Poodle Price Guide (Puppies & Adults) & Ownership Costs

The Poodle is an extremely versatile family companion animal, excelling at nearly any pursuit it applies itself to. A breed that carries itself with a regal air, the Poodle is a very intelligent and athletic dog. Available in three different sizes, the Toy, the Miniature, and the Standard, the Poodle is a deeply loving and affectionate family pet. Though the Poodle has high grooming requirements, they can be regularly clipped to keep their coat maintenance manageable.

If you think the Poodle is the perfect dog breed for you, read on to learn more about how much you can expect to pay for your new canine sidekick.

How Much is a Poodle Puppy? $1500-$10000

When you begin to research how much you can expect to pay for a Poodle puppy, you will find that there is a wide range of prices. If you decide to purchase your Poodle pup from a reputable breeder, chances are you may pay a higher up-front cost to acquire your new family friend. However, obtaining a puppy from a reputable breeder comes with many benefits that cannot be quantified in something as clinical as dollars and cents.

Dog breeding in the United States is largely unregulated, meaning that each breeder has the freedom to set their own puppy prices. Because there is no standardized pricing for puppies in America, this means that you will find a large disparity of prices from state to state and even from breeder to breeder.

Why is this so?

There are many factors that account for what a breeder feels is a fair puppy price.

When shopping for a Poodle puppy, it is important to keep in mind that the final price for your pup in no way indicates the quality of the animal. Excellent quality puppies are sometimes available for very low prices while some pups that fetch the highest prices may not be the best representatives of their breed.

Still; generally speaking, with puppies as with life, you often do get what you pay for. With this in mind, it is often wise to avoid what may seem like a bargain-priced puppy. There are few true bargains in life, and often, if the price of pup seems too good to be true, it likely is, and you should be wary of what problems may later befall you.

It is true that reputable breeders often charge more money for their puppies than shelters, rescues, backyard breeders, or those who choose to list their puppies for sale on online marketplaces. However, the price a breeder asks for their puppies reflects the investment they have made in their breed as well as in the parents and the litter from which you are obtaining your pup. Factors that may play a role in this final number are things like appropriate health testing for both of the parent dogs, stud fees for the sire’s service, pre- and post-natal care for the mother dog, and the expenses involved in whelping and raising a litter well.

Another consideration that plays a role in the purchase price of a puppy from a reputable breeder is the commitment to meeting the breed standard. To this end, reputable breeders strive to produce puppies that are in excellent health, possess the correct build for the breed, and have an appropriate temperament. These things are not just hallmarks of any specific breed, they are also important components of any dog destined to spend its life as a cherished family companion.

The 6th most popular dog breed in 2020 for the American Kennel Club, the Poodle is an excellent choice for families looking for a sweet-natured family pet or for those who wish to compete in conformation or performance sports. Sadly, when a breed becomes popular, some breeders will begin to breed more frequently to meet the demand or will greatly inflate their prices to capitalize on current market trends. Reputable breeders typically only increase their prices when their expenses rise significantly enough that they are losing substantial amounts of money with each litter they produce.

There is a lot of diversity in pricing for Poodles today, whether you purchase a Toy, Miniature, or a Standard.  You can obtain a pet puppy for as little as $800 or for as high as $10,000 or more. It is important to note that puppies sold as companion animals are typically less expensive than those whose futures will include the show ring or the whelping box.

However, there are many more expenses to consider than simply the initial purchase price of your Poodle. Other costs you will need to keep in mind for the future include veterinary care, vaccinations, training, grooming, food, toys, and much, much more.

How Much Does a Poodle Cost? $800-$10000+

The purchase of a Poodle puppy is most likely going to be higher than what you would pay for an adult, retired breeding or show dog, or a senior. However, Poodle puppies are typically quite affordable, particularly if your goals for your puppy are simply to be a well-loved family pet.

Sometimes, local shelters or rescues will have purebred Poodles and Poodle mixes available for adoption. By purchasing your Poodle pup, adult, or Poodle mix from a shelter, you will gain the benefits of obtaining a dog that is already fully vaccinated, and in some cases, housetrained as well. The adoption fees for Poodles found at shelters and rescues are typically much lower than what you would pay to obtain a purebred puppy.

Most states have breed specific rescues, and they can also be a great place to look for your next best canine pal.

Companion Poodle Puppies=$800-$10000

Though some breeders will sell their Poodle puppies for as little as $800, this is most often not the norm. The average purchase price for a Poodle puppy is $1500 but may rise as high as $10,000 or more. Pet quality pups are most often sold for a slightly lower price than their littermates whose futures may include the conformation ring or another breeder’s breeding program. However, this does not mean they are inferior to their littermates in any way.

Show Potential Poodle Puppies=$2000-$10000+

Some breeders will sell puppies that are between 8 and 16 weeks of age as show potential. Since it takes time for puppies to mature, a pup that appears to be show quality at a young age may not develop as expected, making the adult dog unsuitable for the activity the owner desires. As a result, some breeders will slightly discount the price of their show potential puppies as an acknowledgement that the new owner is taking a chance that the puppy may not mature as the breeder hopes they will.

Puppies that are sold as show potential most often come on a contract with terms. The contract stipulates what is to happen if the puppy is unable to fulfill the owner’s expectations for them. Most often, the puppy must be returned to the breeder for a replacement puppy or a refund.

Why do show potential puppies cost more than their companion littermates?

Each time a breeder’s puppies enter a show ring, it is not just the puppy that is being evaluated. The breeder’s breeding program is also coming under intense scrutiny. Since the breeder’s name is associated with the dog, there is some risk involved in selling one of their puppies to a show home. For this reason, show potential puppies are more expensive to purchase than their littermates who are sold as pets.

With a breed like Poodles, the breeder will also need to provide mentoring. Poodles are a very high maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, and this is especially true of keeping a Poodle in show coat. Your breeder will work in tandem with you to help you learn how to do the proper clips and will often connect you with handling classes, so you and your puppy can gain ring experience in a low pressure setting.

If you wish to purchase a Poodle puppy to show, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000, and in some cases, even more for this privilege.

Guaranteed Show Quality Poodles (Older Puppies and Young Adults)=$10000+

Because Poodles are well-liked and in high demand for the show ring, it can be very difficult to find someone that is willing to sell a guaranteed show quality dog. If you are able to purchase a dog of this caliber, you will likely be buying an older dog as the breeder needs time to ensure that the dog’s bite is correct, his testicles are descended (in a male dog), and that the dog does not possess any overt or disqualifying faults that could hamper your efforts in the show ring. All of this comes at a very high price. You can expect to pay $10,000 as a baseline starting point for a dog of this quality.

If a breeder is willing to take a chance on you by selling you a Poodle that is guaranteed to be show quality, they will likely require proof of your commitment to follow through on your promise to show the dog. In some cases, breeders will only part with dogs of this quality if you agree to co-owning the dog with them. Co-ownerships can be mutually beneficial arrangements; however, it is very important, if you choose to go this route, that both parties outline ahead of time what is expected and what happens if one or both parties are unable to deliver on their promises.

Retired Adult Poodles=$350-$1000

When a dog has fulfilled his role as a show or breeding dog, many breeders opt to place those dogs in loving pet homes. In some cases, these breeders will allow you to purchase the dog for the cost of a spay or neuter which is typically around $350 to $1000. In some cases, the breeder will sell the dog for the same cost as one of their pet puppies.

Rescue or Shelter Puppies and Adults=$50-$1000

Sometimes you will find a Poodle or a Poodle mix at a shelter or rescue that is available for adoption. Most often, you can expect to pay between $50-$750 for adult dogs. Puppies are most often available for $750-$1000.

Senior Poodles (8+)=$350-$500

Poodles enjoy a long, healthy life if properly cared for with the average life expectancy ranging from 12-15 years. Most vets consider 8 to be the age a dog becomes a senior; however, Poodles remain youthful throughout the majority of their lives, and an 8-year-old dog still has lots of living yet to do. Adopting a senior Poodle or Poodle mix is the perfect solution for many families since older dogs have lower energy levels and are already completely housetrained. The average price you will pay for a senior Poodle is $350 to $550.

Service Dogs=$2000 (plus $10,000 to $50,000 for training and certification)

Poodles are ideally suited to work as service dogs. Most often, it is the Standard Poodle that is selected for this line of work. However, not all Poodles have the temperament required for excelling in the service industry. Your breeder will need to very carefully assess each puppy in their litter, looking for the unique characteristics that qualify a pup for a future providing support to those in need.

Though these qualities are rare and special, most often, breeders charge the high end of their pet price for a dog of this caliber. At a minimum, you can expect to pay $2000 for a Poodle service dog prospect. However, buying the dog is just the beginning of this process. You will need to commit to several years of training to achieve the certification, something that will cost between $10,000 and $50,000.

Should I Get a Male or a Female Poodle?

Some people wonder whether or not a male or a female Poodle will be the best fit for their family. This is a good question as there are differences between the two genders that are well worth considering before committing to purchase a boy or a girl Poodle; whether a puppy or an adult dog.

Male Poodles bond very deeply with their families and often become attached to one member of the household in particular. They are very affectionate by nature and love nothing more than pleasing those they love most. However, male Poodles can be attention-seeking; often to the point of becoming demanding.

By comparison, female Poodles enjoy their independence, preferring to make decisions for themselves and enjoying their own company. Less physically demonstrative than males, female Poodles are not as openly affectionate. Females enjoy their own company and may be resistant to snuggling with you; however, unlike males who often select one family member as their favorite, female Poodles express equal love for every person in the household.

Female Poodles aren’t as interested in pleasing their owners, expressing a desire to chart their own course. Many female Poodles feel they are the boss of the household and will go to great lengths to ensure you know this.

Why Purchase a Purebred Poodle?

There are many reasons why purchasing a purebred Poodle from a reputable breeder is a good idea. Reputable breeders often provide health guarantees on their puppies, giving you assurance that the appropriate health testing has been done to ensure your pup does not fall prey to some of the common problems that can affect the breed. In addition to this, the purchase price of your Poodle puppy comes with important benefits that include such things as lifetime support, ethical breeding practices, and optimal conditions and investment in whelping and raising each puppy they produce.

Reputable breeders breed with their breed standard in mind. This standard acts as a sort of framework that outlines what the ideal Poodle should look and act like. By trying to reach for this standard, breeders are able to improve their lines, ensuring the puppies they produce have the correct structure and temperament required for their breed. This ensures the Poodle will not easily succumb to injury and is able to fulfill its intended function.

Unfortunately, all breeds are naturally prone to developing certain health conditions. Thankfully, there are pre-screening breeding tests available today that can evaluate a dog’s genetic material and physical health to determine suitability for use in a breeding program. These tests greatly reduce the chances of passing on heritable health problems to the offspring of any breeding pair.

The list of recommended tests for the Poodle can be found on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website. Another excellent resource for those considering purchasing a Poodle is the Poodle Club of America. A passing score on the health tests recommended for the Poodle gives a vote of confidence that that particular dog can safely be used for breeding. Once the testing is completed, many breeders opt to list their dogs’ results on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website, a public database.

Any Poodle puppy that is from a breeding between two AKC registered Poodles is eligible for registration with the American Kennel Club. Though registering your pup with AKC is not necessary, there are some benefits you can gain if you opt to do so.

One of the most popular programs AKC offers is called AKC Reunite. AKC Reunite carefully records and monitors all microchips, providing you with a tangible support should your dog ever become lost, missing, or stolen. AKC also offers discounts on products and services.

Does Location Make a Difference When It Comes to Price?

Location absolutely can make a difference when it comes to the price you will pay to purchase a Poodle puppy. Poodles are a very popular breed, meaning they can easily be found in any state within the US. However, there are some states where there are many more breeders from which you can choose, a fact that sometimes leads to lower prices in that particular region. In states where a Poodle puppy is harder to come by, you can expect your pup to come with a higher price tag as a result.

In addition to location, the cost of breeding, whelping, and raising a litter will also have an impact on what puppy prices are. Since many costs vary from state to state, it is impossible for any two breeders to charge the same price. Some fees like AKC registration are standardized, but others are driven by location, meaning a breeder in Tennessee may pay more for things like vaccinations, microchips, puppy food, veterinary care, health certificates, whelping expenses, and prenatal care than a breeder that lives in Michigan.

Poodle Price List by Location (US State)

Virginia	$1200-$2000
Pennsylvania	$1200-$3000
Michigan	$1800-$2800
New York	$2000-$2500
Ohio	$1500-$2800
Kentucky	$800-$2000
Indiana	$1500-$2500
West Virginia	$1500-$2000
Washington	$2800-$3500
California	$1000-$10000
Florida	$2000-$5500
Texas	$1500-$3000
Missouri	$2000-$3000
Georgia	$1800-$4500
North Carolina	$2000-$7000

Interesting Facts About Poodle Prices

Most expensive variations	Apricot
Rarest	Blue, red, apricot
Most popular color	Black
Most popular size	Miniature

Poodle Ownership Costs

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend per month for these items for a Poodle:

Dog food (kibble)	$150
Dog food (raw)	$150
Dog treats and chews	$50
Toys	$50
Grooming	$100-400
Vet	$0-$200
Health insurance	$50-$75

The price you pay for your Poodle puppy is only a small expense compared to the costs you will face throughout the life of your dog. Since Poodles live from 12 to 15 years, you will have many years of fun, and many bills to pay, in your future.

Here is an approximate breakdown of what you can expect to pay for your dog:

Puppy supplies=$650+

Puppy supplies is a term that refers to such items as training treats, a leash and collar, a crate, pee pads, and toys.

Puppy vaccinations=$250

The two sets of vaccinations remaining in your pup’s puppy series plus an additional two dewormings will cost you approximately $250.

Puppy training=$100-$600+

Puppy socialization and manners classes range in price from $25 to $100 per class and are taught in blocks of 4-6 weeks.

Ongoing adult training/dog sports=$500-$2500+

From dog performance sports to conformation, scent work, tracking, and more, the sky’s the limit when it comes to fun things to do with your dog. As an average, you will pay from $500-$2500+ per year for additional training and/or participation in dog sports.

Veterinary fees=$100-200+ annually

An annual health exam is a must for every dog. This number should be increased to twice yearly during the senior years.

Because accidents and illnesses can occur, it is wise to budget an additional $3000-$5000 for emergency vet care.

Insurance=$50-$75 per month

The average pet insurance policy costs approximately $50-$75 per month. Over a lifespan of 15 years, that total comes to $13,500. Bear in mind that your premiums may increase as your dog ages. Also, most insurance plans also have deductibles which must first be satisfied before you receive any refunds for monies paid out for veterinary care.

Food=$150+ per month

A dog food suited to the needs of the Poodle will cost between $100-$150 each month.

Grooming=$100-$400

Poodles have exceptionally high grooming requirements. It is recommended that you take your Poodle to see a professional groomer once every 3-6 weeks to keep the coat in good condition. These appointments will cost you a minimum of $100-$400 per month. If you opt to purchase a show puppy, you will spend substantially more than this and will also need to provide a great deal of maintenance work at home each week.

What to Know Before Buying a Poodle

Loving, smart, and full of spirit, the Poodle is a beloved family companion and versatile dog that excels at any active pursuit. A breed that carries itself with an arrogant air, the Poodle is not a snobby dog but is instead comical, playful, and lots of fun. Equipped with an intense desire to please, the Poodle loves to learn new skills, particularly if it means spending extra time with you.

Poodles require regularly daily exercise to remain physically and mentally content. If given sufficient activity each day, the Poodle can live quite happily in an apartment setting. Though some owners feel that Toy and Miniature Poodles are higher on the energy spectrum, there is some division on this matter with others feeling the Standard is the dog with energy to spare.

The Poodle will act as guardian of its home and hearth and will alert bark at the presence of strangers. Though loving to its family members, the Poodle can be aloof with new people, taking time to learn to learn to trust them.

A breed that sheds only minimally, the Poodle is a great choice for families with allergies. However, the Poodle has exceptionally high grooming requirements.

The Poodle’s coat is as versatile as its skill set is. It can be clipped into many different attractive styles. However, if you plan to show your dog, you will need to stick to the four accepted clips for the show ring.

Your Poodle will need to be groomed every three to six weeks to keep the coat looking good. This is most often done by a professional groomer. But even with regular grooming appointments, you will still need to provide maintenance care at home that includes such things as brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and teeth cleaning.

Some Poodles are prone to tear staining around the eyes, a problem that is particularly challenging if your dog’s coat is quite light. You can help to reduce the staining by cleaning the areas each day and keeping them dry.

The Poodle is a very social animal, getting along well with children. However, it is important that all interactions between your Poodle and your kids be properly supervised to prevent accidents from occurring.

The final thing to keep in mind before committing to purchase a Poodle is the health issues that can befall the breed.

Among the health problems that can plague the Poodle are:

• Addison’s Disease
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
• Cushing’s Disease
• Epilepsy
• Hip Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Legg-Perthes Disease
• Patellar Luxation
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
• Sebaceous Adenitis
• Von Willebrand’s Disease

Summary

Certain the Poodle is the breed for you? Whether you choose to purchase your dog from a reputable breeder, a rescue, or shelter, it’s important to note that prices can vary quite widely. As an average, you can expect to pay $1500-$10,000+ for a puppy and $50 to $1000 for a rescue.