Have you been considering English Toy Spaniel puppies in your quest for a new best friend? They’re great, but you should do your research before bringing any new dog into your home.
Here’s everything you need to know about this adorable breed.
Where To Get English Toy Spaniel Puppies
When looking for a new dog, some pet parents are committed to adopting. This is bad news for those who really want an English Toy Spaniel. This highly-desirable breed isn’t likely to be found in shelters. You may, however, be able to find a mix or a dog who resembles an English Toy Spaniel. Maddan…
For the most part, those looking for this dog have to go through breeders. Ethical breeders are a great resource, so don’t be afraid to check them out. However, you need to make sure the breeder truly is ethical. Many backyard breeders and puppy mills see dogs as a quick cash grab and will breed them and lie about their breed and health status.
Fortunately, they’re easy to spot.
If the breeder lets the puppy go home before they’re eight weeks old, doesn’t have AKC papers, can’t show you the parents, won’t answer your questions, and doesn’t have a spay/neuter contract in place, you likely have come across a backyard breeder. It’s tempting to do business with them, since their prices are usually cheap to draw people in, but think about the veterinary and training bills you’ll owe later. Far from worth it!
You can also ask to speak to past puppy parents to ensure you’ve found a good one. Cottagecharlies…
The Cost
The English Toy Spaniel is unfortunately rare in the US. That means prices can be anywhere from $2500 upwards.
If you think you’ve found one for cheaper than this, be very wary, as it’s highly likely it isn’t a real English Toy Spaniel.
Appearance
This short-nosed spaniel is tiny — hence the name! They’re also recognizable from their long, flowing coat that comes in a few different colors. Toby…
Temperament
If you’re looking for a companion dog that will love being by your side, you don’t need to look any further than the English Toy Spaniel. They are affectionate and well-mannered dogs who truly love their people. They’re known to bond very well with their families and love nothing more than getting attention from them.
The main thing to bear in mind with these dogs is that they can be reserved with strangers. While lots of early socialization and positive associations with strangers can help this, may never be the most sociable dog.
They can also be wary of other animals. Take introductions to other pets slow and introduce them on neutral territory before you rush ahead with letting them loose in the same wrong. While some English Toy Spaniel puppies will be fine, others will not. Luna…
English Toy Spaniel Puppies – Veterinary Needs
The English Toy Spaniel is prone to some health conditions like patellar luxation. The best way to be proactive and preventative is to keep up with veterinary appointments and ensure the parents are health-tested if you buy your puppy from a breeder.
As a puppy, they will need a series of shots to protect them from parvovirus, distemper, and other diseases. These can be picked up from the ground, so keep them contained until they’re fully vaccinated. They’ll also need a rabies and bordetella shot, which will protect them from a particular strain of kennel cough.
You will have to keep them up to date with flea and heartworm prevention, and should visit the vet for check-ups at least once a year. Your dog will also receive booster shots at this time. Maddan…
Diet
When buying food for your English Toy Spaniel, you should remember that not all food is created equal. Some cheap kibble is more full of fillers than nutrients, and can be damaging to your dog in the long run. You might also want to pick a food specifically for small breeds, as this will ensure they get everything they need.
You can also choose to feed your dog a raw diet, but should make sure it’s prepared by experts. Dogs are omnivores with complex dietary needs.
The main thing to remember, however, is that you should never feed your dog grain-free food over a long time as their main diet, as it’s been linked to heart disease. Cottagecharlies…
Grooming
Since they have a long, silky coat, the English Toy Spaniel doesn’t shed as much as you might expect. Despite that, they will need to be brushed every day to prevent mats, and will need professional grooming appointments for coat trims.
You should keep their ears and teeth clean. You’ll also have to cut or file their nails every few weeks to keep them short. Some dogs don’t like this, but with patience and treats, they’ll come around!
English Toy Spaniel Puppies – Photos
