How To Check The Parents Before You Buy A Springer Spaniel

So, you've decided on a springer spaniel puppy. What are the next steps? You'll need to find suitable breeders with litters ready, and then choose a puppy and prepare his new home. But how do you choose a puppy? What should you check? Picking a reputable breeder is a good start. Then, you must check the litter's parents before you even look at the litter and pick the best springer spaniel puppy. This short article will tell you what to check. But why check the litter's parents?

You want to avoid a pup that will have problems and need regular visits to the veterinarian. Firstly, like father like son as they say - the appearance and conformation of the parents is a very good indication of the way the pup will look when fully grown. Secondly, it will help you avoid the emotional trap of falling for a pup that may eventually turn out to be a poor choice (this is a particular problem if your children are with you at the time).

For the best springer spaniel puppies, the parents should have a good pedigree as shown by dog show prizes won within the last couple of generations. Ask the breeder. A good breeder will be proud of their dogs' achievements.

The pup's sire may not be available to look at, but if he is, then for both sire and bitch check the following:

- Is the dog's body basically square - length equals height at the shoulders - not looking either elongated or compressed.

- Hindquarters should look strong and muscular, with rear paws pointing forward.

- The rear legs should have a slight backward rake.. This provides the dog's power for 'springing'.

- Front paws should point forward, or no more far apart than 'five to one' on a clock. Pigeon toed is not good.

- The paws should appear to be a continuation of the legs, not splayed.

- Look at the tail. The base should run parallel with the dog's back and not rise above it.

- Their coats should look glossy and healthy. If you don't intend to show the dog's offspring, then coloring is less important.

- For an English Springer Spaniel (black and white or liver and white), tan markings should not be excessive. There is much less scope for color variation in the Welshie (Welsh Springer).

Finally, make sure you check out a couple of springer spaniel breeders - it will help improve your judgement as you begin compare different adult springer spaniels.

The lucky springer may be with you for many years, so it's important to take the extra time to make the best choice for you and your family.

Phil has owned springer spaniels for many years, English and Welsh. At his site, discover more about choosing a springer spaniel puppy , and find out about selecting a springer spaniel breeder. His book 'The Springer Spaniel Companion' is now on Kindle.