Responsible Breeding from Brendael English Springer Spaniels

Breeding is not a "right"; it is a choice and a major responsibility. Successful breeding programs can take years to be developed. Breeding dogs is a complex, expensive and demanding practice, which should be backed up by knowledge of the history of the breed, genetics and the heritable defects commonly found in springers, and strengths and weaknesses of the dogs being bred. If done correctly breeding is an expensive hobby, not a money-making endeavor.

Responsible breeders strive to breed to the standard and make improvements in every generation, planning litters as time, space, and resources allow. Because of this they may not always have puppies available. Puppy buyers may need to be patient and expect to be placed on a waiting list.

Responsible breeders have individuals used for breeding checked for heritary disorders. At a minimum, this includes hip dysplasia, eye diseases, and thyroid function. They should have this information on at least three generations.

Responsible breeders prove the worth of their best dogs by participating in conformation and/or performance events.

Responsible breeders are prepared to meet the costs of routine and emergency veterinary care. Care for the litter of puppies for as long as it takes to find suitable new homes. They devote long hours to feeding, cleaning, grooming, socializing, housebreaking, and training puppies.

Responsible breeders evaluate puppies and screen potential puppy buyers prior to placing with new owners. They take lifetime responsibility for all puppies produced. Generally you will not be able to choose a puppy on looks or by a photograph alone. Much more goes into choosing a puppy that its looks. It is more important to match behavior traits, temperament, and personality of the puppy with its new owner than the placement of his markings.

Responsible breeders can be found by visiting local dog shows to visit with area breeders. Responsible breeders can also be found by visiting the Parent Club, English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association, web site at www.essfta.org. On the site you will find "The Spaniel Manual," a booklet containing information that a potential puppy buyer should ask breeders, a breeder referral link where you can get a list of members who have agreed to follow the ESSFTA Code of Ethics, and other information about purchasing a puppy. And don't forget considering an older dog from rescue.

Please take the time to visit the following web pages. They contain additional information on purchasing puppies from reputable breeders.

Breeder Comparison Matrix -- online chart

Finding a Puppy -- online article

Responsible vs Backyard Breeders -- online chart

The following is a list of "Red Flags" when purchasing a puppy. Dogs registered with registries other than the American Kennel Club (AKC), advertising rare colors, puppies allowed to go to their new homes prior to eight weeks, and lack of health clearances (OFA, CERF, etc) on parents

Updated March 25, 2008