Does anyone know the average price of a cocker in the USA? My parents, who live in the States, have started looking at getting one and the few breeders they have come across so far want $1500. I think they're a lot harder to come by, which might be reflective of the price, but it seems like a lot to me!
Sorry to hijack the thread...
English Cockers are harder to find in the US, but nearly all the breeders of them are well known and very respected so they can command the price based on the quality of their dogs. The cost of a puppy is also determined by the cost of health tests and the pedigree of the dog. Besides the usually tests, it's becoming more common in the US to test for hips, elbows, and patellas in Cockers, which I don't think is done very often in the UK. Most breeders in the US won't even think of breeding their dogs until they've gained their championships or are very close to. Many US English Cockers breeders also title their dogs in obedience, hunting, or tracking as they are very set on breeding for the "whole package". When a breeder has done all the required health tests and more, and are breeding from titled dogs with excellent pedigrees then you can expect a higher price. Most English Cocker puppies from respected US kennels go for $1200. In my search for an English Cocker puppy I never saw any pups for $1500 and I would grill the breeder about that price, though the price I listed is what is what one would expect for an East coast puppy. Price differences could vary by region.
That being said... there are a few "pet" breeders in the US who do ask for ridiculous prices. These breeders usually have recent imports from pet breeders in Europe as no reputable breeder in the US is willing to sell them a pet quality Cocker that they know will be bred from. These US pet breeders usually ask for far too low a price or far too high.
I believe the American buyer had to drive to Florida, because they specifically requested an undocked puppy. Breeders that breed for the US conformation ring will always dock the entire litter as it is difficult to see which puppy will make for a good show prospect at the young age that is required for docking.
If your parents are still looking I can message you and get you in contact with some breeders in the area they're looking in.