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Buy from a Breeder
Never purchase a puppy from a retail outlet, pet store or raffle. The registries can give you a list of reputable breeders who have signed a code of ethics with their registry or club. (ex. United Kennel Club, American Kennel Club Foundation Stock, The Boykin Spaniel Club & Breeder's Association of America). The Internet can be a great source for locating puppies.
 Check out the Kennel
When possible, go to the breeder's home to see the housing conditions of the puppies and adults. You should be able to see the dam of the puppies, and the sire if available. Many good breeders breed out of their own line. It's not unusual for the sire to live hundreds of miles away. Do ask to see a photo of him and a copy of his pedigree. Make sure that the breeder is breeding to the current UKC, AKC Boykin Spaniel standard. One way to insure this is to buy from breeders that have show/conformation titles in the pedigree and or on the parents.
Health Checks
Make sure the sire and dam both have hip x-rays to exclude hip dysplasia,
patellas checked and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) for eyes to assure they are clear of congenital eye defects. While there is currently no test for epilepsy, do check to see if the breeder's stock is free from this problem. However, if the sire or dam has not been OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) evaluated,
Patellas checked and CERF tested... walk away. Only buy from breeders who breed responsibly. A good breeder evaluates the risks of hip dysplasia,
patellas and eye problems via such testing. Make sure
that your breeder offers you copies of all the documents to prove that the sire
and dam are checked and cleared.
Be patient
Take your time! Finding a good, healthy Boykin puppy does not happen overnight. Go to conformation shows/dog shows and field trials. Contact area breeders. Visit prospective breeders. Reputable breeders will be happy to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. But remember... quality breeders will have a waiting list for their puppies and it's not unusual for a buyer to have to wait several months or even a year for one of these quality puppies. Potential owners don't mind waiting for a quality puppy, because they know that Sunseeker Kennel breeds for quality, not quantity. Buy with your head and not with your heart.
Expect to be Interviewed by the Breeder
A good and caring breeder will have as many questions for you as you have for her/him. Much time, money and a lot of hard work will go into a well-bred litter. A quality breeder will be very concerned where any of their puppies are placed. Be prepared to answer some personal questions. If a breeder only cares about selling the pup... walk away.
Contracts
A good breeder will have contracts between you the buyer and himself. These contracts are intended to be a security for both buyer and seller. They will state things from co-ownership to spay and neuter and health issue guarantees. This is for the well being of the dog and breeding stock. Good Breeders put years into developing their line that they want to protect.
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