White Dobermans are a rare and desirable color variation of the popular Doberman Pinscher breed. With their striking white coats, these dogs have an eye-catching appearance that many prospective owners find appealing. But along with their unique look comes a higher market price, which leads many interested in the breed to wonder – how much is a white Doberman worth?
The Rarity of White Dobermans
White Dobermans are considered rare because the white coat is the result of a genetic mutation. Both parents must carry the recessive gene for white coloring to produce white puppies. Because of this, only about 1 in 100 Doberman litters will produce a white pup. This scarcity means there is more limited availability compared to the traditional black, blue, red, and fawn Doberman colors.
In the past, white Dobermans were commonly euthanized at birth due to the belief they were albino and prone to health issues. While this is not true, as white Dobermans can have colored eyes and nose leather, the stigma led to even fewer white Dobies being bred. Nowadays, ethical breeders are working to carefully breed healthy white Dobermans, but it remains challenging to produce these uncommon dogs.
Purchase Price from a Breeder
Due to simple supply and demand economics, the rarity of white Dobermans allows breeders to charge more. On average, white Doberman puppies cost between $1,500 to $3,000. Show-quality dogs with exceptional pedigree can cost upwards of $5,000.
Here are some typical white Doberman puppy prices:
- Pet quality from a hobby breeder: $1,500 – $2,500
- Well-bred from a reputable breeder: $2,500 – $3,500
- Champion bloodline: $3,500+
- Show/breeding quality: $4,000+
This represents a premium of around $500 – $1,000 compared to prices for more common black, red, blue, and fawn Doberman pups.
Factors Impacting Cost
Several factors influence the final price of a white Doberman puppy:
Breeder Reputation and Location
Purchasing from an established, reputable breeder tends to be more expensive than buying from a hobby or backyard breeder. The breeder’s geographic location also plays a role.
Bloodline and Pedigree
A pup descended from champion show dogs or working dogs will garner a higher price. Pedigrees showing several generations of health testing add value.
Age
Younger white Doberman puppies usually cost less than older pups or young adults.
Coat Color Markings
Solid white Dobies are most desirable. Puppies with small cream or rust markings may cost a few hundred dollars less.
Conformation and Temperament
White Dobermans exhibiting good structure, movement, and temperament consistent with the breed standard warrant higher pricing.
Gender
Due to size considerations, male Dobermans often cost $200-$500 more than females.
Health Testing
Puppies from parents tested for common Doberman genetic diseases per the DPCA code of ethics have a higher price.
Training and Titles
Started or partially trained white Dobies and those with Canine Good Citizenship certifications or other titles can increase the asking price.
Price Comparison to Other Doberman Colors
To understand how much more expensive white Dobermans are, it’s helpful to look at the price differences compared to the other Doberman colors.
| Color | Avg Price Range |
|---|---|
| White | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
| Black | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Red | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Fawn | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Blue | $1,000 – $2,500 |
As you can see, white Dobermans typically cost $500 to $1,500 more than other color variations when purchased as puppies from a breeder.
Adoption Costs
While less common, adopting a white Doberman from a rescue organization or shelter is another possibility. Adoption fees are much lower, averaging $200-$400 for a white Doberman. The dog may be a bit older, such as 1-3 years rather than a young puppy.
The major advantage of adoption is the reduced cost. However, you often have less information on the dog’s background and pedigree. Health and temperament issues are more likely with rescue Dobes compared to those from reputable breeders.
Total Ownership Costs
It’s important to look beyond just the initial purchase or adoption cost of a white Doberman. Owning this large working breed comes with considerable yearly expenses for essentials like food, supplies, vet care, training, grooming and more.
Here is an overview of the estimated first-year and lifetime costs of owning a Doberman aside from the initial acquisition price:
| Expense | Annual Cost | Lifetime Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Food | $500 | $10,000 |
| Routine Vet Care | $500 | $5,000 |
| Emergencies/Illness | $500 | $10,000 |
| Grooming | $150 | $2,500 |
| Boarding/Dog Walkers | $500 | $5,000 |
| Toys/Treats/Misc Gear | $200 | $2,000 |
| Training | $100 | $1,000 |
| License Registration | $50 | $1,000 |
| **Total First Year Costs** | $2,500 | **$36,500 Lifetime** |
These estimated costs demonstrate that while the initial purchase price is significant, prospective owners need to plan for roughly $2,000 – $3,000 in expenses per year. Over the 10-12 year average lifespan of a Doberman, total costs usually end up exceeding $35,000.
Is a White Doberman the Right Choice?
Despite their appealing looks, white Dobermans are not ideal dogs for everyone. Consider these key questions before deciding if one of these uncommon Dobies is the right pet for you:
- Are you prepared to pay the higher upfront and lifetime costs compared to other colors?
- Can you provide proper exercise, stimulation, and training for this highly active breed?
- Are you comfortable with the health screening recommended for white Dobies to avoid issues like skin cancer?
- Does your lifestyle accommodate the substantial time commitment and shedding levels of Dobermans?
- Do local breed restrictions make owning a Doberman problematic where you live?
For the right owner, a white Doberman can make an amazing companion that stands out from the crowd. But be sure you fully understand this breed’s extensive needs and quirks before making the considerable investment involved with one of these striking dogs.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
Locating a responsible breeder focused on healthy white Dobermans is key to getting a dog worth the higher price tag. Be very wary of breeders who seem to cut corners or charge less than the typical $1,500 starting price for white pups. This likely indicates substandard breeding practices.
Here are tips for identifying and selecting a top-notch Doberman breeder:
- Ask to see documented health testing on the parents
- Confirm they follow the DPCA code of ethics
- Request references and reviews from other buyers
- Expect a waiting list – quality breeders rarely have pups readily available
- Ask detailed questions and ensure you align on philosophies like breeding frequency, puppy raising, etc.
- Avoid breeders who seem motivated primarily by profit or have multiple litters available
Patience and diligence are required to find a breeder producing sound white Dobies worthy of their premium price. But this extra effort helps ensure a happy and healthy dog for years to come.
Conclusion
A rare white Doberman puppy often costs $1,500 to $3,000 or more from a responsible breeder, which is $500 – $1,500 higher than other color variations. While this initial investment is significant, lifetime costs of health, training, care and other expenses usually exceed $35,000. Factors like pedigree, titles, location and gender also impact price. While appealing, these dogs require special commitment. Finding an ethical breeder focused on health and temperament is essential to get a white Doberman truly worth the higher value.