We are very keen to own a cocker spaniel puppy, preferably a bitch and ideally in late spring,  we seem to be finding it very difficult to track one down - can anyone help

Any tips on where to look, please do let us know.

Many thanks

David Clarke and family
Birmingham
dc@fothergill.net

Hello. Try the KC website
http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk
and click ''thinking of buying a puppy?'' you will have to sign up to it but then they have a map where you can click on and see the breeders in your area. Dont buy puppies from a place with lots of advertised puppies (like in a news paper) as they probably are puppy mills. Also dont buy from a pet shop. You would be best with a KC pup.. then you know what you are getting.
Good luck!

Or you could try the Champdogs listings, or ring breed club secretaries,  I am sure one of the cocker folk will be along soon to give contact details.  Please remember that whilst lots of excellent breeder use the listings on the KC site, anyone who registers pups and is not a licensed breeder can pay for a listing.  It is not a guarantee of anything other than a fee has been paid.  With anyone offering pups, ask for references and recomendations you can check up yourself.  Make sure you ask about health checks for parents too!
bye
Gwen

Or try one of the Cocker Spaniel Breed Clubs for breeder recommendations - a full list can be found athttp://www.thecockerspanielclub.co.uk/breedclubs.htm Check that both parents have current clear eye-test certificates & remember the fact a breeder features on the Kennel Club list does not guarantee they are reputable - some are but some are not. One Cocker breeder advertising on the KC list not so long ago told an enquirer that eye-testing was not important & show breeders only did it so they could charge more for their puppies!!

Jane, great minds think alike (and type it almost at the same time!) :)
bye
Gwen