When it comes to breeding, selecting the right stud dog is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The sire plays a crucial role in the health, temperament, and working ability of the litter. Whether you’re an experienced breeder or this is your first litter, making an informed choice can have lasting benefits for your line, your dogs, and the future of the breed.
At Breckmarsh Gundogs, we work with breeders across the UK to help them find the perfect match. Here’s our professional guide to choosing the right stud dog for your bitch.
1. Prioritise Health & Genetic Testing
Health is the foundation of any breeding decision. For working Spaniels, you want to ensure the stud dog is tested for breed-specific conditions such as:
-
AMS (Acral Mutilation Syndrome)
-
Fuco (Fucosidosis)
-
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
-
Glaucoma (eye testing recommended annually)
-
FN (Familial Nephropathy)
Always ask to see clear DNA test certificates. A responsible stud owner will be happy to provide them.
At Breckmarsh, all our stud dogs are fully health tested, with clear results for all the above conditions.
2. Assess Temperament
Temperament is often underestimated, but it’s vital. Consider the stud dog’s behaviour both in the field and at home. Is he biddable? Focused in the field? Calm and well-mannered around other dogs and people?
A well-tempered sire will not only produce trainable puppies but will also influence the early social development of the litter.
3. Consider Proven Performance
If you’re breeding working dogs, performance matters. Has the stud dog excelled in field trials, working tests, or practical shooting days? Look at his track record. Proven success in the field is a strong indicator of desirable traits such as drive, game-finding ability, and trainability.
🚩 For example, one of our studs at Breckmarsh is an Open Field Trial Winner with multiple successful matings this year alone.
4. Review Pedigree Compatibility
Examine the bloodlines carefully. A good match strengthens desired traits while avoiding excessive inbreeding. Use a stud dog whose pedigree complements your bitch’s, helping you balance drive, stamina, and conformation.
A well-matched pairing enhances the genetic diversity and maintains the integrity of the breed.
5. Ask About Progeny Results
Has the stud dog produced litters before? What are those pups achieving? Seeing photos, hearing about progeny success, and even speaking to other breeders gives valuable insight into the consistency of the sire’s qualities.
At Breckmarsh, we’re always happy to share updates on our stud dogs’ offspring so you can see their development for yourself.
6. Meet the Stud in Person
If possible, visit the stud dog before making a final decision. Seeing him in his home environment or in the field gives you first-hand knowledge of his character and abilities.
It also allows you to build trust with the stud owner and ask any final questions about the dog’s handling, temperament, and previous breeding experiences.
7. Work with a Reputable Stud Owner
Finally, choose a stud dog whose owner is as committed to responsible breeding as you are. A good stud owner will:
- Be honest about the dog’s strengths and any considerations.
- Provide guidance on timing and successful mating.
- Support you throughout the process, not just at the point of stud service.
At Breckmarsh Gundogs, we pride ourselves on building genuine, supportive relationships with our breeders.
In Summary
The right stud dog is about more than just looks or titles. It’s a combination of health, temperament, proven ability, and partnership with an experienced stud owner. When you take the time to make a thoughtful choice, you set the stage for a healthy, capable, and successful litter.