The breeder would have allowed me to buy the pup if I had said 'yes' right there and then. It was my loss as I had the opportunity to have the pup I specifically asked for but I gave the breeder the chance to change her mind by thinking it over for the night and not realising that also gave the breeder the chance to think about it also.
I think I will relax my attitude a bit regarding the markings.
Can I ask, if one is aware of a sire that is hereditary clear, does that ensure offspring will be clear or a carrier regardless of the dam,s health screen results?  Someone told me that so please don't shoot the messenger!

> Can I ask, if one is aware of a sire that is hereditary clear, does that ensure offspring will be clear or a carrier regardless of the dam,s health screen results?  Someone told me that so please don't shoot the messenger!

Clear for prcd_PRA? In theory yes if one parent is clear than the worst a puppy from that parent could be is a Carrier. However mistakes can occur - there have been cases where hereditary clear status has been subsequently been proven to be incorrect - not something that happens often but something to be aware of.

These days there is no excuse for breeders not to be testing their bitches (not just relying on using a "clear" stud dog) so would always recommend you source a Cocker puppy from a litter where both parents have had all the recommended tests, not just one.

I would have done the same thing as a breeder - sometimes things dont feel right - or we just cant let a puppy go. Had you have said you wanted the pup when you were there it may have been different