Choosing your puppy is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many breeders advertising online, and puppy farms operating across the UK, it can be difficult to know who to trust. A good place to start is by asking people you know and trust - local vets, trainers, breed clubs, friends or family members for recommendations.

When doing your research, remember that a reputable breeder’s goal will not simply be to produce puppies. They will be committed to improving the health, temperament and welfare of the breed. A good breeder will carefully select breeding dogs, carry out health testing and work hard to make sure every puppy has the best possible start.

Responsible breeding is fundamental to the long-term health and welfare of spaniels, helping to create healthier generations and reduce the risk of inherited disease. While not every health or behavioural issue can be prevented, choosing a responsible breeder can make a meaningful difference to your dog’s wellbeing.

What should I look for in a dog breeder?

A reputable breeder will be honest, knowledgeable and happy to answer all of your questions. Just as importantly, they will also ask questions about you. They will care deeply about where their puppies go and want to ensure each puppy is matched to the right home.

Look for a breed who:

• Is happy to discuss both the positive qualities and challenges of the breed. No breed is perfect, and responsible breeders are honest about this.

• Can explain why they chose a particular mating and what they hope to achieve from the litter.

• Asks questions about your lifestyle, work commitments, previous experience with dogs and what you're looking for in a companion.

• Arranges for you to meet the puppies, their mother and where possible, other related dogs, in the environment where the puppies were born and raised.

• Can tell you about the puppies’ early socialisation, including exposure to household noises, people and everyday experiences.

• Is happy for you to visit more than once and encourages you to take your time before making a decision.

• Provides evidence of relevant health testing and are willing to explain the results, as well as supplying appropriate paperwork covering vaccinations, microchipping (this is a legal requirement), worming treatments and veterinary health checks.

• Offers advice and support after you take the puppy home. There should be a commitment to the puppy’s welfare for life, and responsible breeders should agree to take the dog back if circumstances change in the future.

A good breeder will never make you feel rushed. Choosing a puppy is an important decision, and reputable breeders know that finding each puppy the right home matters just as much as helping prospective owners find the right puppy for them.

What spaniel-specific health testing should breeders carry out?

Health testing is a clear indication of responsible breeding. Spaniels are prone to a distinct set of breed-specific health conditions. While the exact tests required can vary between spaniel breeds, there are several inherited conditions that should always be discussed. Understanding the health conditions associated with your chosen spaniel breed can help you ask more informed questions and understand why screening matters.

A responsible breeder will be open and transparent about all health testing, willingly providing documentation and explaining results clearly. If a breeder is hesitant to share health information or downplays the importance of screening, it may be worth reconsidering whether they are the right breeder for you.

Why is it important to meet the mother?

If you go down the route of purchasing a puppy through a breeder, it’s important meet their mother. Seeing the mother allows you to observe her temperament, health and living conditions. A happy mother should appear comfortable, well cared for and relaxed around people and her puppies. While puppies inherit traits from both parents, the mother’s temperament and the environment she provides during the first weeks of life can have a significant impact on their development.

You should also be able to see where the puppies are being raised. A clean environment and regular human interaction help puppies develop into confident well-adjusted dogs.

How do I know if a breeder isn’t responsible?

Unfortunately, not every breeder prioritises welfare.

Be cautious if:

• You are unable to meet the mother or see the puppies with their littermates

• Health testing certificates or proof of health checks are unavailable

• Multiple breeds are being bred at the same premises

• You are pressured to pay a deposit or take the puppy quickly

• The breeder offers to meet in a neutral location like a car park

• Questions about health or welfare are dismissed

  
  

Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it's perfectly acceptable to walk away. Bringing a puppy home is a long-term commitment, it is worth taking the time to find a breeder that is right for you.

Why is it important to find a responsible dog breeder?

Responsible breeding benefits everyone involved: dogs, owners and the future of the breed. Poor breeding practices can increase the risk of inherited health conditions, behavioural challenges and welfare concerns that may affect a dog throughout their life. Sadly, some of these issues can contribute to dogs being surrendered or requiring rescue support later on.

By choosing a breeder who prioritises responsible puppy rearing, you're helping to support higher standards across the breed and giving your puppy the best possible foundation for a happy life.

Finding a reputable spaniel breeder takes time, patience and research, but it is one of the most important investments you can make in your future dog's wellbeing. Ask questions, request health testing results, meet the mother and never feel pressured into making a quick decision. A responsible breeder will welcome your interest and support you in making an informed choice.