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Choosing a breeder
Please consider the following
1. Most reputable breeders require that dogs not sold for ‘show‘ be desexed.
2. A reputable breeder will spell out the rights of seller and buyer, health information, desexing and any (if appropriate) buy-back conditions.
3. A reputable breeder shows a genuine interest in and love of the breed. He or she cares about where the puppies are placed. Expect questions.
4. A reputable breeder will guarantee a pup's health for a certain time period. Whilst there can be no guarantee against inheritable traits, a reputable breeder is aware of possible genetic problems A reputable breeder x-rays and performs eye-checks.
5. A reputable breeder is involved in the ‘fancy‘; they’re known in the dogworld.
6. A reputable breeder allows you to meet sire and/or dam or, at least, can provide pictures of the sire.
7. A reputable breeder follows up and is available for ‘after sales‘ assistance.
8. A reputable breeder tries to match the right buyer to the right pup.
9. Talk to at least 3 breeders before settling on one.
So, the final question, is a Springer right for you?
After considering lifestyle, temperament, health, you may not think so. Fair enough. Also, if you're looking for a guard dog, think again. Although Springers are wary enough to bark at strangers, the typical Springer temperament is that of a loving, gentle dog.
But whilst loving and gentle, the Springer is also an ACTIVE dog. (Please remember that the breed was developed as a working dog.) If you don't regularly exercise, perhaps a smaller dog would be more suitable. A regular run off lead and a swim is the Springer's idea of heaven!
Springers need regular grooming and whilst you won't need to spend the time to keep the dog in a show trim, unless of course you plan on showing, weekly bathing/brushing is important to keep their feathering from becoming matted (armpits and groin can be the major culprits here).
From an obviously biased viewpoint, Springers make wonderful family pets. They're fun, loyal, affectionate and intelligent. If you do decide on a Springer, you'll have made a wonderful choice. In the words of my son, Tom, (when asked how would he describe the temperament/s of our dogs) ‘they're fun and playful‘ .
And remember, the first step to securing a Tholia ESS is filling out our questionnaire.
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