A PUPPY IS AN INVESTMENT

There is no doubt that Cavaliers are one of the more expensive breeds. They are the Mercedes of the dog world. However, when you amortize the price of the puppy over 10-15 years, during which time this dog will have given your family so much love and enjoyment, the cost is minimal. How can you place a dollar amount on a Cavalier’s many years of devotion to your family?

Veterinary care, training and owner supervision however will be the real financial burden over the years. It is for this reason that purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder is so important. Comparing value for price, the show breeders by far provide the best puppy for the money, provided they can furnish, in writing, proof of health testing on the Parents for genetically transmitted health problems. The high number of serious inherited defects seen in ALL dogs today makes this a pre-requisite before you purchase your puppy. You are paying a hefty sum of money for your puppy – at least get your money’s worth and buy the best puppy you can find from the most reputable breeder. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO BARGAIN HUNT!c

The price of puppies of all breeds keeps going up and up. The cost of living index varies throughout the USA and breeders will charge accordingly. In addition, breeding costs such as quality foods and veterinary care are ever-increasing, if they are to breed for top quality, healthy, well-tempered puppies. With some compromises on your part, there are ways of finding a wonderful companion Cavalier at a reasonable price.

Do not get caught in the “I just want a pet” as an excuse to purchase a puppy from someone other than a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders are trying to be sure that any Cavalier that they breed is a wonderful, well-adjusted, healthy companion – whether or not the puppy is destined for the show ring. Most litters do not have even one show-quality puppy so you can see that the vast majority of puppies are destined for life as a devoted companion. Do not short-change yourself into believing that “pets” are supposed to be inferior in expected quality of life to a dog that competes in conformation. If you decide to become involved in performance events such as obedience, agility, or rally, you want a pet that is physically and temperamentally capable of completing the tasks.