How Much Does a Doberman Puppy Cost in the USA? A Simple Guide with Prices

The idea of ​​buying a Doberman puppy can be exciting for any pet lover, but there are many aspects to the process that must be taken into consideration. People often ask me how much a Doberman puppy costs, and to answer this question, I have compiled some information after spending the first year with my first Doberman and talking to various trusted Doberman breeders. In this article we will discuss in detail the average price of Doberman puppies, different types of breeders, first-year expenses, and the expenses that come with owning a Doberman.

Average Doberman Puppy Price

If you are thinking of buying your first Doberman puppy, you must first understand the cost. The price of Doberman puppies depends on the breeder, the quality of the puppy, the bloodline, and many other factors. The price of a Doberman puppy from a normal and trusted breeder can range from $1500 to $2500. Pet-quality Dobermans can cost around $1500, while show-quality Dobermans can cost around $2500.

If you are thinking of buying a European Doberman puppy, the price can be more than $3000. Also, Dobermans come in various colors, such as black, red, blue, brown, and white.

Here’s a summary

Category	Details	Cost Range
Average Puppy Price	The price varies depending on quality, breeder, and bloodline.	$1,500 – $2,500 (normal), $3,000+ (European)
Factors Affecting Price	Bloodline, breeder reputation, kennel certification, ear trimming, disease testing.	N/A
Types of Breeders	1. Puppy Mills: Low quality, inhumane conditions 2. Backyard Breeders: Unplanned breeding 3. Reliable Breeders: Health checks, show participation	Puppy Mills: $300 – $600, Backyard: $500 – $1,000, Reliable: $1,500 – $2,500
First-Year Expenses	Food, medical care, toys, crate, license, etc.	~$1,500 – $2,000
Monthly Expenses	Ongoing costs including food, health insurance, treats, toys	~$196
Additional Potential Expenses	DNA testing, training, pet insurance	DNA Testing: $200 – $300, Training: $65 (group), $150 (private), Insurance: $30 – $100/month
Conclusion	Owning a Doberman is rewarding but requires significant investment in time, care, and money.	N/A

Factors affecting the price of a puppy

The price of a puppy does not only depend on the breeder and bloodline, but many other factors also play a role in it.

• Bloodline – If the puppy is from a bloodline of a Doberman that has won awards in a competition or show, then the price may be higher.
• Breeder reputation – Some breeders are famous for their healthy and strong puppies. Buying puppies from such breeders may cost them more.
• Kennel Club Papers – If the puppy is a certified purebred and has been certified by a recognized kennel club, the price goes up.
• Ear Trimming – Dobermans ears are cropped between 7 and 12 weeks of age. Many breeders sell puppies with ears already cropped, which can increase the price.
• Disease Testing – If the puppy (or its parents) has been tested for common Doberman-related diseases such as von Willebrand’s Disease, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), the price may be higher.

Types of Breeders

When choosing breeders, it is extremely important to understand what is meant by a “reliable breeder.” There are three main types of breeders you can buy Doberman puppies from.

1. Puppy Mills

Puppy mills are the cheapest places to sell puppies. These are commercial establishments that breed dogs in excessive numbers and in inhumane conditions. Dogs purchased from puppy mills may have health problems, gene defects, and poor physical condition.

• Average Price: $300 to $600

2. Backyard Breeders (BYB)

Backyard breeders are people who are not professional breeders and often sell puppies as a result of unplanned pregnancies. They are not able to provide proper care and health testing to the dogs, and their quality may be questionable.

• Average Price: $500 to $1000

3. Reliable Doberman Breeders

Reliable breeders are those who are dedicated to the Doberman breed. These breeders often participate in dog shows, conduct medical checkups of the dogs, and keep thorough records. Doberman puppies are more expensive when purchased from them, but their quality is assured.

• Average Cost: $1500 to $2500

First Year Expenses of Owning a Doberman

After buying a Doberman puppy, there will be some initial expenses in the first year that you should take into consideration. Here are the major expenses that you may have to incur after bringing your puppy home:

1. Puppy Food – Doberman puppies need high-quality food. This can cost an average of $85 per month, i.e. around $878 in the first year.
2. Treats and Toys – Treats and toys are essential for puppies. Treats can cost around $20 and toys $80.
3. Dog Crate and Bed – Dog crate and bed are required to keep the dog safe and comfortable, which can cost around $105.
4. Medical Care – The first-time vet visit and initial vaccinations can cost a total of $170.
5. Dog license and other supplies – Dog license, garbage bags, and other necessary supplies like dog leashes etc. can cost up to $100.

Apart from these expenses, you will also have to undergo a physical examination, ear trimming, and other initial medical care.

Monthly Expenses of Owning a Doberman

After the first year, the cost of owning a Doberman decreases. The average monthly expense for an adult Doberman can be around $196, which includes food, treats, toys, health insurance, and other average expenses.

Additional Potential Expenses

There are some other potential expenses that you should take into consideration while owning a Doberman:

• DNA Testing – If you want to do gene testing for your Doberman, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $300.
• Training – If you want to train a Doberman, it can cost $65 for a group class and $150 per hour for private training.
• Pet Insurance – Pet insurance can cover medical expenses and can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 per month.

Conclusion

The experience of owning a Doberman puppy can not only be an exciting and inspiring journey, but it is also quite a responsibility. The Doberman is a wonderful breed, renowned for its loyalty, intelligence and devotion to protection towards its master. However, it is extremely important to understand the financial investment and care responsibility required to own a pet of this breed.

Apart from the price of the puppy in the first year, health care, vaccinations, training and other initial expenses can make the process expensive. However, in the long run, time with a Doberman is very fulfilling and full of love. When you give your puppy the right care and love, he can become an integral part of your family.

Keeping in mind that it is important to train Dobermans and maintain their physical and mental stimulation, you must ensure that there are enough time, energy and resources available for them. The Doberman breed requires an active and physically healthy life, making it clear that they should be viewed as a companion, not just a pet.

If you are looking to get a Doberman for cheap, adopting a puppy from a rescue center or humane society can be a great option. Not only can it be a great option, but it can give you a pet companion that you have given a second chance at life. Also, it can give you a fresh start, giving you a loyal companion for life.

Nevertheless, it is important that you fully understand the process and be fully prepared to meet your puppy’s health care and emotional needs. With the right Doberman puppy care, healthy lifestyle, and proper training, they can become a precious part of your family, filling your life with joy and security.

So, the cost and expense of a Doberman puppy is only the beginning. It is important to plan the time and energy required to give it the responsibilities, care and love that come with it. Every moment spent with a Doberman puppy will bring you satisfaction, happiness and support, making this investment the most loving and rewarding experience of your life.

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