The short answer
In 2025–26 listings, puppies from health-testing breeders commonly ask about $2,000–$5,000, popular doodle crosses often more, and rescue adoption fees usually run a few hundred dollars. Price alone says little about quality; what's included, and what can be verified, matters more.
Typical price ranges
Asking prices vary by breed, province and demand. These ranges reflect common listings and should be checked locally.
- Purebred from a breeder who health-tests parents: about $2,000–$5,000
- Doodles and other designer crosses: often $3,000–$6,000
- Rescue or shelter adoption: usually $250–$800, often including spay/neuter, vaccines and a microchip
What a fair price should include
- Vet exam and first vaccines, with records
- Deworming schedule
- Microchip, registered to you
- Parent health-test results you can look up (OFA and DNA panels)
- A written contract with a health guarantee and take-back clause
- Registration papers if the dog is sold as purebred (Animal Pedigree Act)
Warning signs on price
A price far below others for the same breed in your province is one of the strongest predictors of a scam. A very high price is not proof of quality either. Ask what you're paying for.
Frequently asked questions
Why are doodles so expensive?
Demand is high and good breeders health-test both parent breeds. High prices also attract unethical breeders, so ask for the test results either way.
Is a cheaper puppy always a scam?
No, but a price far below the local range, combined with pressure to pay by e-transfer, is a classic scam pattern.
Sources
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