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Michiko,
You are right, the prices vary for so many reasons. I know that some breeders get a lot more than shots done at the vet and those tests come with bills. Some breeders work more on the behavior and temperament of their puppies also. I have predominantly had rescue pets, and my parents were breeders and showed dogs.. In my home, if I'm looking for certain qualities (AKC, medical testing, socialization...etc) it's worth what I'm willing to pay. I absolutely HATE travelling and was on the verge of making a trip to your little Haruka's birth home to get a good baby... If I am certain that I am willing to deal with any medical or behavior problems and a completely unknown past and heritage, I got to a rescue. (All of my pets before our Yorkie have come from the pound or rescue...this time I wanted a Yorkie..)
Having had rescue pets, I do not kid myself about the value nor the cost of a dog. I have spent a fortune on vet bills on a rescue...I was very careful about getting my Yorkie as a Yorkie from a questionble line was no different in my mind than the medical roulette of pound pups.
Please dont think that I am arrogant enough to believe that my well bred pooch is immune from any problems but now I actually have pictures of four generations and have spoken with EVERYONE who has gotten a puppy from this sire and dam...It is different than wondering if my Frank, the wondermutt had been neutered very early, or did he have any of his puppy vaccinations..etc... We have the paper from the rescue and all we know about him is that he was tested for heartworm and had a rabies vaccine.. It's nice knowing more for a change.
As long as the person is aware of their own situation and what they are willing to take on, the purchase price of the dog doesn't matter to anyone other than the family getting the dog.