Are the puppies registered with DogsNZ, do they come with papers?

Only puppies whose parents are already registered with DogsNZ are able to register, which ours are not. However these puppies are bred following the similar care guidelines. They are purebred (full English Cocker Spaniel both parents), but not pedigree (lineage known for at least three generations on all sides). We do know the grandparents and many of the great grandparents however. 

Are your dogs DNA tested?

All our breeding adults are either DNA tested by Massey University or clear via parentage. None of our pups will develop avoidable genetic diseases. Additionally we know the health histories of our lines and have very few health issues in our puppies.  

Do we have to neuter/spay our puppy?

Yes. Our puppies all come with a no-breeding clause in the contract, requiring all pups to be desexed prior to 12 months of age. This is to protect from accidental inbreeding, and breeding with sub-optimal or non-purebred, or not DNA-tested dogs. It is important to uphold the standard of the breed. 

Can I select my puppy of choice?

Allocation of puppies is achieved by discussing preferences and is dependent on availability and what other people prefer. Your first selection is not guaranteed. 

What is the difference between male and females?

Girls tend to be affection hungry and if you have more than one female they can compete for attention. Girls are more "Love me, adore me, I'm a princess". They love anyone who gives them attention.

Boys tend to be slightly bigger but still small enough to cuddle up on your lap. Boys are more chill when they are chilling and more playful when they are playing. They are more loyal to their people and are more "I love you, I adore you, you are my princess/prince". Boys are very eager to please.

Our experience is that girls are up in your face while the boys sit happily at your feet until invited up.

Myths:

It is NOT true that girls are easier to train than boys. Trainability is more a personality trait that varies irrespective of gender. Cocker spaniels are motivated by praise, attention and treats, so are relatively easy to train with consistency and time. 

It is not true that girls are more affectionate. They are equally affectionate and all cocker spaniels love cuddles.

It is not true that boys get fat when neutered, it comes down to diet and exercise as for anyone. 

It may be true that boys can be a bit more energetic, but both are very energetic dogs. If you want a lap dog, don't get a cocker spaniel. 

It is not true that boys are more likely to be aggressive. Actually the opposite can be true, but generally they are not an aggressive breed. 

Is cocker rage a thing?

Cocker rage was a neurological condition that was identified back when inbreeding was rife, not in New Zealand. It was associated with golds as red is a recessive gene and hence the pool for breeding is smaller. 

It is not something that is commmonly found in New Zealand and vets and animal behaviourists are skeptical that it exists. Generally when people refer to it now-days, it is actually poor training or incorrect handling. Proper training and socialising with a range of people and animals at a young age will prevent behavioural issues.

Do you re-home your dogs once they have finished breeding?

No. Cocker spaniels form very strong bonds with their families, and their families with them. We could never give up one of our dogs. But we also believe that there is such a thing as too many - they like a lot of attention and it is impossible to give them the attention they need if there are too many. 

Therefore, we place future breeding pups in a co-owner home. We pay for their expenses and they are cared for in the home that will have them for life. They visit often and come back to us for breeding and raising pups. After 3 litters, ownership transfers fully to the family they have lived with their whole life. No hearts are broken in the making of our pups. 

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