What is a "backyard breeder"?

This term covers those breeders with NO serious interest in or knowledge of Cocker Spaniels. They may own one or more bitches and decide that it would be nice and/or profitable to breed puppies.

A "backyard" breeder is a person who casually breeds pedigree dogs with little or no knowledge of the breed standard, the careful selection of breeding partners or genetically linked health problems. They generally breed to let the children experience the "joy" of birth, to fund a holiday/new conservatory etc. or because they believe their bitch would enjoy having a litter of puppies.

Whilst it is true to say that many "backyard" breeders may be caring people, the majority have very little knowledge of how to rear puppies successfully. Often they do not have the knowledge or experience to support the buyers of their puppies (throughout the dog's life) and usually are not in a position to offer to re-home one of their "pups" should this be required in the future.

Backyard breeder's are likely to carry out a particular mating simply because they own or have easy access to the stud dog rather than because he complements the female.

"Backyard" breeder's generally do not health test their bitches, or if they do, only the basic KC/BVA eye test is undertaken, they very rarely use fully health tested stud dogs either! 

Buying a puppy from a backyard breeder is likely to be cheaper initially but may well end up costing a whole lot more in the long run due to health or behavioural issues. Not to mention the emotional cost involved.

The majority of puppies sold in the UK are from "BYB's". Some people will breed one or two litters in a lifetime; others will have four per year, year in, year out. For those breeding regularly, despite the number of litters reared, many do not learn from their experience!

Where to buy a puppy?

The best place to buy a puppy is directly from a reputable, caring and experienced breeder. Reputable and caring breeders are committed to their dogs and their puppies' health and welfare. They are also committed to the owners of their puppies and will provide life long support where needed.  Sadly the majority of 'Backyard Breeders' do not fall into this category.

Remember ...

Good breeders will offer you and your puppy/dog lifetime support. When you set out to purchase a puppy you may feel that support, help and advice are not necessary (or perhaps you may feel that you don't need breeders "interference"!) and therefore, these areas will not be a priority when searching for a puppy. However, please don't under estimate the value of choosing a breeder who will support you. It won't be until you have a dilemma that you will realise that lifelong support and commitment from an experienced breeder can be invaluable!