24/08/2026
Looking for an English Cocker Spaniel puppy? Don’t forget to ask about specialist eye testing.
When choosing a responsible breeder, health testing should be about much more than simply hearing the words “DNA clear.”
English Cocker Spaniels can be affected by a number of inherited and acquired eye conditions. While DNA testing is incredibly valuable and can identify known genetic variants for certain diseases, it cannot detect every eye condition that may affect a dog.
That’s where specialist eye examinations are paramount.
A comprehensive eye examination performed by a qualified veterinary ophthalmologist allows the structures of the eye to be physically examined for abnormalities and conditions that may not be identified through a DNA test.
And importantly, eye health can change over time.
This is why responsible breeders may have their breeding dogs examined yearly — not simply once when they are young.
When speaking with an English Cocker Spaniel breeder, don’t be afraid to ask:
Have the parents had specialist eye examinations?
When was their most recent examination?
What DNA testing has been completed as well?
A breeder should be happy to talk openly about their health-testing program and explain why each test matters.
DNA testing + specialist health screening gives breeders far more information to make responsible breeding decisions.
Beautiful puppies are wonderful — but protecting the health of the generations that come after them is just as important.
When choosing your breeder, ask questions. Health testing matters.
