Most of the common problems in Cockers can be allieviated with proper care, grooming and/or medication. However, 90% of the health and temperament problems can be avoided by simply starting out with a healthy puppy. This sounds simple, but it's amazing how many of us fail to follow common sense when selecting a puppy. We catch of glimpse of that little helpless puppy with the big soulfull eyes and fall in love. This is a time to stop and think.
As a responsible pet owner, this little guy could to be around for the next 15 years. Cockers are a high maintenance pet. They need to be groomed regularly. Unless you take on this responsibility yourself, this will require trips to the groomers every month or two. If he has health problems, visits to the vet can run several hundred dollars a year. On top of all this, you might end up with a pet that has a variety of social problems, ranging from cringing and wetting to biting. On the other hand, with some care, you'll have a wonderful pet that's a joy for all to meet.
Which comes first, the Cocker or the pups? As a starter, when your pup is 6 months old, have him/her fixed. Unless you have an extrodanary dog, you should not have it bred. If you are looking for an easy way to make money, please try a different hobby. This can't be overstressed. Most of the problems in the breed are due to indiscriminate breeding. On top of this, a fixed dog is often healthier, less trouble, and lives longer.
OK, so how do you find a new pup? First, don't buy your pup from a pet store or an ad in the paper. Occasionally you'll find a good dog from the sources, but most times these dogs are just average. In some breeds, average is good enough. In Cockers, it's a problem.
When looking for a new pup, do some research and find a reputable breeder. The American Spaniel Club (Margaret M Ciezknowski, 846 Old Stevens Creek Rd, Martinez GA 30907-9227) can be a help in locating a kennel. From articles, the ASC is listed as an organization that tracks the better kennels, those that perform health checks on their breedering pairs. You can also check around local clubs in your area for recomendations. Personally, I would attend the obedience trials and ask their advice. Traits that make an excellant show dog do not necessarily make for a good pet, especially if you want them as a hunting companion.
When choosing a kennel, check out the surroundings. It should be clean, and the animals should look healthy and happy. Check on the parents, especially to see if they have had an eye examination. A fairly recent event, eye examination clinics are held at many dog sporting events.
Personally, I like to look at the pedigree. I would try to avoid any pup that shows the same dog in its linage, especially in the last couple links. When this occurs, it tends to concentrate the same genes in the offspring. Occasionally a bad trait will be intensified, making the pups less than desirable.
One last note, often overlooked. You shouldn't buy a dog around the holidays. It usually gets you both off to a bad start. Every breed has their own traits and an owner should use care to make sure this is the proper breed for them. For this reason, I recommend using extreme caution in buying a dog for someone else. It's as personal as buying underwear, but it's around a lot longer, and can't be discarded if it's not a good fit.
Finding a healthy puppy from healthy stock is worth all this effort and more. Take the time and you'll be rewarded with a pet that you'll always be happy and proud to have.