[Pointer]

I had a female Tri-cav that had to be put down at 11 yrs after struggling with 4 leaking heart valves. We did our research and got her from a holistic breeder and she was the best dog ever. Our vet said that there were different recommendations for Cav's because of their heart issues and it was not cheap to get her to that age. No regrets there. But there are no guarantees as she had a long lineage of parents without heart or other issues that they are prone to. She was a sturdy, happy, outdoorsy girl. Loved to hike and boat and be on the top of the family sofa and the family. I usually got the hind end. Wouldn't have traded the experience for anything. They are the best. Oh and her best friend was a chocolate lab.

[dbussone]

Originally Posted by Pointer

I had a female Tri-cav that had to be put down at 11 yrs after struggling with 4 leaking heart valves. We did our research and got her from a holistic breeder and she was the best dog ever. Our vet said that there were different recommendations for Cav's because of their heart issues and it was not cheap to get her to that age. No regrets there. But there are no guarantees as she had a long lineage of parents without heart or other issues that they are prone to. She was a sturdy, happy, outdoorsy girl. Loved to hike and boat and be on the top of the family sofa and the family. I usually got the hind end. Wouldn't have traded the experience for anything. They are the best. Oh and her best friend was a chocolate lab.

I can tell you loved your Cav. We felt the same about Winston. Wouldn't have traded him for the world.

[DruannB]

Originally Posted by Bonanza

Don't let Cathy H put the fear of God in you.
CFrance is correct in what she says and Dbusssone is correct in that all breeds are prone to something.
However, that should never stop you from loving and getting what you want.
Even most dogs of uncertain breed history have something in their genetic makeup whereby they are prone to something.

Throughout my husband's and my life we have had both purebred and mutts.
In purchasing a pure bred dog I would never buy from someone who is simply "having a litter."
Usually, it's because they want to make money. We only buy from a breeder. Breeders usually show their dogs and when they breed, do so for the betterment of the breed. Their dogs are a serious business for them. The good breeders will always have some champions in the dog's lineage.

I totally agree with Bonanza. I bought an American Eskimo from a breeder recommended by the President of the American Kennel Club. She breeds for show but occasionally has puppies that don't make the grade and will sale them to us commoners. Her dogs are known for their good temperament and overall health. My puppy came from two grand champions. I had to wait one year for a puppy because she only lets her females breed three times in their lives. She provided more documentation than I asked for and my dog is one of the few American Eskimos I've encountered who likes people and other dogs. I love him dearly. I also love our other dog, a lovely mutt we got from the pound. All dogs, regardless of their background, need good homes.

[Bonanza]

Thank you for your support, Druann. I agree with you completely and when you said that "All dogs, regardless of their background, need good homes," well, that was just the icing on the cake!"

[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by quirky3

This is a wonderful breed but please ask about the heart health and longevity of the parents and grandparents. My Molly )a Cavalier KCS) was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and died at age 8.

This breed is adorable. It is so sad when a beloved pet has a genetic problem and their life is cut short.
My poodle mix was 14 in October, and I want my dear little boy to live forever.

[BobandMary]

We just got a Cav about 6 weeks ago after her owner couldn't care for her anymore. Her name is Sarah and she is a delight! The vet thinks she is 9 or 10. She too has a heart murmur. She is one of the happiest, friendliest, sweetest dogs we've ever had. She has a big dog personality in a cute, little body.

[dbussone]

Originally Posted by BobandMary

We just got a Cav about 6 weeks ago after her owner couldn't care for her anymore. Her name is Sarah and she is a delight! The vet thinks she is 9 or 10. She too has a heart murmur. She is one of the happiest, friendliest, sweetest dogs we've ever had. She has a big dog personality in a cute, little body.

Good for you. Sarah will be a wonderful addition to your family.

[Cisco Kid]

I am watching two today.
This on is Bella.

[Cisco Kid]

The other is Zoey

[dbussone]

Originally Posted by Cisco Kid

The other is Zoey

Don't tell Bella because I would not want to hurt her feeling - but I think Zoey has a leg up on her.

Two cute kids.

[sharoni]

Originally Posted by Cisco Kid

The other is Zoey

Cisco Kid, can I come over for a visit. I can help babysit...

[CFrance]

Originally Posted by dbussone

Don't tell Bella because I would not want to hurt her feeling - but I think Zoey has a leg up on her.

Two cute kids.

Any particular reason, DB?

I want them both.

[dbussone]

Originally Posted by CFrance

Any particular reason, DB?

I want them both.

Love at first sight!

[Cisco Kid]

Zoey is the sweetheart