Responsible breeders priced out, says Puppies.co.uk

Puppies.co.uk has said that responsible breeders are being priced out of the market with some breeders reporting that local council licensing fees have risen by up to 25%.

A survey from the company has found that breeding costs now range from £3,000 to over £12,000 per litter.

Some of the largest expenses include stud fees of between£150–£4,000, depending on pedigree and desirable traits and veterinary costs of £150–£700 per litter for health checks, vaccinations, and worming.

There is also the cost of microchipping at £20–£50 per puppy, a legal requirement and breeder licensing and compliance which can cost £180–£450 per year, with additional inspections costing up to £2,000.

The company stated that beyond these known costs, many breeders underestimate hidden expenses such as time off work, increased utility bills, and transportation costs for frequent vet visits.

As a result, Puppies.co.uk is urging local councils, vets and pet food companies to take action to safeguard the future of responsible dog breeding.

A spokesperson for the company said: “Some breeders have reported to us that local council licensing fees have risen by up to 25%, adding further strain to those already facing significant challenges. We urge local councils to minimise the impact of these increases to ensure that ethical breeders can continue their important work without being priced out.”

“The high costs and unpredictability of dog breeding make responsible practices more important than ever. Ethical breeders go to great lengths to ensure their dogs receive proper health checks and care and, in some cases, at considerable personal expense.”

They added: “Prospective dog owners need to understand that responsible breeding isn’t just about cost—it’s about ensuring puppies have the best possible start in life. When looking for a puppy, always choose a breeder who invests in health testing, careful breeding for temperament, proper care, and the correct licensing compliance if necessary.”