What makes our Cavaliers different?
A Word on Registries:
We are members of the original Cavalier club, the CKCSC,USA (http://www.ckcsc.org/). We register our puppies in the CKCSC,USA and the AKC.
Please beware of those that register their cavaliers in any registry besides the AKC, CKCSC-USA or UKC. There are MANY other so called registries (CKC, ACA, FIC, DRA, etc) which are not reliable, will register dogs without DNA proof, register from unethical or breeders suspended by other registries, register puppy mill puppies or even register mutts. Also anyone can print something off their computer and say their puppy has “papers”. For more information on other registries go to: http://acornoaklabradors.bravehost.com/Registries.html
Accountability:
We follow the CKCSC, USA code of ethics in our breeding program. You can read the code of ethics at this link: http://www.ckcsc.org/ckcsc/ckcsc_inc.nsf/Founded-1954/ethics.html
Showing:
We actively show our dogs in the CKCSC,USA shows and also in the AKC shows. We feel the best way to confirm a cavalier is worthy of breeding and passing on it’s traits is to prove it by competing and winning against other cavaliers in the show ring. Many people say they only want a “pet” and not a “show dog” but everyone wants their cavalier puppy to grow up acting like and looking like a cavalier (and not like a Brittney spaniel or a Pekinese for instance)! High quality parents make for high quality puppies in most cases.
Our goal in breeding a litter is to produce "show quality" puppies, even if they will never be shown. We strive to produce cavaliers that exemplify the breed standard. Specifically dogs with a gentle, friendly temperaments. Correct, balanced, graceful bodies, long flowing ears, silky coat with rich, deep coloring, a cushiony head with correct muzzle length, large dark eyes and a melting, sweet expression.
Every litter of "show puppies" has some dogs that will never be in the show ring. They may not have the perfect markings or they may be slightly too small or too large. These pups have been raised with as much planning, medical attention and socialization as their show-quality litter mates. They make the best possible pets.
Health:
As a Veterinarian, I believe that health testing our dogs before breeding is the best way to produce healthy puppies. Any dogs that I breed have had their eyes and hearts checked by veterinary specialists. Also their knees (patellae) are checked for problems and registered with the OFA. Finally we do DNA testing to prevent producing any puppy with Episodic falling disorder or Curly coat and Dry Eye syndrome.Unfortunately cavaliers are 20 times more likely to get a heart disorder called mitral valve disease then are other breeds. Fifty percent of the general population of cavaliers gets a heart murmur by 5 years old. Health testing dogs before breeding them is the best way to combat this sad fact.
Socialization and Attention:
We are a small breeder, thus all of our cavaliers live in the house with us. We do not have a "kennel" and we never plan to have more cavaliers then we can give love and attention to everyday. We breed infrequently, so when a litter is born we keep mom and pups in our upstairs bedroom for the first few weeks. This way we can listen for and check on mom or pups through the night to make sure all are well. I check over and weigh each puppy twice daily during this time to make sure each puppy is growing properly and getting enough milk.
After the first few weeks the puppies are moved down stairs into our dining room, which is a larger area. I do this so that the puppies have more room to move around and play and also so that we can begin housebreaking. It helps to be closer to the door when you have six puppies needing to all go outside to potty all at once! Around 5-6 weeks old (weather permitting) they get supervised playtime outdoors multiple times a day. We live on a 21 acre property so there are plenty of safe areas for them to play.
We try to introduce our puppies to as many “new things” as possible such as cats, other dogs, children, men, women, strollers, vacuums, grass/carpet/wood floors/gravel, stairs, music and other items or experiences that they will likely come in contact with in a normal household. We do this to help them become confident, well adjusted adults that aren’t overly fearful or shy.
Therapy dogs:
We take several of our dogs to a local nursing home each month to interact with the residents. We sometimes even take puppies to help socialize them and to spread joy to the senior citizens as well. Several of our puppies have gone on to become certified therapy dogs.
Continued support:
We love to be in your puppies' life! We will be here for you if you have questions about your new family member. We will do our best to help you if you need us for the life of your Cavalier.
All cavaliers are not created equal! The old saying “you get what you pay for” holds true with cavaliers as well. So do your homework and get a puppy that you will be happy with for the next 12-15 years.
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