I think any dog should be health tested that is going to be bred and gone over with a fine tooth comb before its ever considered to be
I certainly know that all my labs parents have been tested in all aspects and think that spaniels should be also.
I do not know why cockers arent done as I know its certainly not from the lack of cash in having them done
Whats the way forward in this
Or is it a case of wait till something goes wrong and then worry about it
I dont think sweepies parents were done but not 100% sure
But I know that in my situation in getting her it wasnt an issue, but if I had been actively looking for a cocker pup now, I wouldnt touch one with a barge pole who's parents were not tested.
Health testing although ext important, but is not just the bee all and end all, for example, Otter who comes from tested parents, is an abs worry for me, as he is a big boned dog, vey active and likes to jump up, run around. I have to be so careful with him not to put a strain on his joints in his daily activities, as I could be a factor in injuring him, I have now resulted in wrapping him in cotton wool so as to protect him from knocks, running and jumping as I do not wish to end up with him damaging himself. I think health testing along with careful exercise, a good diet is good, but how to convince those less concerned I really just dont know