Opinions on this breeder

foxthegoldfish · 11-19-2009, 05:20 PM

After looking for ages I finally found a breeder I think might be good ( i live in New Zealand so its quite restricted)

But i really don't know much about finding a good breeder, I would really appreciate it if someone could give me their opinion on this breeder or recommend others.

The reason I liked they was that they said this;

"It is of major concern to me that many breeders are not taking the long term welfare of the breed into consideration and are instead concentrating on the immediate gratification of show wins and there by putting at risk the continued successful development of all 4 colours of the breed."

but what do I know

http://www.nidracavaliers.com/index.htm

Karinia · 11-19-2009, 05:31 PM

I would rather give them a visit than assume anything over the internet, but it looks legit to me.

Nargle · 11-19-2009, 05:36 PM

I couldn't find anything on the website about health testing, but that doesn't mean they don't do it. If you decide to contact them, I'd certainly suggest you ask them about what sorts of health testing they should do. Though it is impressive how many of their Cavs are living into their mid teens, expecially since the breed is notorious for health problems.

BoxMeIn21 · 11-19-2009, 05:44 PM

Looks like a good breeder to me. I would definitely ask about the health testing, though.

foxthegoldfish · 11-19-2009, 06:45 PM

Thanks for the input, If i do contact them I will ask about health testing

lizziedog1 · 11-19-2009, 07:09 PM

Quote:

After looking for ages I finally found a breeder I think might be good ( i live in New Zealand so its quite restricted)

Restricted in what way? I am just curious.

foxthegoldfish · 11-19-2009, 08:03 PM

were a small country so there are not many good breeders, we only have 4million people so it makes my choices restricted

KYASHI · 11-19-2009, 08:21 PM

Have long talks with this breeder and see if you can possibly see their dogs personally. That always helps. See how the dogs are taken care of. Are they sociable. Are they clean and healthy. What is the situation of their upkeep. Are they kenneled or house dogs. If kennels are they clean and in good repair. If in the home is it clean. Showing isnt everything. but sometimes when you have a breeder who talks down about showing it usually is becuase their dogs are not of quality. And only being concerned about the colors of a breed isnt telling me they are too concerned about the health issues. Just if they keep producing certain colors in the lines. Really look into them before you purchase. They may be great breeders but the internet is not how to judge. Anyone can put a picture of a dog on their website and say it is theirs. See the dogs for yourself. Check them out and make sure it is on the up and up. Good luck. I hope you find the dog of your dreams.

After looking up the pedigrees on her site. The dogs she has are out of very nice lines. The Homerbrent lines are the foundation for many top show dogs. If you want a good Cav. you should always try to get those lines in your pedigrees. I am still a little concerned about only the color issue. I didnt see anything about the health issue. Like I said. Talk to her. Find out if she tests. And definately go see the dogs. As far as quality dogs. She has them. Just make sure they are healthy dogs. Good luck.

Michiyo-Fir · 11-19-2009, 08:59 PM

See if you can visit as well. I agree to ask on health testing but their dogs look like they're in good health as many 12-15 year olds are still living well. They look to me like they have awesome dogs.

Since they do show their dogs for conformation they are probably trying to keep to the breed standard/better the breed. When I see a breeder that doesn't show/compete in anything at all whether it is herding, obedience or conformation, etc. I always wonder why they are breeding. What are their goals?

Um..also ask about the puppy contract as it is not on the website. Ask if you can see a copy of it and see if it's reasonable and look for guarantees against health defects.

foxthegoldfish · 11-19-2009, 10:41 PM

thanks for the repiles, Ill email them and ask some questions, I can't go visit because it is about 7 hours or so from where I live. I think I will ask more about the breed, health testing, why they breed, for a copy of the puppy contract and if they are house dogs.

What health testing should I ask about specifically?
any thing else I should ask?

Nargle · 11-19-2009, 11:13 PM

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I think Luxating Patellas and Heart problems are a very common issue with the breed. I'm not sure exactly what the tests are called, though. Also, most breeders check for Hip Displaysia and eye anomalies like PRA.