Yes, that's true. And I did learn so much in each phone call. Maybe its a manners thing too? Bad phone skills doesn't necessarily = cruddy puppy owner. But reading some of the responses... I just can't imagine why people would expect buyers to not ask. Isn't that irresponsible of a buyer too?
There is so much Breeder Hate out there amongst the majority of the public, it's really bad (I'm sure most of you don't need me to tell you) and ALL are lumped together that I'd hate to see it get worse for the reputable ones just because many aren't willing to talk to prospectives.
Of course price will be asked. When you get a phone call or email and the 1st and only question is HOW MUCH DO YA GET is poor manners. It shows cost is the main concern.
It's not the question, it's when, what questions are asked and how. When and what else is asked just to set the record straight. If price is the only concern, it's not someone I or breeder friends want to work with.
Some inquiring minds dig their own graves with breeders and do it repeatedly once we compare stories. The concern is, will this person be able to afford vet care, good food, proper toys and those little extras that make a dog's life more fun and healthy.
Yes, exactly. One thing I ask folks on my website is to tell me a little about themselves, their families, lifestyle, and what they want/expect in a pup. I'm surprised that with that already on the table, anyone w/ manners would still turn the conversation to price immediately. If price is part of the equation, then they can still state it as part of what they expect. Respect goes both ways, because I'm also offering to help find them the appropriate litter if my breeding doesn't fit their needs. I did this just about a week ago, and the guy was blown away that I helped find him a well bred pup that was priced ~$300 less than my own. Said he felt like he was "taking money out of my pocket". Nope, just doing what I said I would do. We're not all bad people.
Here is the issue on a cold call. Neither party knows one another. Why waste your time and mine when the price could be out of my range.
here is what I suggest to any breeder. Tell the customer up front your dogs are not cheap and why. It would take a minute to do that.
I am the type that would pay twice what you are asking if I knew it was a quality pup with minimal health issues to be faced with.
Better breeders have waiting lists or are referred by satisfied customers. Most go in knowing their family or friends paid your asking price.
I suspect those thinking it rude would also not like going to the Car dealer and have no starting price to start negotiations. Maybe some of you are like car dealers and wait to see if I am a Doctor or Lawyer with deep pockets and charge accordingly to income.
If you guys go over to the RTF forum in their classified pups are priced very clearly. Many charge way more then Show Breeders.
Nothing wrong with someone asking how much my puppies cost. They want to be sure that they can afford one and it never offends me when that question is brought up........beginning, middle or end. If it's not the right price for them or if I feel they're not the right family for my puppies, we all move on. No hurt feelings.
I find it entertaining that the only people that cry 'waaaaa-waaaaa" about price is the ones you can't get the top price or have a hard time selling their pups. Stop calling people who are good business people "puppy mills" just because they make a profit. Truth is, it goes right back into showing and their dogs. If I did not make a profit, I would not be able to show my dogs or take proper care of them.
Very well said.....
I have more of a problem with an email that says "do you have any pups and how much are they?"
A phone call that starts off with price question is not as annoying.
I tend to tell the caller what the price range is in this area for a well bred Labrador where both parents of the litter have all health clearances and ask that caller if that is within their price range.
If they say yes than I go on to talk about my dogs and my clearances and ask them questions and answer their questions.
Then I tell them my price.
To the poster that feels this is a business...... no way ..... its a hobby and if for any reason I am turned off by someone, not matter how much money they have, I will not sell them a pup.
These are my babies that I have whelped, raised and loved and lost sleep over, they don't go to just anyone.
It could be as simple as they have a one year old child and ready to deliver another in the next few months and want an 8 week old pup.
I don't think so..... but I do explain why I will not sell them a pup....
I also always take the time to educate. If someone says they were expecting to pay 500-800 for a Lab pup I explain what they will get for that price and the issues they could be dealing with for the life of the dog.
I have clients tell me all the time that they get a dog from me because I politely answer their questions, don't belittle them, and am friendly. I'll just say, the way I hear most breeders talk on the phone to potential clients…no WONDER they can't sell their pups!!! Or have to sell at a discount.