It is a big decision to add a dog/puppy into your life. This decision should not be taken lightly because once you make that commitment you should make it for the life of the puppy/dog.

What is a "backyard breeder"?

This term covers those breeders with NO serious interest in or knowledge of Cockers. 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 are 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.

Most "backyard" breeders will use the nearest available stud dog (if they don't own a male themselves - nowadays most of them own a male!) regardless of whether the stud dog is health tested and regardless of whether the dog's pedigree is compatible with their bitch.

"Backyard" breeder's generally do not health test their bitches, or if they do, only the basic KC/BVA eye test is undertaken. 

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 your puppy's breeder can be invaluable!