Cockaliers

[Frumptastic40s]

We have been looking to get a dog, since our youngest child has just turned 7 and eldest is a teenager. We are quite busy as a family, but with 6 of us the dog would definitely get walked every day. We are looking for a small to medium sized, non-yappy dog, that doesn't need professional grooming and can live with a cat. I've been looking for a puppy since August and have done some research. From what I see online the majority of dogs seem to be from puppy farms with no health checks and very expensive.

I went to an animal rescue, and have been offered a cockalier (cavalier king charles - cross - cocker spaniel) . I really like the idea of a rescue dog, but this one has also come from a puppy farm, where the mother was in a bad state and gave birth after she was brought in. Im a bit worried about irresponsible breeding and health problems if I adopt this puppy, as I'm sure no health checks would have been done and I know cavaliers have lots of health problems anyway.

Should I adopt it, or is it a very big risk health wise, or are there no guarantees anyway going to a breeder?
Also are cockaliers good family dogs?

This dog has come from an unethical source and if you take it on you are supporting the puppy farming industry.

It is also likely to have a multitude of medical and behavioural problems. It is a very high risk way to get a dog.

Get a purebred puppy instead. From a breeder that is endorsed by their breed club, and carries out all the recommended health tests for your chosen breed.
There are plenty of people here in The Doghouse that can advise and will tell you all the red flags to look out for.

There is a very high chance the puppy will be riddled with health issues. Puppy farmers (particularly those breeding designer crosses - doodles, cockaliers, multipoos) are not known for their ethical breeding or care for animal welfare. In a worst case scenario, the dog could have all the defects of both breeds.

If you buy a puppy cockarlie, chances are you'll be buying from a less than reputable breeder. When you buy a designer dog (not a pedigree) there is a huge risk or not only buying an unhealthy dog but also getting one with an unstable temperament - which is incredibly irresponsible if you have children.

If you want the cockalier, get the rescue. At least then you won't have directly supported puppy farming.

But honestly, what you probably want is a well-bred, pedigree, miniature poodle. Robust, healthy, friendly, intelligent, loyal, good with children and low-shedding (although reasonably high grooming maintenance). Never met anyone who regretted buying a miniature poodle - there's been a few posters on Doghouse recently who have gotten them instead of doodles, and they've all been incredibly complimentary about their poodle & happy with their decision.

@CoubousAndTourmaIet
what do you suggest happens to this puppy that was born in a rescue if noone should take it on? Are you advocating that it is PTS or spend its life in a rescue?