How to Avoid Mistakes When Choosing a Springer Spaniel Puppy

This article addresses some of the initial choices you will need to make, and how you go about finding a breeder when you decide to become an owner of one of these terrific companions.

Colouring

You may have strong views on colouring, and with the English springer there are two main colourings - black on white or liver on white (some people call the latter a chocolate springer). Either of these colours may have tan markings in addition. Wanting a particular colour will reduce your range of breeders and could require significant travel. You should visit at least a couple of breeders before you decide. Then you will return when the litter and pup is ready, to bring your springer puppy back to your home.

Gender

Which - dog or bitch? Springers are loyal and affectionate, so the males are not a major problem when it comes to straying. With a bitch, you have to consider the obvious - keeping her away from males when she is in season; there will be hygiene aspects to consider at home. Spaying has side effects, such as a tendency to getting fat. If you do want to breed springer pups, then there is only one way to go.

Working Dog, Show Dog or Family Pet?

Do you want a pure working dog or a show dog? For an English Springer Spaniel, these are distinct genetic lines and could influence your choice of breeder. Both types are fine as family pets provided you are able to exercise them adequately. There is no lineage difference for Welsh Springer Spaniels.

Where to go for Springer Spaniel Puppies

Keep clear of so-called 'puppy farms' if you want a pure springer spaniel puppy with no doubtful genetic background and with full pedigree certification. This is important because all pure breeds have hereditary conditions (though the Springer is relatively ok in this respect). So, you need to find a dog with a fully documented bloodline and pedigree certification which is in order. By choosing a fully certificated pedigree (which can usually be checked online), you would be able to enter the dog in class in a dog show - well, you never know, the kids might like that!

How to Find Breeders

The main ways to find breeders are through:

- Newspaper advertising

- Kennel Clubs

- Web search

- Yellow Pages

- Springer Spaniel Breed clubs

- Specialist dog magazines and papers

- Going to dog shows and talking to owners and breeders

Do beware the small ads in the local newspaper. 'Springer spaniel puppy for sale' may be genuine, or not. Make sure you see proper documentation.

Official Kennel Clubs usually operate a Breeder Accreditation scheme. Kennel Club websites or Breed Clubs will provide you with the Breed Standard (there are some differences from country to country). It is well worth reading up on these and preparing a summary, so that when you visit breeders you will be able to have informed discussions about particular pups and bloodlines.

Of course, the better breeders (those with more show successes) will want more money for their spaniel puppies, but that's to be expected.

You might also want to consider a Rescue Dog. Using a rescue centre requires more care and preparation, but can be a good way to go if you don't want to go through the 'house training' stage.

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