How To Find A Responsible Breeder

Long time Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeder explains what to look for when you buy a puppy.

[@pambeni5635]

I sure would like to see what is going on out of camera range. I bet it is so very cute!

[@paulab984]

I loved seeing the dogs change from scene to scene! Cavalier heaven!

[@elaine3345]

Your Cavaliers jumping up on your lap was a perfect example of how they are loving companion dogs. Puppy mills are horrible places. It is obvious you are a wonderful, responsible breeder.

[@pilarmontesfrechina1032]

Excelente vídeo informativo , y los sonidos de los cachorros de fondo y los cambios en el sofá , lo mejor😂😂😂😘😘

[@ZolaneG]

This was very helpful! Thank you so much.

[@cheanders1]

This is such good information! I wish I would have known all of this information before we got our last puppy. We are so far very happy. We did a home visit with the breeder who had very positive reviews. Her website online said the dogs were examined by specialists to make sure there were no issues as you said with heart, hips, eyes and such. When visiting in person I asked about this and she said she no longer did because she had been doing it for so long and had not had issues. That should have been a red flag but we went ahead anyway. Btw, Boo is adorable❤️

[@steedfamily3384]

Are puppy was the opposite. they had had problems with the shipping. so they let us meet in person to get our puppy. Even when they had shipping available they let you come and pick up the puppy in person.if you wanted to and meet with the people.

[@jessicasmith3038]

Love the video! Thanks for spreading great information!

[@kathymcbeath5004]

I do appreciate all of your videos. Good info in every one. Thank you

[@denzelwashingtonfan]

Thanks you doing beautiful job 💐

[@petemarshall7618]

Excellent video and information -- thank you very much!

[@sunblock8717]

Thank you for this video!!

[@colleendobbertien4723]

Great video - extremely informative! And all the Cav puppy noises in the background were wonderful!!

[@carmaarmstrong9743]

Thanks for this informative video! It is very obvious your dogs and puppies have a great home.

[@carole4136]

This is a very informative video. Thank you for all of the wonderful videos that you share.

[@iceberrypink4350]

Thank you for a wonderful video helping future owners to find a great dog. My cavalier was truly the light of my life and lived to age 15. I couldn't have imagined losing her at a much earlier age due to poor health.

[@beverlyromeo6199]

I always love listening to your videos you're so full of helpful information I appreciate it thank you so much and I just adore all of the dogs

[@charleskletter8974]

You are a perfect breeder for me and my mom

[@saranyapoomhiran9277]

You're the best breeder! I enjoyed all your videos, very informative. Thank you for doing this.

[@WideEyesGaming]

Wonderful video, thank you.

[@marytheresa5621]

I initially thought you also had a blenheim on your lap! Haha..it's been a long week! Great video and great shirt!

[@kathrynmettelka7216]

Thanks for your focus on health issues and the horrors of puppy mills. I'm glad you interview prospective owners. I have a friend who lives near the NC and SC border where people (?) bring dogs to dump . Dogs do not deserve abandonment.

[@bethmurphy5722]

Thank you so much for an informative video. All of those things apply so well. Its true that a good breeder will want to interview prospective dog owners and it goes both ways. We stalked breeding shows, got to know breeders, learned who was local, ethical and caring. Just before another COVID lockdown we lucked into the chance of rescuing a 1 year old Cav being rehomed by a breeder we were very comfortable with. Sadly, the Cav had been returned after his owner had passed away. He was a show dog, very well trained is beautifu and is now our best boy, Galileo. Patience and relationship building pays off.

[@susantomes6721]

Thank you for this wonderful, clear information. I live in the U. K. So unfortunately I would not be able to avail myself of one of your beautiful, well. cared for puppies. How I love to see them, it always makes me smile 😊 how I should love a cuddle with one of them! 🐶🐶🐶

[@tanyastinson4633]

I think I am almost caught up with all your videos! Thank you for providing this information. I wish I had known it 15 years ago when I got my Barkley and a year later his "sister" Gypsy. Gypsy developed MVD when she was 11 and I lost her just shy of 13 due to complications related to MVD. Thankfully, I got super lucky when I purchased Barkley from a young woman who did not want him (he was a present) He is heart clear and STILL with me. Although we had a bit of a scare, just* (yesterday) he had to have a toe amputated due to a cancerous tumor. He is going to be fine. (thank god) Anyway, thank you again. I love watching the babies and hearing of your pups successes and antics. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@nalalilly1210]

great information, would love to get one of your puppies.

[@jerrireneahayden390]

I love watching your videos. Thank you for all the information you give. We got a Cavapoo puppy a year and half ago from a wonderful breeder who breeds Cavaliers as well. He goes above and beyond and he also shows his dogs. We got to see all of the award ribbons and the dogs. He won’t let people go inside the area the puppies are but he allows us to see them. We have wanted a cavalier for a long time now and finally in September we get to go get a little girl cavalier puppy from him. He’s from Mountain Grove Mo. wonderful guy!

[@jscook54]

Very important information.

[@victoriasmith815]

Thank you for this video. I’d like to become a responsible breeder & am learning a great deal of excellent tips from you . ❤

[@bheiser1comcast]

Thanks Charlie for this video. Puppy mills are terrible. I foster for Cavalier Rescue USA and have had my share of sick, undersocialized, depressed little dogs. Everyone who thinks about getting a puppy from a puppy mill should first meet one of the poor "survivors". I have had dogs that only know the companionship of other dogs and spend their entire lives in a pen or cage having puppies every time they come in season from under a year old to up to 10 years of age. If you want a cavalier, rescue is a wonderful resource. Puppies are rare in rescue, but the dogs come with all medical problems addressed, and most behavioral issues taken care of. There are a number of good, responsible cavalier rescues out there. Please check them out if you are looking for a cavalier.

[@robertaborsellino3456]

Thank you for sharing!

[@gloriamargolis581]

Thank you so much, I am going to be looking for another Cavalier in the near future but I live currently in California, if you can give me your info to reach out when I’m ready and we can speak that would be lovely 🥰 I love cavaliers with my ❤ and soul 🙏🏻✨🐶

[@stephanieduffey1]

I’m sooo grateful there are people like you out here educating us on what to look forward in a good breeder! I started looking on the “good dog” website to learn about the characteristics of healthy dogs via the practices of good breeders there but you pointed out things I wouldn’t have thought were all that important like whether a breeder shows their dogs & the mindset behind it. I have two questions: 1- Who could you recommend in northwest FL? 2- Is there a website we can go to to find out where & how visit the shows? One of the earlier comments mentioned that being helpful in seeing which breeders were reputable & local. GREAT INFO!

[@chaskat35]

1. Contact Pat Mixon: [phone], [e-mail]. She is in Tallahassee, and I would trust her recommendations. 2. Look at ckcsc.org/events. That's our breed club's listing of shows and other events. Nothing too close to you, but that's where you will find the best and most trustworthy breeders. You can also find a listing of AKC shows at infodog.com, where shows in every area of the country are listed under "Show Info" but it will be very difficult for you to sort through the professional handlers and not-so-good breeders at many of these shows.

[@mindymarie3379]

Thank you so much for this information! Awww! Your dogs are so precious! I am hoping to adopt a Cavalier one day. My husband and I have 2 Cocker Spaniels. We love the spaniels! I have noticed that the Cavaliers seem to be calmer in temperament than our American Cocker Spaniels. We are thinking, as we get older, that a Cavalier would be perfect for us. I did reach out to you a few months ago, and you gave me the names of some qualified breeders near us as we live in Arizona. I love watching your videos and seeing your beautiful dogs! Thank you for sharing this important information as well! God Bless You!

[@chaskat35]

To say that Cavaliers are calmer in temperament than Cockers is like saying that Usain Bolt is a faster runner than I am. Cavaliers are a perfect pet for people of any age, but they are especially comforting for us seniors. When you are ready, let me know if I can be of any further help.

[@mindymarie3379]

@@chaskat35 Thank you so much! I certainly will do that as you are my “go to” concerning Cavalier Spaniels. 😀💕

[@dancingqueen880]

Thank you for your precious and informative video’s, We have been enjoying them for over a year. We are interested in meeting you and if possible get on a list to receive one of your beautiful and sweet Cavaliers.

[@chaskat35]

We live in New York on Long Island. If you're in the area, we would welcome you for a visit, but we have no prospect for a litter for some time to come.

[@chaskat35]

If you let me know where you live, I might be able to make some recommendations.

[@christinewhite2718]

Love your videos. I live in Australia and have only just starting thinking about getting another Cavalier only took 8 years after loosing my Ruby boy. Is there testing yet for Syringomeylia? My beautiful Daisy was the first dog in New Zealand to be diagnosed with it. I had never even heard of before then. It is such a horrible disease she was only six months old when she got it. Thank you opening your home up to allow us to see your beautiful dogs and how to spot a responsible breeder over a puppy farm

[@chaskat35]

The only testing for SM is to do an MRI of the skull and spinal chord. However, it's not always conclusive, and it's best used to confirm a diagnosis of a suspected affected dog. It's also pretty expensive. I think the best procedure is to stick with breeders that have top-notch reputations, and no history of SM in their lines. Of course, it's much easier for someone like me with lots of connections in the dog world to determine which lines to use or not use, so you might want to see if you can find a local breeder who is reputable and trustworthy, and is willing to give you recommendations of other breeders you should contact.

[@christinewhite2718]

@@chaskat35 Thank You

[@user-qi9qk4wb1i]

I love your videos! I reached out on your website and learned your waitlist is currently closed until later next year. I am hoping to adopt a Cavalier before then / as soon as realistically possible. I am in Boston and able to travel to pick up a pup, preferably in the Northeast. I’ve reviewed the club pages, but would love any referrals for breeders with available or soon-available litters (MA, NY, PA, RI, VT, etc). Thank you!!

[@chaskat35]

It's close to impossible to connect you with a reputable breeder who has puppies available - your best bet is to make contact with a few, and stay in touch. With some breeders with a higher volume than we have, things can change quickly, and if you're already in touch with them you have a chance at a puppy. Go to www.ckcsc.org/breeders, and search by state. These are all breeders who are members of our breed club, and are bound by our Code of Ethics.

[@wt0416]

Very informative vlog. Thanks. My cavalier bleheim was from an amish breeder and she had some eye problem. I found out later that this breeder was an backyard breeder. I thought all breeders were breeders. Long story short, she past away this august and bc of ur vlog, im searching all responsible breeders and not from backyard breeders. Question i have is that is all amish backyard breeders? Another question is i hear people say cavalier king charles or king charles spaniels, are they the same thing, they just say it differently?

[@maribetsforeveryounglilang1281]

Well put! Apple wanted to be the center of attention! lol

[@GabrielBadwolf]

Puppy mills are called puppy farms and are illegal here. Still happens but it helps reduce things. Also you don’t get puppies for sale in pet shops.

[@sheliaprice8541]

I was given a pure blood Ruby that was used as a breeder in what was a puppy mill Rory was kept in a cage until he was five years old the breeder began breeding with poodles and didn't like the color the puppies came out. Now my question Rory has learned to love me but and has excepted my granddaughter but not all the way other than that he is totally scared of anyone else.he is seven years old do you think he has a chance to like others anyone can pet him but he backs as far back in his crate as he can "his safe place" I have had him seven months he followed me around some, likes sleeping on the couch part of the time . I love all of your videos I came across them when I was researching Cavilers. Thank you , Jamba and Apple for sharing with me.

[@chaskat35]

He obviously has some temperament problems, but he can learn to accept other people. It will take some very conscienscious socialization - gradual exposure to new people in a setting where he feels safe, and lots of praise and rewards when he accepts someone new.

[@alyssarosengard6674]

I’m sure you probably know where I adopted my English Toy. Elaine Lessig bred my sweetie. She is an amazing cavalier breeder. We were very lucky to get Digby from her. I call her grandma and constantly send her pics to update her.

[@chaskat35]

Elaine is wonderful - without her, the Meadowlands Cavalier Club would not be the successful breed club it is today. You did a good job finding a reputable breeder.

[@leaynfrancis9442]

Thank you for this. Im going to share your video with the CKCS fb group im in to help more people 😊

[@abbisabel7808]

Thank you for this informative video! I have been doing a lot of research and my partner and I are finally at a "ready" state to bring a puppy into our home. We live in Chicago but are able to travel to bring a little one home. Do you have any suggestions for reputable breeders in the Chicago or surrounding areas? Thanks so much!

[@chaskat35]

The only one I know personally who is anywhere near you is Stephanie Guzy in Waunakee Wisconsin (773-332-8186). You might also try emailing Chris and Yolanda Degen at [e-mail]. Chris is the President of our breed club's Midwest region, and may also be able to give you some referrals.

[@jkb8748]

Thank you for this video! All your videos are great. What about Chiari malformation/syringomyelia? Do most breeders screen for this in dams, sires and/or puppies? At what age should they be checked? I understand that this may not develop until late in life, and CM may not result in SM. How do you feel about the fact that the breed standard may promote CM and SM? These are questions I’m grappling with in trying to decide whether to get a King Charles Cavalier.

[@chaskat35]

As you said, there are many cases of CM that do not result in SM, and the reverse is also true at times. Nearly all the US breeders I know who formerly did regular MRI screening have abandoned that practice. Instead, I have had great success for many years by just making sure that I never use a dog for breeding if it comes from a line where SM might be present. As far as the Breed Standard is concerned, it does not promote short muzzles and undersized skulls. Some breeders will produce those because the look fits their fancy, but if we stick to the Standard, we will have sufficiently sized skulls to fend off CM.

[@jkb8748]

@@chaskat35 Thank you! I just got a Maltese (my third) and want to get a Cavalier when she is 6-12 months. We’ve previously had big dogs, too (a lab, Husky, and Boxer) but now that my kids are grown, I get to pick without as much family input :). A trend with Maltese is the “baby doll face”, often with Korean bloodlines, that have the same short muzzle and small head that is associated with CM. It occurs in this breed, but not as frequently as in Cavaliers. They are also tending toward teacup size for Maltese. I got one that wasn’t bred for these “features”, and I chose the biggest puppy in the litter. I can’t help wondering if we’re on the road to selecting for CM and SM in Maltese and other small breeds.

[@conidelpino8988]

Great video. How is it puppy mills are allowed to exist?

[@andreacristinasaldanabetan5131]

Thank you for sharing this important information with us! Is there any good Breeder that you would recommend around Virginia or West Virginia? Have a great week!

[@chaskat35]

There are several. Two whom I know personally are Leslie Slusher of Fieldsedge Cavaliers (fieldsedgecavaliers.com) in southwestern Virginia, and Susan Weeks of Madryn Cavaliers (madryncavaliers.com) in the West Virginia panhandle. Contact information can be found on their websites.

[@kabe1498]

All of your cavs are absolutely beautiful! You’re a breeder, do you have a website or wait list?

[@chaskat35]

Website is www.blackfirecavaliers.com. We most likely will not have another litter for at least a year.

[@ianasidorik4767]

Thank you for a great vlog. It's very infomative. Is there a price range for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel when buying it from a responsible breeder in USA?

[@chaskat35]

In this part of the country (northeast), the average is between $5000 and $8000. I don't think it's drastically different in other regions.

[@ianasidorik4767]

@@chaskat35 Thank you! Look forward to more videos from you.

[@patticollart3317]

Thank you for valuable information…i live in Upstate NY…how do I go about finding a reputable breeder for King Charles dogs…I’m so nervous about puppy mill dogs….I agree with everything you said about visiting the breeder and seeing first hand where the puppy comes from. Any help you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

[@chaskat35]

Where upstate are you? If you are anywhere near Rochester, give a call to Anne Knauss (585-967-4190), who is an active member of the CKCSC, USA. If you are closer to the Hudson Valley, try Alison Matos (914-447-5625), also an active CKCSC member. They may not have puppies, but they should be connected well enough to the area to give you some leads to pursue. As I stated in the video, using a breeder who is a member of this breed club is an extra assurance that you are dealing with a reputable breeder.

[@crystallevy5948]

Great video! Can you recommend reputable breeders in or around Louisville Kentucky please

[@chaskat35]

There's one good breeder I know in Kentucky - Linda Fairchild 270-554-1013. If she can't help you, the person in charge of Puppy Referral for the midwest region of our breed club is Susan Shidler [e-mail] [phone] Good luck!

[@desireegleason2645]

I appreciate your valuable information!! Could you please tell me of any breeders you would recommend in or near San Diego.

[@chaskat35]

I don't know anyone in that immediate area, but you could contact a breeder I know well and trust, Linda Kornhi. She is in Oregon, but she handles puppy referrals for the entire west coast. You can reach her at [phone] or [e-mail]

[@jessirvington1946]

We have a blueday caviler ckcs, who part of the same club. I researched like crazy to make sure we got our CKCS from a super reputable breeder. He’s our first CKCS and to say we love him is a extreme understatement. I’ve never had a dog like this and it feels wrong to call him a dog… Anyways I’m constantly looking for videos about CKCS and it’s so upsetting seeing so many on KZbin where people don’t talk about all of this. I completely understand why someone would want a CKCS but you need to be a responsible owner and that starts with finding the best breeder possible. Which is another part of it, they’re not a cheap breed! We had a bar at what we’d spend on a CKCS and realized quick that if we really wanted one, we’d have to throw out the bar and focus on finding the best breeders. Also love this video, just to see what being in a room full of CKCS is like, please post more.

[@chaskat35]

I know Mike and Francesca very well - you have done very well to select them as breeders. In recent years, they have been producing some really nice dogs, and they are very conscious of the need for thorough health testing.

[@jessirvington1946]

@@chaskat35 Hopefully he’ll live a long life, like your Murphy. Really nice to hear you also know them and we made a good choice. When we were searching, we spoke to a lot of different breeders and we’re shocked how it seemed like everyone knew each other. We heard a lot of good things about them and once we saw the little ruby boy…. there was no going back. A few weeks after we got him, my husband had a ruby Ckcs show up in his recommended news feed, named Hellboy. We saw a hellboy on his pedigree, reached out and sure enough it was his grandfather. So we got to hear about how he’s doing and even see our little boys uncles etc. so cool! I’ve been referencing your KZbin since we started the process of getting him and after.

[@chaskat35]

Yes - Hellboy was bred by one of our highly respected breeder/judges. He made quite a splash on the show circuit when he was at his peak. And yes, we do all know each other. The best breeders I know all belong to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club USA. We have shows all around the country about once a month, and we all see each other and compete against each other on a regular basis.

[@sandypeppermint4665]

apple is like "what about me dad" hahahahahhahah thank you on the info

[@trishmcd1986]

I'm surprised you didn't address testing for cm and sm, but otherwise EXCELLENT video!

[@chaskat35]

In the UK, the Kennel Club has recommended a testing scheme for CM/SM, but the standard for responsible breeders in the US is to test for heart, eye, hip, and patella problems. Most consciencious breeders in this country do not routinely MRI their breeding dogs any longer, and there is controversy about the effectivelness of this screening. I haven't seen any data on a comparison of the incidence of SM in the two countries, but I suspect that it's lower in this country, especially if we don't include Cavaliers from puppy mills. I have found the most effective way to avoid SM is to use only stud dogs from lines that I know well, and have not historically produced any symptomatic SM puppies. In my 40+ years with the breed, and after scores of puppies that we have bred, we have seen zero cases of SM in our lines.

[@trishmcd1986]

@@chaskat35 thank you so much for that info! I hear such drastically different opinions here in the us, so I really appreciate your knowledge!

[@terezahs77]

Many thanks for great information. I have a 7yr old Cavalier girl Stevie and she is just like another one of my human children and she doesn't answer back (though she does barf :)), she's the lovelies and most magical creature I have ever had a pleasure with. Anyway I am very responsible with my pet and take her for regular check ups. What keeps happening is every single time the vet tries to persuade me to have her heart operated on and subsequently have her put on lifetime of heart medication. All this because she has heart murmur - but honestly I just think the vets here (Prague, Czech Republic) look at Cavaliers and by default would have them all medicated/operated on for their hearts just because Cavalier are notorious for it. I have been fighting vets off of our case for years (at least last 5)! I do not think that operations and lifetime meds are necessary on healthy active dog. But vets have businesses to run I guess. So we not only need responsible breeders but also responsible vets. Much love from Europe, 🐶🐶

[@chaskat35]

Thanks for the comments from one of my favorite cities in Europe! Valve replacement surgery is something that we very rarely even consider, but medications such as Pimobendin (Vetmedin) are commonly used and are quite effective, as well as much less costly than surgery. Do you have access to a canine cardiologist? If it were me, I would first have a cardiologist listen to the heart, and grade the murmur. Usually, if it's a grade 4 or less (out of 6), we don't take any action. For a more severe murmur, I would follow up with an echocardiogram to assess the degree of valvular regurgitation and enlargement of heart chambers. In some cases, nothing is needed beyond waiting and watching. More severe MVD would warrant Vetmedin, which can not only slow the progression of the disease, but can also reverse the severity. If signs of Congestive Heart Failure are indicated, other medications such as diuretics might be needed.

[@terezahs77]

@@chaskat35 Oh wow how great you consider Prague great! Of course I KNOW it is the greatest 😁. Anyhow, your reply really helped to put me at ease - my girl has almost level 4 murmur. No other health problem at all and she is in a good shape and very active and eats healthy diet. The vet means well probably it is just me being paranoid and over protective. I just consider a long-term medication for an otherwise healthy dog unnecessary and am worried about possible long term side effects affecting the kidneys perhaps or the liver. If it were to get any worse I will take up your plan of action and follow up with thorough cardiologist exam. Many thanks and keep up the videos I love them and so does Stevie, she watches with me and loves your dogs. 🥰 Much love from the heart of Europe.

[@chaskat35]

After reading your comment, I am working on publishing a new video on caring for older dogs with heart disease. Thanks for the idea. About 20 years ago, my wife and I took a vacation to visit cousins in Europe. Between visiting my Italian cousins and my German cousins, we made a stop in Prague for a few days, and stayed in the historic center of the city. To this day, those few days stand out as a highlight of the trip.

[@Pmjs]

My 1st Cavalier Lady was nearly as big as a Working Cocker Spaniel boy.

[@adrianagomez-bravo337]

You must have some recommended breeders? I would love to have this breed of dog for my later years, fast approaching. thank you for all the good info.

[@chaskat35]

The best source for a listing of good breeders is at our breed club website: www.ckcscl.org/breeders. If you tell me where you live, I might be able to give some personal recommendations for nearby breeders.

[@sashabenariel1]

I live in the Bay Area California. Can you give me some recommendations as well?

[@chaskat35]

There are a number of good breeders in California, but I don't know any in your area that I would trust sending you to. There is a breeder in Oregon who handles Puppy Referral for the western region of the Cavalier Club - I've known her for years, she is well connected to other breeders, very knowledgeable about Cavaliers, and I trust her judgment. Her name is Linda Kornhi, her number is [phone], and her email is [e-mail]. I think your best bet is to try to get in touch with her and see if she can give you some referrals. Good luck to you!

[@sashabenariel1]

@@chaskat35 thank you so much

[@cathypearson1889]

The little ruby girl sure is sweet. I suspect she will be staying with you!

[@jerryramos8434]

Thank you for the presentation. I am interested in a Cavalier. I am from NY and looking for a reputable breeder. Can you recommend one. Thank you

[@chaskat35]

Start by going to www.eastcoastcavalierbreeders.com. It's a website set up by our breed club, and every breeder listed there does health testing - heart and eyes at a minimum.

[@nellie23102010]

I agree with you 100% about all the oomments you made regarding finding a good Breeder. We did our home work and it was worth it. We have a beautiful healthy blenheim female cavalier king charles spaniel whose parents were cleared of heart, eye, hip and falling down syndrome. The Breeder had all the Vet Certificates to give us in a folder as well as records of her vaccinations and worming. Everything was extremely profesional and we had met the Breeder when our pup was only 3 weeks. She spent times with us and we with her. Her house was clean and it was obvious her dogs were her life. She sent us weekly photos of the puppy we chose. It was very exciting. We picked our baby up when she was 10 weeks old and I felt very comfortable phoning her with questions in the first couple of weeks as I doted over my baby. Our girl Nellie is now eleven and looks young. She sleeps on my bed and is my loyal companion. I am hoping for another 4 or 5 years with her. She has no heart problems. Fingers crossed. I would never get another breed now that I have experienced the beautiful loving and funny nature of the cavalier king charles spaniel. Thankyou for your videos. i just adore watching your beautiful dogs. They are a joy. It is so lovely when you are speaking to the camera and one is sitting on your lap and looks up at your face. SO adorable!

[@chaskat35]

It sounds like you did all the right things in choosing a breeder. If you remember her name, let me know who it is - I know breeders all around the country. Might be one of my friends.

[@lelialar]

Appreciate this video being made for people. How the hell are these puppy mills allowed to operate?! It’s utterly sad. One of my brother’s mill rescued Huskies paces back and forth all the time as that’s all she did for 2 years in a cage until all 100 dogs got seized. It’s horrific to watch her habits from her time there. How they are legal is beyond me. Grateful for people that go above and beyond like you guys for the future of these beautiful dogs. One thing I would also mention is that girls should not cost more than boys like backyard breeders do here. It is no different in price raring a girl from a boy.

[@chaskat35]

Not only are they allowed to exist, but many of them are licensed by the US Dept of Agriculture. One problem is how to define what a puppy mill is. I know excellent breeders who have big numbers of dogs, so you can't just go by volume. We all know a puppy mill when we see one, but it's hard to define them legally. Best we can do as breeders is to educate.

[@jkb8748]

California has passed laws that prohibit the sale of puppies/dogs in pet stores except dogs from shelters. You can only legally buy a dog from a breeder. Some have found ways around this law, but it has dramatically reduced the number of puppy mill dogs sold in the state. It is not easy to find a purebred dog, and most breeders in the state have long waiting list.

[@jessirvington1946]

@@jkb8748 Yes, they usually do bc they’re not pumping puppies out like a mill. Part of getting from a reputable breeder is knowing most likely there will be a wait list.

[@cherylstade3614]

I have heard that breed standards for show dogs can be detrimental to dog health. For example I've heard that show standards for German Shepherds require a curved beck rather than the straight back of a working Shepherd and this curve makes the show Shepherd vulnerable to back problems. Also I've heard dogs with short wrinkled muzzles such as Old English Bulldogs and pugs frequently have serious breathing problems that greatly reduce their quality of life. I'm curious what your opinion is on such issues.

[@chaskat35]

Personally, I hate what has happened to German Shepherd Dogs. The breed is only about 100 years old, and over the decades the show strain has evolved into the curved back variety we see at dog shows. The working strain has kept the original straight back, but they don't have the same high visibility. I don't know how GSD judges can properly evaluate gait, because the low croup affects the way the rear assembly works. Since I'm not in that breed, I don't really know that the cause is the Breed Standard as much as it is breeders' preferences. The breathing problems in brachycyphalic breeds, on the other hand, can (to a degree) be laid upon breed standards. That's one of the reasons I gravitated so strongly to Cavaliers. The original spaniels had evolved over the years into smaller dogs with smaller skulls and much shorter muzzles - what is today known as the English Toy Spaniel (King Charles Spaniel in the UK). Today's Cavaliers were actually recreated about 100 years ago to bring back longer muzzles and better shaped skulls. That description is today in the Cavalier Breed Standard, and I suspect that Cavaliers would have more breathing and neurological problems if we hadn't done that.

[@cherylstade3614]

@@chaskat35 Wow! Thanks so much for answering my question so fast. All you said makes sense. I think its amazing how many Old English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs can skateboard and even surf. They even know how to turn corners on their boards by leaning and how to take a few steps forward with one hind foot and one right foot on the ground to push off by themselves and the way French Bulldogs' two front feet pop up off the ground when they bark makes me smile always. I would feel a bit guilty though purchasing a dog that would encourage breeders to create more of that breed who would suffer. I do really like that we have distinct dog breeds. I think that is a wonderful thing. I was a dog walker for years and love all the differing traits of various breeds. Because people have different needs and personalities people with very particular lifestyles can offer a dog just the right kind of life if they can match a breed to their lifestyle.

[@alijames180]

It is hilarious watching you trying to get a sentence out with the darlings climbing and jumping all over you. Biting your ear lobes.

[@marjoriejudge5348]

❤❤❤

[@chrisnolan2330]

I wish I was in the US as I would love Gemma's next sister to be one of yours.

[@balexic]

How do you find the male dogs to breed with? Do you keep in contact with other Cavalier breeders to exchange males with good health (particularly good heart health)?

[@chaskat35]

That's why I think it's essential for us to belong to Cavalier breed clubs, and participate in shows and other activities they sponsor. I have a network of trustworthy breeders all around the country, and that's where I begin my search when I need a stud dog. Of course, once I think I've found a good prospect, I check the pedigree, give him a good examination for soundness and adherance to the Breed Standard, and check his health test results.

[@Michelle-oe7vr]

Great advice thank you. Is it possible that the parents can be cleared for disease at the time of breeding then develop a disease later in their life?

[@chaskat35]

Yes and no, depending on the disease. Hip dysplasia clearances made after 2 years of age are good for life; the hip conformation doesn't change after the growth plates have closed. Heart disease can appear at any point in life, but the later it occurs the less dangerous it is. So we don't breed our girls too early in life (minimum 2 1/2 years of age), and we re-test every year during their breeding years. The same applies to eye problems, and eye clearances are also repeated every year. Patella luxation seldom develops later on in life, but it can, so that test is repeated yearly.

[@Michelle-oe7vr]

@@chaskat35 thanks for your reply. My Cav girl developed MVD at age 7 and both her parents, mother was 3 and father was 5, were cleared at the time of breeding. She is on Pimobendan and doing well.

[@chaskat35]

Generally, a murmur that emerges at age 7 is not a serious problem, unless it progresses unusually fast. What grade is her murmur? I don't usually medicate for anything below a 4 or 5.

[@Michelle-oe7vr]

@@chaskat35 last year it was grade 2 and the vet said we'll just monitor it. At her most check up 2 weeks ago he said it is now grade 4 and recommend Pimobendan, so she has been on that for 2 weeks now.

[@ValgerdurLisaGestsdottir]

But if you would like to have a maybe 2 years or older? Where is best to get them, is it not a shelter?

[@chaskat35]

If you are looking for a mature dog, and want to have a purebred Cavalier (or any other particular breed), there are two possibilities: (1) some of the best breeders will place their retired show/breeding dogs when their career is finished. This is hard to find, but if you do, you would get a fully trained superior dog. (2) every breed, including Cavaliers, has at least one rescue organization affiliated with the breed club. For Cavaliers, go to www.cavalierrescueusa.org/.

[@stefaneepace2870]

Can you recommend a great breeder for cavaliers in Northern California?

[@chaskat35]

Contact Linda Kornhi (Quail Run Cavaliers) - she is in Pleasant Hill, Oregon, but she will be able to refer you to someone closer to you. I have known her for years, and I trust her implicitly. 541-726-3850, [e-mail]

[@AnnaLaBella-hm6le]

I live in Central New York. Would you know any responsible breeders for Cavalier's in my area? Thank you

[@chaskat35]

All of the breeders in NY I would recommend live in my part of the state, close to the city. In central NY, you might be closer to someone in another state. If you're not far from State College PA, you should get in touch with Barbara Grimm Curley (814-935-5324, [e-mail]). She is a close and trusted friend, and can probably give you some recommendations if she has no puppy prospects.

[@sandypeppermint4665]

what is your feelings on when the breeder says you can not breed the dog you want? is that a good thing or a bad? i felt it was bad because why cant i breed if i wanted to, im not saying i would do that but why do some breeders say that?

[@chaskat35]

All the puppies I place are sold with a restriction from being bred. I've made maybe 3 or 4 exceptions in the 25 or so years I've been breeding, but only for people who are already established breeders, whom I've known for a long time and I trust, and who agree to keep me on as a co-owner. The reason for the restriction from breeding is simple - if I don't know you well and if you don't have a track record, I can't be assured that you will follow the same protocols I follow to maintain and improve the integrity of the breed.

[@theduchessofspring2395]

How do you stop a puppy/dog from eating their own poop? Our six month old is almost completely housebroken and she will not stop eating her own poop. I'm concerned with the possibility of her getting parasites at some point if we can't break her of this bad habit.

[@chaskat35]

Unfortunately, it's an instinctive behavior, especially among females. For those of them who become mothers, they need to be able to ingest their newborn puppies' poop in order to keep them clean. There are only two ways I know of to keep it in check: 1. Clean up her poop as soon as she does it, so that there is none there for her to eat. 2. Sprinkle something unappetizing on the poop (bitter apple, hot pepper) so that she gets turned off to the taste. Neither of these is easy, but they work - especially the cleaning up right away thing. Parasites are probably not a problem - she would just be recycling what was already in her digestive tract. However, if there are some present in the environment, they may work their way into poops that are sitting there. Again, best solution is immediate cleanup.

[@theduchessofspring2395]

@@chaskat35 Thank you. We don't have a pooper scooper or something similar at the moment, but will get one soon. In the meantime, we do have some ground pepper flakes, so we'll try that when we take her outside.

[@chaskat35]

With just one dog, you don't even need a pooper scooper. Use poop bags like the ones linked below. You just pick up the poop with the bag around your hand, then turn it inside out and throw it away. There's a dispenser that attaches to your leash. www.amazon.com/Pet-Waste-Bags-Clean-refills/dp/B00MALO7KG/ref=sr_1_7?crid=2J1MF7Y6J1P2B&dchild=1&keywords=poop+bags&qid=1635200547&sprefix=poop%2Caps%2C297&sr=8-7

[@pambeni5635]

How do you find a good breeder within the area you are willing to travel? I did get caught up with a breeder online where you pick the name of the pup you would like. I may not have the giant $$$ they ask but I do have lots of ❤❤❤. I had a Cavalier that used to be shown and then bred. I received her at 5 years old and I couldn’t have been happier. This breeder had asked me but she has since passed on. So I ask you.

[@chaskat35]

Unfortunately, the costs associated with good breeding practices have risen to record levels, and so the price you will pay for a healthy, sound puppy is pretty high. If you pay much less, the chance is very good that you will have problems down the line. If the price of a puppy from a responsible breeder is out of reach for you, you might try getting a retired show or breeding Cavalier from a good breeder. You would be getting a fully trained, high quality dog at a reduced price. There is also Cavalier Rescue, but many rescue dogs come with special needs. In any case, to find a good breeder near you, first try the CKCSC USA website (www.ckcsc.org) and look under Breeder Members and also Puppy Referral. If that leads nowhere, try the link for the regional club website - each region should have a puppy referral person designated. If that all leads nowhere, you might try the AKC club at www.ackcsc.org, and look under breeder referral. Just remember to look for the things I outlined in my video.

[@maggiedevlin6187]

Is it true, as one breeder told me, that nearly every Cavalier will develop a heart murmur eventually as they age?

[@chaskat35]

Yes, but as long as the murmur does not show up too early in life, it's not generally a problem. Most of ours will develop murmurs between 6 and 10 years of age, and still live a long and healthy life. Of course, it's always possible for heart disease to progress rapidly and shorten a dog's life, but that's not the norm for dogs from parents that are heart-cleared before breeding.

[@barbarataylor1135]

Can you recommend a responsible breeder in Houston Texas area ?

[@chaskat35]

There are a number of trustworthy breeders in Texas - just go to ckcsc.org/breeders, and select Texas as the state. I'm not familiar enough with your state to know which ones are close to Houston, but that will give you a good list with phone numbers and email addresses.

[@maggiedevlin6187]

Thank you for the wonderful information! What is your website address?

[@chaskat35]

www.blackfirecavaliers.com

[@annettepotter279]

I want some of those puppy kisses

[@judyrichcreek801]

Looking for good breeder in Tennessee…any suggestions?

[@chaskat35]

Contact Mimi Hodges 615-983-0030 [e-mail]. I know her well, and I would trust any suggestions she has.

[@thomashanks1033]

Hello Judy how are you doing. I believe you are healthy and also having a nice weather where you are. I live in Virginia and I'm looking for a new friend Ok!

[@davide3129]

Any recommended breeders in Florida ? Ours has retired

[@chaskat35]

You should contact Pat Mixon (850-528-4442) - she is in Tallahassee, but she should also be able to recommend others in Florida. Another good one is Valerie Cromer (813-545-6021) in Apollo Beach, and Kim Conley (816-210-5575) in Jacksonville, both of whom I have known for a long time. Good luck!

[@Isrjisoneavalable]

Who is the little teddybear?

[@chaskat35]

That's Boo. She unfortunately developed such mats in her coat and ears from playing with one of the puppies that we had to have her shaved down. I hate to do that, but there was no way we could comb or brush them out. She was a gorgeous show dog in her prime, and she is the grandmother of our latest puppies.

[@bpgill56]

Where are you located and what is your website?

[@chaskat35]

We are in New York, on Long Island. www.blackfirecavaliers.com

[@diovanasouza30]

I would love to know your website address! Thank you!

[@chaskat35]

www.blackfirecavaliers.com

[@olicnana]

Any good breeders in minnesota?

[@chaskat35]

Unfortunately, I don't know anyone in the state. Try contacting Susan Shidler ([e-mail], [phone]) - she handles puppy referral for the midwest region of our breed club. She might be able to put you in touch with a responsible breeder not too far away.

[@jessicawalters8165]

i am looking for a good breeder in Wisconsin.. i am in green bay

[@chaskat35]

I'm afraid I don't know any reputable breeders closeby to you. You might try contacting Chris Degan ([e-mail], [phone]), who is the President of the Cavaliers of the Midwest regional breed club. He's a very helpful leader in our national breed club, and might be able to steer you in a good direction.

[@thatmanstumototours2270]

Shelters are full of dogs and virtually every breed desired can be found via a variety of organisations throughout the US and the world.

[@chaskat35]

Yes, and that's why I stated that rescuing is a noble act if it's the right thing for you. But don't forget that, without responsible breeders, the breed characteristics that we cherish would be gone in a decade or two. We obviously need both.

[@SS-zb4mm]

Poor Apple. She's trying everything she can to get your attention.

[@jaquelinedeponce5251]

Absolutely do not want a pup from an irresponsible breeder or a puppy mill.