Choosing a Springer Spaniel Puppy - Basic Decisions

This article addresses the main initial choices you will need to make, and how you go about finding a breeder when you decide to become an owner of one of these terrific companions.

What Colour?

You may have firm opinions on colouring, and with the English springer there are two main colourings - black on white or liver on white (chocolate). Either of these colours could be combined with tan markings. Wanting a particular colour will cut down your choice of breeders and could require significant travel. You should visit at least two breeders before you decide. Then you will return when the litter and pup is ready, to bring your springer puppy back to your home.

Gender

Which - dog or bitch? Springers are loyal and affectionate, so the males are not a major problem when it comes to straying. With a bitch, you have to consider the obvious - keeping her away from males when she is on heat; there will be hygiene issues to consider at home. Spaying has side effects, such as a tendency to getting fat. If you do want to breed springer pups, then there is only one way to go.

Working Dog, Show Dog or Family Pet?

Do you want a pure working dog or a show dog? For an English Springer Spaniel, these are distinctly separate breeding lines and might affect choice of breeder. Both lines are good as family pets provided you are able to exercise them adequately. There is no genetic distinction for Welsh Springer Spaniels.

Where to go for Springer Spaniel Puppies

If you want a pure springer spaniel puppy with no doubtful genetic background then avoid 'puppy farms'. This is important because all pure breeds are susceptible to hereditary conditions (though the Springer is relatively ok in this respect). So, find a dog with a fully documented bloodline and pedigree certification which is in order. By choosing a fully certificated pedigree (which can usually be checked online), you would be able to show your springer in class at a dogshow - well, you never know, your children might like that!

Finding the Right Breeder

The main ways to find breeders are through:

- Going to shows and talking to owners and breeders

- Specialist dog magazines and papers

- Online web search

- Newspaper advertising

- Kennel Clubs

- Yellow Pages

- Springer Spaniel Breed clubs

Do be cautious about the small ads in the local newspaper. 'Springer spaniel puppy for sale' may be promoting a puppy farm. Make sure you see proper documentation.

Most Kennel Clubs usually operate a Breeder Accreditation scheme. Kennel Club websites or Breed Clubs will provide you with the Breed Standard (there are some differences from country to country). Get to know these and prepare a summary, so that when you visit breeders you will be able to have focused conversations about particular pups and bloodlines.

Of course, the better breeders (those with more show successes) will want more money for their spaniel puppies, and may also only want to sell to experienced owners.

You might also want to consider a Rescue Dog. Using a rescue centre requires more care and preparation, but can be a good way to go if you don't want to go through the 'house training' phase. There are other pitfalls though.


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Phil has been a long-term springer spaniel owner, both English and Welsh springer spaniels. Find out more about choosing a breeder of springer spaniel puppies and learn about rescue dogs at ==>SpringerSpanielAdvice.com