you know, through clinic, OFA was $135.00 inc OFA..Liver and Thyroid panel $40.00 with results...cardio I have not tested (but was offered for $35.00) ...I am sure that if you sought out a vet in the higher rent districts, your charges would be subtantially more!!!I suppose in all honesty, prices are subject to bargain shopping and quality! And yes Rhiannon, the photo is your little boy, the love of my life!!!! Sometimes that special dog comes around, and I have been lucky TWICE!!! ALSO I remember sometime ago, I placed a very nice WINNING X-racehorse, they weren't interested in the wins, BUT merely in having a "racehorese" in their pasture!

[Dobs4ever]

If your vet will order the kits for you and give them to you at a discount then you might get them cheaper. I do need to check and ask my vet what he would charge me for them. Good idea. I know they did one clinic last year for 75 but I have not seen it since. $99 is the standard price through a clinic. Prices will vary per area and vet. I certainly don't go to the high rent district - My vet is more than reasonable for today's prices and I certanly would not want just price to determine where I go. I want to know the vet knows what the heck he is doing.

I have heard that in California and Florida for ex one ear crop for one puppy can run $700 and upwards. All things are relevant - I shop for a good vet not his prices. I have seen to many vets mess up a dog - for example putting one on Thyroid that does not need it.

[tidibole]

If your vet will order the kits for you and give them to you at a discount then you might get them cheaper. I do need to check and ask my vet what he would charge me for them. Good idea. I know they did one clinic last year for 75 but I have not seen it since. $99 is the standard price through a clinic. Prices will vary per area and vet. I certainly don't go to the high rent district - My vet is more than reasonable for today's prices and I certanly would not want just price to determine where I go. I want to know the vet knows what the heck he is doing.

I have heard that in California and Florida for ex one ear crop for one puppy can run $700 and upwards. All things are relevant - I shop for a good vet not his prices. I have seen to many vets mess up a dog - for example putting one on Thyroid that does not need it.LOL...Surprise..I did contact a vet in St Charles Mo...He was WILLING to crop for $649.10 okeydokie the $.010 was for the syringe? PLEAZZZZZZ!!! I certainly hope the owner of that dog sought out a second opinion which is probably what most people should do in ANY given situation! but unfortunately to many become complacent with the advise of people, vets or not.

[Fishkeeper]

Guys you are going off topic here lol.I like reading it all but I just want a breeder in my are of NH for a pet pup.Anyone need ant carpentry work ? lol I'll work for a pup hahaha .We are still looking seems we will have to dish out the big $ for a pup .We wont settle for just any pup so we will just have to wait n see what comes along .We have preferances for a reason so I guess it's not meant to be right now .Hopefully we will come across a pup we are looking for & in our price range ..

[tidibole]

Guys you are going off topic here lol.I like reading it all but I just want a breeder in my are of NH for a pet pup.Anyone need ant carpentry work ? lol I'll work for a pup hahaha .We are still looking seems we will have to dish out the big $ for a pup .We wont settle for just any pup so we will just have to wait n see what comes along .We have preferances for a reason so I guess it's not meant to be right now .Hopefully we will come across a pup we are looking for & in our price range ..Not unusual nor unlikely to go off subject. You get what you pay for! But not all is aas it appears! You have to determine price outlay and then what you can get for that price. As mentioned, all is is a risk! Even the best bred dogs can and do have issues...so decide what you want, the price you can pay and be done with it. Take the chance!!! Seems you may have recieved as PM! so also appears you are looking for the best at the least price!! May not happen!!!Good luck...When you pay what YOU want to pay, you are taking chances. I have taken those chances and have been haqppy. But really don't expect EVERYTHING for NOTHING!!!

[tidibole]

If your vet will order the kits for you and give them to you at a discount then you might get them cheaper. I do need to check and ask my vet what he would charge me for them. Good idea. I know they did one clinic last year for 75 but I have not seen it since. $99 is the standard price through a clinic. Prices will vary per area and vet. I certainly don't go to the high rent district - My vet is more than reasonable for today's prices and I certanly would not want just price to determine where I go. I want to know the vet knows what the heck he is doing.

I have heard that in California and Florida for ex one ear crop for one puppy can run $700 and upwards. All things are relevant - I shop for a good vet not his prices. I have seen to many vets mess up a dog - for example putting one on Thyroid that does not need it.FAILED to mention, it is also possible to acquire vWD kits from other parts of the country offered in clinics by various breed clubs. I was very fortunate to get the last for $75.00and I hope you had an opportunity to use it.

[magtie]

try and keep the discussion on topic folks :)

[Dobs4ever]

Good luck with your search on a puppy. There are two good resources - DPCA Breeder referral and UDC breeder referral. You can do a web search and come up with the url.
Don't get discouraged itis worth the wait to find what you are looking for.

[tidibole]

try and keep the discussion on topic folks :)

Please forgive me for pursuing this issue, however, although perhaps thread has gone slightly off course, it is also imperative to validate the cost of a dog with longevity and health testing. Apparently this individual was not seeking to spend the amount of money that is necessary to procure a dog from the DPCA referral list, etc, It should be noted that things have substanially changed in the past 14 years. Illnesses that perhaps were not as evident or identifiable back then are in full testable existance now. A $250.00 dog now is just that a backyard bred dog with no testing and certainly no guarantee to temperment or health. I feel IF that is what a person chooses to do, then have at it, BUT be prepared for the consequences should they exist. And be aware of what they may be! It is doubtful that few people who are asking for the prices that NH wants are aware of what the issues are today. Times have changed, the econony has changed and YES there are far more breeders who shouldn't own a STUFFED dog that are breeding under the pretense of preserving the breed, quality, yada, yada, yada.and all the time jingling their pockets. I believe NH started the thread with anticipation of someone helping him find a dog in that price bracket, and perhaps, just a bit off center, nevertheless this thread was informative, not only to him but hopefully others who may be in a similar situation. I realize that this forum generally consists of the daily contributors and onlookers and then those that are anything but dobe savvy and this forum should educate without bitterness or criticism. If it can be accompolished under those conditions is it really that bad, going off the topic?? When it still has an educational value! This forum appears largely to involve questions, facts and opinions and with all that presented hopefully a comprehensive educated decision can be made.

[Big Dogs]

Well here it is in a nut shell fishkeeper. 1 When you buy a dog for 250 dollars you will have to get the ears done if you like that look. 2 Can you find one for 250 dollars yes but it won't be from a breeder unless it was a return or has issues which a reputable breeder will disclose. Will the dog for 250 dollars have health testing, nothing more than a vet visit maybe the tail cropped and wormed if your lucky. As far as health testing many are open for debate especially at such a young age. There are no guarantees except the one a breeder would give you in writing. As far as rescues there are many great dogs out there but take someone with you that is qualified to help you make that choice if you decide to go that route, there is nothing harder to fall in love with a dog than find out it has a problem you may not be able to deal with. So in retrospect I think the answer to your question is yes you can find a dog for 250 dollars but it will be from a back yard breeder and you are going to take more of a chance going that route than purchasing from a registered breeder. Good Luck in your search.

[tidibole]

All of the advice given is definately something to heed, however, I just feel I want to divuldge the other side of the coin. I purchased a dobe, AKC at 6 week from a local newapaper ad for $200.00, the had NO shots and I had to sign a hold harmless accepting this. I did. I had him cropped at 8 weeks, a professional show crop,(total cost thus far less than $350.00) he never gave a moments grief in the entire 10 years that he was my bed companion Nor did he have any health issues until that of which he died. He left me due to Cardio, in my arms at home. Could he have been in the conformation ring, it is possible, he certainly wasn't ugly and had some wonderful assets, was a he a good obedience dog, definately, was he an superb pet, you bet! I also adopted a 3 yr old Rescue dobe, lost him to bone cancer at just over 9. His total fee was a whooping $45.00 plus the cost of altering! Have seen many a lovely bred dog die at early age from various issues at a substantially higher investment. It is a crap shoot, however, you choose to look at it...Ultimately you have to be comfortable with the pet you are acquiring and also note that there is NEVER a guarantee on longevity REGARDLESS of all the health testing, it mearely stack the deck in your favor! I alos have a 13 1/2 yr old very well bred girl, parents had no health testing but yet she still cruises around jus as happily as one can imagine at her age! This is a phot of the boys inc the fawn who is still with me at 7 years! He was a whooping $80.00 without the crop, etc. and also wanted to mention, even after altering, he has beautiful rich thick coat! how many fawns can say that at his age?

[Fishkeeper]

Thanks everyone.I was saying I paid 250.00 15 years ago.I know prices have gone up & won't get another at that price .I just can't afford 1000-1500 for a pup.I am willing to pay up to 700.00 for a puppy just need to find one & we are still looking