The Million Dollar Question: How much does a Vietnamese Phu Quoc ridgeback dog cost?

The price of a Vietnamese Phu Quoc Ridgeback dog can vary widely depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, bloodline, and quality (pet vs. show/breeding potential).

Price Range of the Vietnamese Phu Quoc ridgeback dog by Region:

🔹 Vietnam:

• $50 – $13,000 USD

• Puppies from local breeders or pet-quality dogs are on the lower end.

• Well-bred dogs from reputable kennels with good lineage and health screening can cost more.

• Champion lines or past and current champions will command top dollars.

• No guarantees. Buyers beware.

  
  

🔹 United States:

• $1,500– $10,000+ USD: breeding rights command top dollars depending on pedigree

• Due to the rarity of the breed outside Vietnam, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are more expensive in Western countries.

• Importing a puppy from Vietnam may include additional costs for transport, travel documents, vaccinations, and quarantine.

• Current import regulations to US: dog must be at least 6 mos old, requires rabies titer by US CDC approved lab - might have to repeat titer several times if not adequate, health certificate and microchipped by veterinarian in Vietnam, cargo fees ($3,000-$4,000) if not traveling with owner, airfare as excess baggage if traveling with owner, export document fees in Vietnam ($1,000-$1,500), airport kennel fee in the US ($1,500-$2,000) - additional charges if pet has to be quarantined, pets can only enter from 7 designated airports, not all airlines fly into designated airports. For detailed requirements, check the CDC website.

• Backyard breeders with poor dogs and no lineage will advertise on Craigslist for almost any price. No proof of pedigree or breed authenticity.

• Reputable breeders with proven litters and champion lines will charge more.

  
  

Factors Affecting Price:

✅ Bloodline & Pedigree – Champion lineage will likely increase cost.

✅ Health Testing & Vaccinations – Responsible breeders provide screenings and vaccinations, raising the price.

✅ Breeder Reputation and  – Established breeders with experience in preserving the breed charge more.

✅ Availability & Demand – Due to their rarity outside Vietnam, prices in the West are much higher.

Thoại Quân of Hùng Quân Kennel with VN Champion Cọp, 2017

How to Find a Reputable Phu Quoc Ridgeback Breeder

Since Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are rare outside of Vietnam, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and breed preservation over profit. It's also important to note the breeder's knowledge and experience with the breed as you will need guidance throughout the puppy's life. Also note breeder's transparency by visiting their website or social media pages to observe their kennel's daily life activities, puppies' living conditions, and how puppies are raised. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting a well-bred, ethically raised puppy:

1️⃣ Research Breeders Thoroughly

✅ Look for established breeders who specialize in Phu Quoc Ridgebacks.

✅ Check their reputation through online reviews, social media, and Phu Quoc Ridgeback communities.

✅ Ask for references from past puppy buyers.

2️⃣ Verify Health Testing & Breeding Practices

🔹 A reputable breeder will:

✅ Conduct health screenings for common genetic issues (inhheritable diseases, dermoid sinus, etc.)

✅ Provide a solid health guarantee, vet records, vaccinations, and deworming history.

✅ Have a clean, well-maintained facility (or home environment).

✅ Socialize their puppies with different people, sounds, and experiences before sending them home.

✅ Provide daily videos and photos on social media to give you a clear idea of how puppies are raised

🚩 Red Flags:

❌ Breeder refuses to provide health certificates or test results.

❌ Puppies are sold too young (before 8 weeks old).

❌ No proof of vaccinations or deworming.

❌ Breeder avoids questions or rushes the sale.

❌ No refunds for dermoid sinus

❌ Does not have a contract

❌ No videos of puppies and video journey of their birth and progress

❌Does not provide provisions to take the dog back at any stage of life, for any reasons

3️⃣ Ask the Right Questions

✅ How long have you been breeding Phu Quoc Ridgebacks?

✅ What health tests have been done on the parents? (Ask for proof.)

✅ Can I visit your facility or meet the parents?

✅ What is your process for socializing puppies?

✅ Do you provide a contract & health guarantee?

✅ Do you provide a health guarantee with a full refund if my dog has a dermoid sinus?

✅ What happens if I can no longer keep the dog? (Reputable breeders take their dogs back, at any age, for whatever reasons.)

✅ If my dogs have behavioral challenges, do you have enough experience and expertise to help me?

4️⃣ Consider Rescues & Breed Clubs

🔹 If you're open to adoption, check with Phu Quoc Ridgeback rescues or breed preservation groups.

🔹 Connect with organizations like the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Kennel Club (PQRKC) for breeder referrals.

5️⃣ Beware of Scams & Backyard Breeders

🚩 Red Flags:

❌ Breeder asks for large deposits upfront without providing info.

❌ Prices are too good to be true.

❌ No photos/videos of the puppy with the mother.

❌ Uses generic stock photos or refuses video calls.

Where to Start Your Search?

🔹 Facebook groups & forums for Phu Quoc Ridgeback aficionados.

🔹 Kennel clubs & breed organizations like the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Kennel Club.

🔹 Ethical breeders with strong reputations (ask for recommendations!)

Where to get more information:

Phu Quoc Ridgeback Kennel Club

pqrkc@yahoo.com

Facebook Phu Quoc Dog Forum

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Vietnamesephuquocridgebacks