Can you give me some information about buying a gundog?

A:

Buying from proper working stock is essential for physical soundness, which is covered by the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club (KC) health schemes, but also for temperament and trainability.

I suggest seeking advice from breeders, particularly those that have achieved the highest accolade of field trial champion (FTCh) in competition.

This is a KC recognised abbreviation, but while field trial winner (FTW) is a term in common use, it is not separately recognised or registered by the KC and can be misleading.

The same applies to a gundog working test winner (GWT), as the dog will have won using dummies and may not have worked on game.

D/DC means the dog’s tail has been docked and its dewclaws removed. For a hard-working spaniel this is essential to avoid injury.

Make sure you ask all the right questions of the breeder and all the KC registration documents are available before buying.

For advice, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk