Book on breeding cockers spaniel

[xander_ho]

Hi every one,

I'm new to cockers online and very much interested in the breeding of cockers spaniel. Can anyone recommend me any books? I have no intention of breeding (leave that for the experts) but like to learn more about line breeding and how champions are produce!! Also told that outcrossing can never produce champions, Is that true??                    

[KellyP]

hi there   see the link below for general dog breeding theory / practice info links

http://www.cockersonline.co.uk/forum/viewtopic . php?t=2618

The book of the bitch is really good - but I'm not a breeder either, but many breeders also think its a good book.
As for cocker specific breeding books, I don't know of any - perhaps some one else will be able to help you there, and answer your breeding questions

Kelly
                     

[LindaW]

Hi there and welcome to COL!  I am not aware of any recent books that have been published specific to cocker spaniels and breeding.  I have a very good old book which is out of print but sometimes obtainable from old book shops - The Cocker Spaniel by V A H Matthews published by Oxford University Press (first pubished 1949) - it has a good section on Breeding for Type and Breeding Methods and Plans.  It is a fascinating subject  
Linda                    

[xander_ho]

Thanks kelly and Linda for your help. After extensive reading about breeding I've come to the conclusion that breeding should only be attempted be responsible and experienced breeders. I have a dog (cocker) that died 3 years of age of a congenital heart disease and also a 10  year old that is going blind (PRA)(bless him), I totally agree with Jane S on the subject of breeding, that both dogs should be checked for hereditary disease before even considering to breed!! I'm really greatful for cockers online forum its very educational and imformative so if anyone who decides to breed ask yourself why are you doing it.                    

[LindaW]

Sorry to hear about your cocker that died at the age of three!   It is so sad to lose a young one like that - if you would care to email me privately I would be interested in the pedigree of that dog.  I have heard of a number of dogs with heart problems lately and have been doing a private study of their pedigrees to see whether there is any connection.  Do you know what type of heart problem it was?  As yet it is a bit hit and miss for breeders where heart problems are concerned as most of the time things like that are hushed up! Best wishes, Linda