Rhodesian Ridgebacks
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Rhodesian Ridgebacks
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A WORD ON THE PRICING OF PUPPIES
Here at HPK-Tropaco, we do everything "by the book." We have a kennel license, undergo regular inspection by the authorities, collect and remit sales tax on each puppy sold, and so on. In nearly every case, our breeding stock is proven, that is, they have been independently evaluated and judged worthy of contributing to the continuation of the breed, through earning their American Kennel Club conformation Championship. In California, where the competition is at its toughest and earning a championship may mean defeating literally a hundred other Ridgebacks of the same sex, it costs an average of $3,000 - $4,000 and up to complete a male Ridgeback's championship. It is even tougher (and more expensive) for the girls. Most of our males are dual champions, having not only their conformation championship, but also proving their ability to "do the job" through earning their Field Championships as well. Many of the girls have field titles as well. Regardless of how good a Ridgeback may look, health is just as important. That is why we do CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) testing with the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals for our breeding dogs. (For more information on CHIC, click here.) This testing totals approximately $1,000 for each dog. All of the foregoing, along with food (we feed the "raw" diet), veterinary care, stud fees, supplies and equipment, and a host of other things, are all factored into our prices. I now understand why, nearly 30 years ago, a respected breeder told me the truest thing I've ever heard about breeding dogs: "If you're making money, you're doing something wrong." There are certainly breeders out there who sell puppies for less. If a breeder has done all of the foregoing work showing, testing, taking good care of their dogs, etc., then their price reflects these expenses. An unscrupulous breeder who does not do these things can charge far less (or the same and get more profit). No matter who you buy a puppy from, you should ask about each and every one of these things. If you don't get a good answer, run away and find a better breeder. We have level pricing, that is, each show puppy is the same price, each ridged companion puppy is the same, as are each ridgeless when they pop up. Our current prices are as follows (sales tax included): Show Potential Puppies: $1,900.00 Companion Puppies: $1,700.00 Ridgeless Puppies: $ 950.00
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