Getting a Black Cocker spaniel puppy... Where to find breeders?

neas

Hi all,

Wife and I are looking into getting our first dog, and have chosen the cocker spaniel as a great breed for us and our family.

I've been browsing the internet and can't seem to find a reliable resource for finding breeders or current litters that arent miles and miles away. Wife and I live in Plymouth so would be looking for a breeder in southwest devon.

Anyone have any advice?

Also whats the difference between show dogs or worker dogs i've been seeing mentioned?

Thanks for the advice

Jojo_the_Tightfisted

Contact the breed organisation - the secretary should have details of reputable breeders in your area.

But I would suggest reading up more beforehand, as you really don't have enough knowledge yet to be a good owner - cockers can be a heck of a lot of work, especially as a first dog.

Indie_Kid

Have you tried local animal shelters? I'm sure Gables Farm had / have a black (or very dark brown) cocker spaniel.

neas

Jojo_the_Tightfisted wrote: »

Contact the breed organisation - the secretary should have details of reputable breeders in your area.

But I would suggest reading up more beforehand, as you really don't have enough knowledge yet to be a good owner - cockers can be a heck of a lot of work, especially as a first dog.

Thanks . I've read up as vit already. Only concern is working variant seems to be very active.where else cam I read up about them. Checked you tube and wikipedia already
.

Kinski

They have their own forums at Cockers on line, you could always ask on there. I love watching Cockers but they're way to high maintenance for me http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/cms/

tizerbelle

neas wrote: »

Thanks . I've read up as vit already. Only concern is working variant seems to be very active.where else cam I read up about them. Checked you tube and wikipedia already
.

I am gobsmacked that anyone would think wiki and youtube are suitable/sensible places to go for information about any breed of dog.

3 websites for you:

The Kennel Club which includes KC accredited breeders in Devon

The Cocker Spaniel Club - parent club of the breed

Cockers Online - information site and forum for breeders and owners

If the only information you have is from the two sites you mentioned then seriously you need to do a lot lot more research.

Any reputable breeder will not allow you to buy a pup off them if they have any doubts about your suitability / circumstances / reasons for purchasing.

Granted an unreputable breeder would sell to you but you would likely end up with a dog with genetic problems that at best would shorten it's lifespan and at worst would mean the dog was in pain/discomfort and cost you a fortune in vets fees.

Padstow

neas, why are you looking for a solid colour?

Parti colours have an almost guaranteed good nature.

Years ago, a lot of overbreeding used to go on, particularly of the solids. You do know as well that black does not stay that black for ever? When they are about six, it starts going to a rusty colour.

If you look on the other cocker thread, I've recommended a book there. There are some cheap available on Amazon. Books that is, not cockers.:D

jesssy

Hi
Cocker Spaniel breed clubs and also Champdogs has a good reputation.
You'll need to decide if you want a show type or working type cocker as they are very different in both temprement and looks. Also TBH the KC accredited breeder scheme is not a guarantee of quality, and sometimes people say they are when they aren't too!
Jessy

Padstow

Jojo_the_Tightfisted wrote: »

Contact the breed organisation - the secretary should have details of reputable breeders in your area.

But I would suggest reading up more beforehand, as you really don't have enough knowledge yet to be a good owner - cockers can be a heck of a lot of work, especially as a first dog.

I really can't agree with Cockers being hard work, not show type anyway.
I'm on my third. He's a horror with other dogs, but that's because he was rescued at age 6, and I have no idea what happened to him previously.
I do know he was never walked.

The previous two, raised from pups were great, no trouble. This one is lovely too, just the dog problem. I tell him he's special due to his "problem.":rotfl:

mummyinthevalley

Hi,
I have been breeding and showing Shelties for 20 years, I would look for breed clubs on the kennel club website and contact your local one. Speak to as many people as possible and view a few litters. Be prepared to travel, your dog will be a family member for many years and it's worth making the effort to get the right one even if it means a few pounds spent on diesel and a day in the car. Good luck, hope you find your perfect pup soon!

Jen151

My first dog was a cocker and she was my wee best pal, lived til the grand old age of 14 - a month short of her 15th birthday. They are fabulous dogs.

Things to look out for: they can have probs with eyes and ears, so make sure you do a lot of research and get a great breeder. Check out the mum of your pup (and dad if possible) and make sure they have a good temprament.

Cockers are amazing, funny, friendly, intelligent little dogs. Good luck finding yours!