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 |
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Gundog Clubs |
The Gundog Club |
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Breed Clubs |
Transvaal Cocker Spaniel Club |
Kwazulu Natal |
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| Gundog Club | Natal Gundog Club
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Western Cape |
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| Gundog Club | Cape Gundog Club |
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 |
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| 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. |

