How much does a Nederlandse Kooikerhondje puppy cost?

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje puppies cost $2,000 to $4,000 because breeding them responsibly is expensive and limited by supply. These dogs are rare in the U.S., ranking around 150th in AKC popularity, so there aren’t many breeders producing litters each year. That scarcity drives up demand among informed buyers, but ethical breeders aren’t just capitalizing on that—they’re offsetting real costs. Kooikerhondjes are prone to serious genetic conditions like Von Willebrand disease type III, hereditary necrotizing myelopathy (ENM), epilepsy, and patellar luxation. Reputable breeders test breeding stock for these, and those tests add up. You’re paying for clear health clearances, not just a cute face. They also invest in proper socialization, early training, and often import breeding stock from Europe to maintain genetic diversity. When you see a Kooikerhondje offered for under $2,000—especially below $1,500—it’s a red flag. That puppy likely comes from a breeder skipping health tests, possibly operating a puppy mill, or worse, it might not even be a purebred. You’ll end up paying more in vet bills down the line. The high upfront cost protects you and the breed. This isn’t a designer dog fad; it’s a commitment to preserving a working spaniel with real health risks that responsible breeders are actively managing.