When people first hear that a Sheltie puppy costs $2,500 to $3,500, the most common reaction is, “Wait, why so much?”

If you’re buying from an ethical breeder who is committed to the health, temperament, and long-term well-being of the breed, you’re not just paying for a puppy. You’re investing in responsible breeding, early development, and a lifetime of breeder support. Here’s what it really takes to raise a purebred Shetland Sheepdog ethically, from planning the litter to sending puppies to their forever homes at 10 weeks old.

First and Foremost – What Does “Ethically Raised” Really Mean?

• Health-tested, titled, or proven parents

• Home-raised, not kennel-raised

• Early socialization, enrichment, and temperament evaluation

• Proper veterinary care

• Contracts with return and support clauses

• Lifetime breeder support

The Real Costs: From Planning to Pickup

Not all puppies are raised the same way. Here’s what sets an ethical breeder apart:

This means a lot of planning, expenses, and commitment happens before the puppies are even born.

1. Breeding Preparation

• Genetic and health testing (hips, CERF Eyes, CEA, MDR1, vWD, DM, DMS, PRA, PRA BBS-2): $800–$1,200
• Stud fee and travel/semen shipping: $800–$1,500
• Progesterone testing, AI or natural breeding expenses: $250–600

2. Pregnancy & Whelping

• Vet consultations, pre-vaccines & ultrasounds: $300–600
• Supplements & high-quality food for pregnant dam: $200–400
• Whelping supplies & setup (thermometer, scale, pads, box): $300–500
• Emergency vet reserve: $400–800

3. Raising Puppies (Birth to 10 Weeks)

• Puppy food, goat’s milk, weaning supplies: $200–400
• Vaccinations & microchipping (x5): $400–650
• Deworming (multiple rounds): $100
• Toys, sensory items, enrichment tools: $100–200
• Paperwork, contracts, registration, folders: $100–200
• Puppy take-home kits (collars, blanket, food, etc.): $50–100
• Labor (est. 200+ hours @ $10/hr): $2,000+ (below the minimum wage in most countries)

Total Estimated Cost

Total for 1 Litter (5 Puppies): $6,000 – $9,250 USD/CAD
Average Cost per Puppy: $1,200 – $1,850 USD/CAD

Keep in mind: this is not profit. It doesn’t include breeder overhead, failed breedings, show training, marketing, or post-placement support. Most ethical breeders don’t “make money” on puppies—they reinvest it into the next generation.

Hidden Costs Most Buyers Don’t See

• Failed litters, lost puppies, or infertility
• Vet bills for complications
• Showing and titling dogs to prove quality
• Travel for stud service or shows
• Lifetime rehoming responsibility if needed

Ethical breeding isn’t a business—it’s preservation work.

Why This Matters

You’re not buying “just a dog.” You’re supporting a breeder who prioritizes:

• Sound temperament
• Proven health lines
• Social development
• Breed integrity

The Sheltie you bring home will be healthier, more stable, and come with lifelong support.

So, the next time someone says, “$3,000 for a puppy?!” you can say:

“Yes—because this puppy was raised with health, heart, and integrity.”