The best way to increase your chances of having a happy Cavalier King Charles companion is to start out with a healthy Cavalier Spaniel puppy from a strong bloodline.
The best Cavalier King Charles breeders will attempt to match healthy dogs as breeding pairs to reduce hereditary weaknesses in the breed.
Unfortunately, it is a reality that not all breeders stick to ethical standards. In fact, there are numerous dishonest dog breeders who prioritize financial gain over the well-being of their dogs.
Therefore, this article aims to help you find a healthy Cavalier King Charles puppy and what to look for in a Cavalier King Charles puppy to ensure your about to adopt a healthy dog.
How to Buy a King Charles Cavalier Without Health Problems?
Before buying a dog, ask the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeder about the health history of their dogs. If the sire and bitch themselves are still quite young, hereditary weaknesses in the sire and bitch may not have shown up yet, so don’t hesitate to ask about the health of the grand-sire and grand-dam.
When choosing a healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniels puppy from a litter, look for the following:
- Bright eyes free of any discharge or cloudiness
- Ears with a sweet smell and no evidence of redness or “dirty” look to them
- Fresh breath and gums that don’t appear swollen, red, or bleeding
- A shiny coat with no bald patches, sores, or rough spots
- A natural “gait,” no signs of lameness, stumbling, or obvious injury to the legs and paws
- The puppy should have a good appetite and gain weight consistently
- A Cavvy with no health issues will be active and playful, eager to interact with people and other animals
- The puppy should have a friendly, outgoing temperament, and be comfortable being handled and cuddled
- A healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy should have a sturdy and well-proportioned body with no signs of lameness or stiffness
Next, determine how many veterinarian examinations the Cavalier Spaniel puppy has had before you take him home, what vaccinations will have been given, and any comments the vet may have had.
Reputable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders will provide you with a copy of the veterinarian’s initial exams.
Make an advance appointment with your own vet for an initial exam as soon as possible upon purchasing a puppy. Be sure the breeder will allow you to return the puppy if your vet discovers a significant health issue.
Being stuck with an adorable but unhealthy puppy can result in substantial expenses in future vet bills as well as the heartache of losing a beloved pet earlier than expected.
Play it safe and do your best to find a healthy Cavalier King Charles puppy before you commit your time, energy, and love to a particular dog.
Here are some red flags to watch out for when researching breeders:
- Breeders don’t do health testing for their puppies and their parents.
- Breeders don’t offer any health guarantees.
- Breeders don’t allow you to visit their facility or see the puppies and their parents in person.
- Breeders don’t offer a written contract for the sale of their puppies.
- Breeders raise numerous dog breeds at the same time or have puppies available year-round.
Final Thoughts on How to Choose a Healthy Cavalier Dog
In summary, bringing a puppy into your life can be a wonderful experience. Still, it’s crucial to do your due diligence when finding a breeder and to be certain that you fully comprehend what to look for and how to choose a healthy Cavalier puppy.
By researching breeders, observing the puppy and its parents, asking the right questions, and understanding the health problems associated with the breed, you can help reduce the chances of health problems.
It may require some extra effort and patience, but in the end, it’s worth it to bring home a healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy.
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