Questions To Ask

How many breeds do you breed?

A reputable breeder generally does not have more than two breeds. If they have more, ask how long they have had each breed and what their experiences are with each breed.

Do you have the parents on site? Can I see them?

Often a breeder will not own the sire of the litter, but should be able to provide you with a picture. You should always meet at least the dam of the litter.

How old is the dam?

The dam should be two years old or older. If the dam is younger than two, be careful to ask the other questions on this list and make sure you are working with a reputable breeder.

What are the good and bad traits of each parent? Do they have any titles?

No dog is perfect. Look for a breeder who will tell you the temperament and physical characteristics of the parents. Puppies from different litters can have different temperaments and good breeders are looking for the right matches for each puppy. Because of this, reputable breeders are usually happy to discuss what the parents of a litter are like and what they expect to see in the puppies.

Look for a breeder who is breeding dogs who have titles or who are actively working towards titles. Reputable breeders prove their breeding stock through events such as conformation, obedience, hunt tests, field trials, tracking, and agility.

What health testing have you done on the Sire/Dam of this litter?

EXPECT certain health tests to have been done. In English Cocker Spaniels the typical tests are OFA hips and CERF eyes. There are an increasing number of breeders screening eyes for PRA with the Optigen test. This test is working for the majority of breeders, but there are still inaccuracies with this test so do not discount a breeder simply because this test is not done. Breeders of parti-colored English Cockers usually will have BAER hearing tests done on the parents. Some other tests that are available include OFA Elbows and checking for Patella Luxation.

Where were the puppies raised? How have you socialized them?

Look for a breeder who is raising his/her puppies in their home. Reputable breeders work actively to socialize their puppies and should be able to give you a good explanation as to what they do to socialize their puppies.

What guarantees do you have for this puppy? Do you have a contract?

Reputable breeders provide at least a health guarantee and have a contract that is signed by both breeder and purchaser before the puppy goes to his/her new home. EXPECT this contract to require that all pet quality puppies be spayed or neutered.

Do you plan to keep a puppy from this litter? Why did you breed this litter?

Reputable breeders DO NOT breed for profit. They breed with the purpose of improving the breed. A reputable breeder has reasons for breeding each litter they breed.

Above photo courtesy of Chealsea ECS in Middleville, Michigan