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Spaniels

 

Spaniels

It is recommended that only reputable breeders should be approached when seeking breed information or if you wish to purchase a puppy.

 

See the advertisements in either this month's issue, our classifieds section, or our back issues featuring your breed of choice. Alternatively contact one of the clubs listed below for breeders in your area.

 

 

Gauteng

 

Gundog Clubs

The Gundog Club
Chairman: Mr SJ Landon
Phone: 011-963 1121 / 082 611 7840
sjlandon@mweb.co.za

 

Breed Clubs

Transvaal Cocker Spaniel Club
Chairman: Mrs. JM Musto
Phone: 011-792 0806 / 082 828 1590
jm_ole@hotmail.com

Kwazulu Natal

 

Gundog Club

Natal Gundog Club
Chairman: Mr. RM Ainslie
Phone: 033-3302642 / 083 789 2642
aisnlie@telkomsa.net

 

Western Cape

 

Gundog Club

Cape Gundog Club
Chairman: Mr. N. Smith
Phone: 021-783 3947 / 084 657 0702
wham@iafrica.com

 

 

Fact File - Spaniels - American Cocker Spaniel

 

KUSA Group   Gundogs
FCI Group Group 8

Original Function

Flushing
Modern Function Companion dog

Appearance

Refined chiseled head, strong, well-boned, well up at shoulder, compact sturdy body, wide muscular hindquarters.

Weight

Bitches: 12kgs
Dogs: 15kgs
Height Dogs: 37 – 39 cms

Coat Colour

Jet black, black & tan, buff, red & white, black & white.
Coat Texture Silky; flat or slightly wavy.

Grooming

Pet – regular brushing, professional grooming monthly.

Personality/Temperament

No suggestion of timidity. Merry, free, sound, keen to work.

Compatibility with other dogs

If well socialised, they interact wonderfully with other dogs.
Compatibility with cats and other animals If well socialised, they interact wonderfully with other animals.

Compatibility with people/children

Excellent.

Living Space – Indoors/Outdoors

Both – preferably indoors.

Space and Exercise

Require exercise. Can live comfortably in a townhouse but needs lots of additional exercise.

Trainability

Easy – can be a bit stubborn.

Suitability as Watchdog

Excellent.

Noise Factor

If left to bark, can be a problem.
Average Lifespan 12 -15 Years
Feeding Feed high-quality dog food – follow manufacturers recommendations for age, weight and lifestyle.

Health

Eyes – cataracts, glaucoma, PRA; auto-immune problems.
Availability Enquire via Clubs for reputable breeders and healthy puppies.
Some questions to ask Breeders Ask if possible to see both parents. Are the puppies registered with KUSA; are they de-wormed and vaccinated? Do they show their dogs?

 

Fact File - Spaniels - Clumber Spaniel

 

American Cocker Spaniel
KUSA Group   Gundogs
FCI Group Group 8

Original Function

Flushing (quartering) of birds for hunting.
Modern Function Tracking, flushing, therapy, companion.

Appearance

Stocky, broad head and muzzle. Powerful in appearance but with a gentle expression. Rolling movement.

Weight

Average 32kg
Height Average 45cm

Coat Colour

White & lemon or white & orange. Some markings on the head and ears.
Coat Texture Dense, weather-resistant, straight & flat with feathering around the ears, belly and legs.

Grooming

Regular bathing and brushing required. Shed coat frequently.

Personality/Temperament

Placid as adults. Gentle; loyal; affectionate. Puppies are inquisitive and playful.

Compatibility with other dogs

Good.
Compatibility with cats and other animals Good.

Compatibility with people/children

Excellent.

Living Space – Indoors/Outdoors

Indoors and outdoors.

Space and Exercise

Limited space is suitable. Requires regular walking.

Trainability

Excellent.

Suitability as Watchdog

Good.

Noise Factor

Very little. (But they do snore loudly!)
Average Lifespan 12 Years
Feeding Feed high-quality dog food – follow manufacturers recommendations for age, weight & lifestyle.

Health

Ensure that the parent stock has been tested & certified for eyes, hips, elbows.
Availability Only 1 breeder in SA who breeds sparingly. Be prepared to wait for well-bred puppies!
Some questions to ask Breeders Ask if possible to see both parents. Study the buyers contract. Are the puppies registered with KUSA; is there a vet document proving deworming and vaccination? Attend dog show to familiarise yourself with the breed.