There are several ways that buyers can improve the odds of purchasing and a healthy Nederlandse Kooikerhondj.  Studying these documents to formulate questions for  prospective breeders is useful.

See Breeders Code of Ethics and Best Breeding Practices

Likewise the health of close relatives is very important. Test results on siblings can be researched using the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website (www.offa.org ) by typing in a dog’s registered name, clicking on the name, and then clicking on the “vertical pedigree” options. 

Realize that while a good breeder will provide a genetic background and early environment that maximize the probability of producing healthy puppies and providing optimal feeding, socialization, and preventive medical care to the litter, it is also important for prospective owners to realize that the proper nutrition, veterinary care, preventive health care and exercise provided in the new home are also critical to developing young Kooikerhondje into healthy adults.

It is important for both parents of a litter to have their hips, eyes, and patella examined, DNA tests for ENM and vWD  performed and to be in otherwise good health.

Test results of the parents can be verified at the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website (www.offa.org ) by typing in a dog’s registered name.

Discuss other potential health issues such as polymyositis and kidney disease with your breeder.

Discuss any health guarantees provided by the breeder. Read more about this in our Health and Genetics pages.

NKCUSA maintains a directory of people actively breeding Kooikers. This is a service to the general public. See NKCUSA Breeders' List

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NKCUSA works with Rescue organizations and individuals to recover Kooikers in need of rehoming. See Rescue and Rehoming