09/11/2026
We often get asked why we dont take viewings on pups before we do !!
We completely understand how exciting it is when you’re waiting for your new puppy. You want to meet them, cuddle them and watch them grow — and as a breeder, I genuinely love that excitement.
However, we do not allow visitors during the first few weeks of our puppies’ lives, and there are very good reasons for that.
Newborn puppies have immature immune systems and are incredibly vulnerable. Visitors can unknowingly bring bacteria, viruses and other pathogens into the home on hands, clothing and footwear. Mum also deserves peace and security while she recovers from giving birth and settles into caring for her litter.
Those first weeks aren't about meeting their future families. They're about sleeping, feeding, growing and developing safely with mum.
As their breeder, I'm also extremely busy during this period. I'm monitoring mum and every puppy, weighing them, keeping everything clean, beginning our early development work including ENS and ESI, keeping records and making sure every puppy is thriving.
Once the puppies are older, stronger and at the appropriate developmental stage, visitors will be welcomed — and there will be plenty of time for cuddles then!
This isn't about being difficult or keeping people away. It's about putting the welfare of the puppies and their mum first.
And ultimately, that's exactly what I want from my future puppy owners too.
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we also get asked alot about how we got into working cocker spaniels so here's a little about us as a family
A Family Passion for Working Cocker Spaniels
Our story at Blackdown Working Cockers began with a lifelong love of dogs, the countryside, and the traditions of country life.
For over 50 years, our family has owned and worked with working dogs, building generations of experience, knowledge and respect for these remarkable animals. For over 20 years, we have been involved in breeding working Cocker Spaniels, with the aim of producing happy, healthy, confident puppies with the qualities that make this breed so special.
Our experience comes from many years spent in the countryside, enjoying shooting, beating and picking up. Working alongside dogs in the field has given us a real appreciation of their intelligence, natural ability, determination and willingness to please. We understand what makes a good working dog, but just as importantly, we know what makes a wonderful companion at home.
At Blackdown Working Cockers, we believe that a Cocker Spaniel should be more than just a dog. They should be a loyal friend, a loving member of the family and a companion for life's adventures. Working Cockers are intelligent, energetic, affectionate and highly trainable dogs that thrive when given the right guidance, time and care.
Our aim is to give every puppy the very best start in life. We take pride in raising our puppies with care and attention, helping them develop into confident, well-rounded dogs ready to begin their journey with their new families.
Whether you are looking for a capable working gundog, a companion for shooting and country walks, or a loving family pet, we believe there is something truly special about the working Cocker Spaniel.
Finding the right home for every puppy is extremely important to us. We want our puppies to go to loving, responsible homes where they will receive the exercise, training, companionship and commitment they deserve throughout their lives.
Blackdown Working Cockers is built on family tradition, countryside experience and a genuine love for the breed. Our passion is to carry that tradition forward, breeding and raising working Cocker Spaniels that bring loyalty, happiness and companionship to the people lucky enough to own them.
Over 50 years of family working-dog tradition. Over 20 years of breeding experience. A lifetime of love for the countryside and the dogs that make it so special.
Blackdown Working Cockers — bred with care,
