Testimonials

Since I became an assured breeder of English Springer Spaniels’ I have made many friends with interests in these dogs. People have purchased pups from me and other people have seen me and my dogs at various shoots and beats around the local area.

In addition to success in the field, our dogs have also gone on to work in other roles such as the Police Force, Mountain Rescue, Lowland Rescue and Off Shore Rescue.

I appreciate comments and feedback as this helps me to plan my forward thinking and activities. I will published below any emails and letters that I receive but will remove any addresses to protect the persons privacy.

Latest Testimonials:

From our first contact enquiring about a future litter, Steve’s overriding commitment to finding suitable owners and  homes for his pups was obvious. The questionnaire, the  first meeting and visit to Steve’s home all inspired confidence that he was a very experienced and dedicated breeder who loves his dogs. It was a privilege to receive his approval to have a pup.
When the puppies were born we received lots of pictures and progress reports, and were able to visit when they were 5 weeks old. An added bonus as we live locally, was bumping into Steve from time to time and being able to see live pictures on his phone, as he has a live feed to keep a watchful eye.
When I collected the Pup there was lots of information along with a puppy ‘Starter Pack’.
Two weeks down the road, he has settled in perfectly. Eating and sleeping well and being a proper confident mad puppy in between times. I could not be happier with him.
I couldn’t recommend Steve more highly.

L Sharp
March 2019

As first-time pup owners, we spent many hours on-line and specifically the Kennel Club website, researching the working-type Cocker Spaniel breed and just as importantly, the Assured Breeders available. It was vitally important to us that we chose a breeder in whom we could have the utmost confidence.

Our investigations led us to Steven and Helen Rogers at Tagkai Gundogs, and having reviewed their excellent website and testimonials we approached Steven with an initial email enquiry. Fortunately for us, at the time of our enquiry Cara was approaching the end of her pregnancy and there were places available for pups from her litter.

Steven sent us a comprehensive questionnaire, designed to determine whether we would be likely to meet the very specific criteria that would make us suitable owners for one of his pups. He takes great care to ensure that you not only understand the specific needs of the breed, but also that your domestic and employment commitments will allow you to meet those needs. We were most impressed by this approach as it demonstrates just how much Steven cares for the welfare of his dogs and their offspring.

Successful completion of the questionnaire led to us visiting Steven for a face-to-face meeting and an opportunity to meet his dogs and view his facilities, which are both immaculate and well thought out. Lovely Cara had given birth to her pups a few days prior to our visit so we were afforded the opportunity to meet her and view the pups. All Steven’s dogs are so friendly, happy and good natured and this gave us the utmost confidence that we had located the right breeder.

From this point onwards, Steven sent us weekly text and photo ‘pupdates’ by email. These proved to be a Tuesday morning highlight for us and our families as we watched them develop, affording us a connection to mother and pups that we might not otherwise have had. We counted down the weeks and when the pups were six weeks old, we made the return trip to choose our pup from a choice of three. This was no easy task as there was nothing to choose between them – they were all bold, confident and super friendly although one in particular ‘latched on’ and wouldn’t leave. This was our pup, ‘Tagkai Golden Snitch’ also known as ‘Wilbur’.

We collected Wilbur at eight weeks old. Steven gave a thorough ‘handover’ including the very comprehensive documentation wallet, advice on the journey home and initial settling-in and on-going care. Steven also provided a bag of food and a cuddly toy for the pup. On the morning of collection, we also received email correspondence from both the microchip provider and Kennel Club Insurance – very organised and efficient.

Wilbur was very calm on our two hour journey home and slept for most of it. Incredibly, he settled in immediately, with an un-interrupted first night and a superb appetite. He’s now been with us for ten days and ‘has his feet under the table’. He knew his name and was’ retrieving’ a rolled up sock / puppy tennis ball and releasing with a soft mouth on day one! Thanks to the care that Steven and Helen take with socialisation during the early weeks, he appears to be unfazed by anything that we have shown him and he is therefore proving to be a very confident, well balanced and happy little pup. We’re looking forward to many happy, active years together and it’s fair to say he’s changed our lives for the better – we absolutely love him!

We can’t recommend Tagkai Gundogs highly enough and they will be our first port of call when the time comes to introduce a second pup to our home.

S & C Wardle
March 2019

At the end of 2018 we lost our cocker spaniel Stanley and knew life would never be the same again but realised one day that we would need a new  companion. After we grieved I decided to register for the kennel club website to look for our new addition.

We found two very reputable breeders in Cumbria who we planned to visit and meet the gang.

When the litters were advertised I contacted Steve via email to enquire about his litter. He responded with a very detailed questionnaire, I completed this and returned to him with photos of Stanley. Shortly after he contacted me back and invited us to meet him at his home. He makes a great coffee!! We spent time talking about dogs and responsibilities of being a dog owner and then we met Cara the puppies mum, we knew by then this was the place we wanted to get our new companion from!!
Steve is a very responsible dog owner and provides a loving caring home for his own dogs and their puppies.
As the puppies were only two weeks old we were invited back to choose our little man at 6 weeks.

We chose Ernie! He is absolutely perfect!!! On collection Steve and his wife provided extensive information and a goodie bag for Ernie. All pups are fully wormed, flead, vet checked, microchipped and registered with the kennel club and are hereditary clear of PRA and FN .

He has only been home a short while (a week) but is fitting in perfectly ! He’s full of life and energy and is just what we needed. Words cannot express how thankful we are to be given one of Steve’s puppies.

If you want  the best make sure you meet Steve and his gang !!”

D Cassidy
March 2019

We bought and took home, our beautiful 8 week old working cocker, Lyra, from Steve in May 2018.

I had spent a number of months researching reputable breeders. Based on reviews, Steve clearly had a good reputation. When I got in touch initially, Steve sent a questionnaire for me to complete, to help him identify whether I was a good enough owner for one of his pups. I absolutely loved this, and agree it’s precisely as it should be. All dogs deserve this level of scrutiny, but sadly many breeders don’t bother. Working cocker spaniels have very specific needs, being utterly loving, sensitive and loyal, plus adorably inquisitive and energetic! They are incredibly easy to train, but they do like to think it was THEIR idea to perform a task, not yours! It’s vital people understand their needs so the dog has the opportunity to thrive. I include this detail in my review because I personally consider it just as important as Steve does. If you want one of his dogs, don’t expect him to respond to ‘cute puppy’ requests!

Despite my experience already owning spaniels, including a working cocker, I still set about this questionnaire nervously, and spent a good couple of hours completing it! I wanted to be sure I made the best impression so I could earn one of Steve’s dogs. Just because you pay for a pup – doesn’t mean you earn it 🙂

On receiving the questionnaire, Steve invited us to his home to meet him and pregnant bitch Shannon. This was another opportunity for each one of us to be sure we were happy with the other.

Steve keeps the dogs in an immaculately clean outside unit. The dogs are clearly happy and well cared for. Take some time to review his photos out in the field with his dogs.

Once all agreed, Steve sends you weekly updates and pictures of the pups from birth – this is AWESOME!

We chose our pup at 5 weeks old. Having paid our deposit first, we had first choice. This was such a challenge as they were all absolutely gorgeous! We had wanted a chocolate and tan bitch, of which there were 5 beauties! There was also a beautiful fox-red bitch which threw me because she was gorgeous too! They’re too young at that age to tell their individual personality, and all were confident cute little pups, so we narrowed down by markings, and then finally by the one that truly seemed most interested in us (or at least stayed awake the longest!) She was our ‘Lyra’. Lyra was given a lilac collar, and from that point on I was able to scrutinise the weekly update photos to find her 🙂

When we picked her up Steve provided a thorough handover, and a cute ‘starter bag’ complete with food for a few days, a cuddly toy and relevant information.

Lyra is now 7 months old (sorry Steve for taking so long to do this review!) She is precisely the girl I hoped she would be, to fit in with my 13 and 3 year old spaniels. She has all the inquisitive energy of a typical worker, but is also a chilled out cuddler! She is super intelligent and picking up lots of skill; she’s already in the ‘Silver’ Good citizen dog class. She is also BEAUTIFUL! And we all love her so much – she’s the perfect addition to our family.

Sue
October 2018

Tagkai and Steve were recommended to me by a colleague in Mountain Rescue who already has one of his dogs.

An initial email to Steve showing our interest in one of his pups led to a detailed questionnaire about our lifestyle and activities and, our planned life for the pup.

Having cleared this first hurdle we were then invited to visit Steve and underwent a face to face ‘interview’ before we even got to see one of his dogs.

This process demonstrated to us the care that Steve takes in placing his dogs in a suitable home. At this stage we started the wait for the next available litter.

As soon as Kelly became pregnant Steve kept us updated at regular intervals even including a picture of the scan!

Once the pups were born we were sent weekly pictures and updates on health and progress of the litter.

On collection Steve gave us detailed information on diet and exercise and gave us a commitment that we could speak to him at any time in the future if we needed any help.

Jack came microchipped, wormed and Kennel Club registered and had a take home pack of food and a cuddly toy!

Now at home, Jack has settled in very quickly and is establishing himself as one of the family! He is lively, friendly, inquisitive and is keeping our 10 year old Labrador on his toes!

The whole experience with Steve has been positive and reassuring and has given us the confidence that we have been dealing with someone whose number one priority is his dogs!

I would have no hesitation in recommending Steve to anyone looking for a Springer or Cocker!

S R Reade
June 2018

Finding Steve especially so close to home has made welcoming a new puppy to the home a safe, reassuring and above all professional experience from the very first contact we had with him. He really cares about where and to who the puppies are going home with, and having visited and seen them all his dogs are so cared for and respected in a family environment to have the best start they can.We have now had our cocker spaniel pup Bree home now for two weeks and she has already shown to be friendly, full of love and eager to please, and we believe its all because of the care, time and dedication that Steve and his family gave them and her mother Shannon while she was with them. Knowing that with any enquiries Steve will be approachable, genuine and able to give advice and guidance has been such a help throughout the whole process, which is clearly carefully and precisely thought out to make sure the pup has the best possible home, even sending her with her own starter pack with essentials, information packs and a toy has shown that the pup always comes first. The weekly “pupdates” from when she was born was something we all always looked forward to, making us feel we were really getting to know her. We were a little nervous at first especially there are so many stories now about unhealthy pups and irresponsible breeders, but we are absolutely over the moon to have found Tagkai Gundogs and have someone like Steve to depend on. We would all like to thank him and and would recommend him above anyone else in a heartbeat.

The Johnson family
June 2018

Hi Steve. Below is the testimonial. Hope it’s ok. Thanks again for all your help through this and you will definitely be seeing us again. Thanks and take care.

I recently purchased my 2nd puppy from Tagkai gundogs. I purchased the first 7 years ago and she is perfect.

When we decided to get another one I never even considered going any where else. I contacted Steve about a year before I wanted a puppy so that I could go on the waiting list and ensure that I got a puppy from the litter that year.

As with my first experience Steve could not be more helpful. He is able to answer any questions (no matter how silly they may seem). He has such an amazing knowledge of the breed and his passion for why he does shines through.

Steve keeps you involved and updated right from when the dog comes into season right through the pregnancy, birth and the early weeks of the puppy’s life. He sends regular pictures and updates and is really helpful when you visit him to choose your pup.

Although it wasn’t the first time I had visited Steve I am still amazed by the facilities and pups/dogs that are there. Steve clearly loves all his dog and their care and well-being come before everything else.

Steve offers his help and advice when you go and collect your pup which was great both Steve and Helen clearly have a strong bond with the pups and they are well socialised/used to being handled when you bring them home.

We have now had our pup for over a week and she is brilliant. She is fit and healthy and has a lovely nature and an inquisitive mind. She has bonded well with our other dog and the children.

I could not recommend Steve highly enough I would never get a springer spaniel from anyone else his dogs are amazing.

Sarah
May 2018

Harley has grown up into a gorgeous family dog although, he is being “gun dog trained” so positive obedience under way. You really have provided us with a perfect “blank canvas” to train and Harley is turning out into an ideal companion.

We were most impressed with your informative process from our initial point of contact right through to collecting Harley, who has settled extremely well, as indeed you promised!

Harley has become a water baby having introduced him to the beach at Sandbanks, Poole at an early age and he now finds any excuse to bath in water, whether its a muddy puddle or not!

Not a day passes by without someone commenting on what a fine looking dog Harley is and a fantastic colour. We are so pleased to have met you both and thank you for your professional approach to being a responsible breeder. We would certainly recommend you to anyone looking for a perfect spaniel.

Hope to see you again with Harley sometime in the future.

Simon and Karen
September 2017

When we first contacted Steve Rogers in the Spring of 2016, we were impressed by the professionalism of his website. Having made contact, we were sent an extensive questionnaire which, we felt assured, showed a meticulous caring attitude to both dogs and prospective owners.

Having filled in the questionnaire satisfactorily, we then visited in August 2016 for an interview and to meet the prospective dam and an existing litter. All the dogs and puppies were well cared for, healthy and lively. We have owned Springer Spaniels for over 40 years and felt that Steve had a complete understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of owning a Springer. We put our names down for a litter planned for October/November 2016 and, as we did so, we expressed a preference for a liver and white bitch. Steve assured us that, should we not find a puppy to meet our preference from the litter, he would refund our money straight away.

We were kept informed as the dam was served and when the litter was whelped, we were sent photos. We were delighted to find that there were two liver and white bitches. Weekly photo updates allowed us to make a preliminary selection and we watched their progress with rising excitement and expectation.

Because we had put our names down early, we had the pick of the litter and seeing them all together confirmed our choice. All the puppies were healthy, excited and boisterous. Having made our choice, Steve took us through all the extensive health testing and certification and gave lots of advice on feeding, training etc. When we collected Rowan in early January 2017, we were presented with all the necessary certification, temporary KC insurance, food, toys etc. and as we left, it was obvious that Steve really cared for his puppies.

The journey from deciding to have another puppy to taking her home took about 10 months. And 3 visits to Cumbria from Leicestershire. All through this process, our confidence in Steve Rogers grew. This was no instant purchase; Steve would never have allowed that and, indeed, turned away a number of prospective buyers for puppies from this litter.

We now have a 5 month old, extremely active, inquisitive and adventurous Springer Spaniel who seems to have no fear, boundless energy and confidence and is much admired.

At this time when we hear so much about puppy farms unhealthy dogs and disreputable dealers, all through this process Steve Rogers impressed us with his professionalism and his caring attitude. He is a breeder we would heartily recommend to everyone looking for the highest quality of service.

Jim and Marea Roberts 
April 2017

Lynn and I just wanted to say thank for the very comprehensive handover yesterday and for letting us have one of your wonderful pups.

I would like to say for the record that from our first contact with you until picking Nipper up you have been an absolutely pleasure to deal with and your kennels are a credit to you. Your dogs are in prime condition and the have great temperaments.

Your communication has been first class and this has made such a difference with us being so far away from you.

Nipper has settled in very quickly and is such an intelligent, happy well adjusted pup. We will keep in touch.

Lynn and Andy Hugget
27th March 2017

Just a note to say a sincere thanks for letting us bring one of your pups into our family. Ernie, our Cocker Spaniel, has settled in brilliantly after just one day at home. Full of life, intelligence and extremely friendly with everyone he has met…..including the vet! Toilet training is going well and its very clear he is a smart, quick learner.

From the first visit we were certain we had made the right choice in both breed and breeder. Steve’s knowledge and experience was very reassuring for us and all his dogs are a testament to him.

Allan Kay
25th March 2017

Sadly 2016 ended on a low for us as we lost our much loved 8 year old Springer to Leukaemia in early December which left our  8 month old Springer puppy, Ella, totally lost.

Christmas was looming so we weren’t quite sure what to do. Our previous three dogs had all been rescue dogs so we registered with various Springer rescue organisations but soon realised finding a young companion for Ella wasn’t likely to happen quickly so we began looking for at Kennel Club registered puppies.

We did lots of research and on New Year’s Eve (we stayed in as didn’t want to go out and leave Ella home alone!) I sent an email to enquire about the last puppy available in the latest Tagkai litter. Amazingly someone else was also on their emails on New Years Eve (!) so our conversation began and I filled in my application form and arranged to go for my ‘cuppa’ to be vetted to see if we would be an ok family for Takgai Gypsy to live with. I was so impressed with the recruitment of new families for these precious puppies and have gone on to tell so many people since.

Fortunately for us, we were ‘approved’ and with great joy and delight ‘Gypsy’ came home with us (including her personalised goodie bag including lots of useful information and a cuddly toy, bless)  during the first week of January.

Within 24 hours  Ella and ‘Gypsy’ became the best of friends sharing the same bed and their food bowls.  She was well socialised and has an amazing personality, she clearly had great parents.

So our new family unit began in January and has brought us amazing joy ever since as we watch her grow and develop but above all has great fun and is much loved. Thank you so much and Happy 2017

Gillian from Yorkshire
16th February 2017

We collected Tagkai ‘Dice’ or “Lily” from Steve and Helen, this morning! Having lost our very much loved Springer earlier this year, having had her for nine loving years. We weren’t sure which path to follow, as our last Springer was a rescue dog, and we thought maybe that would be repeated. But having considered all the options and alternatives, we decided KC Registered and Pedigree was the way forward! We found Steve through the Kennel Club Site and KC Assured too. We made contact, successfully completed the application process and had several telephone conversations before a trip up. On arrival we were made most welcome by Steve and Helen, and he didn’t mind one bit that we had the extended family with us too! We were introduced to Steve’s considerable canine family, all of which were in fantastic health and clearly very happy and well cared for in superb surroundings, very comforting! And I’m pleased to say we appeared to come up to scratch through Steve’s quite proper vetting process! We were introduced and ‘Lily’ appeared to choose us! A short (didn’t feel it!) wait of three weeks passed by, with regular photographs from Steve, which was lovely to see the progress of the pups, and we went up today to collect ‘Lily’, as the day comes to a close, it is clear ‘Lily’ is a healthy, loving, if not sleepy, little dog, she has settled quickly, which is testament to her upbringing with Steve, we look forward to many many years together, and just wanted to say thanks to Steve and Helen for allowing us this opportunity! Highly recommended people who clearly know there onions! As well as their Springers and Cockers! Dedicated people who not only love their dogs but treat the role very seriously too! Thanks! And all the very best for the New Year!

Tony, Zoe, Ton and Lily! X
31st December 2016

Right from our first meeting and visit last year we felt we were in the right place to get our first springer. It’s clear to see how much pride you take in raising amazing & healthy dogs.

As first time puppy buyers you’ve always responded quickly to our endless and ridiculous (no doubt!) questions and made us feel confident we’re doing the right thing. I especially welcomed your upfront honesty throughout the whole process, it’s always great to meet someone who’ll cut through the bullshit, especially in this age of Internet dog forums….

The weekly Friday email update became the thing of legend around both our workplaces, our colleagues all frantically gathering around our iPhones to see pictures of the pups and hear how they were getting on.

Our vet was thoroughly impressed with all the medical history and steps taken to give us a healthy pup. She said to pass on her praise. Every experienced working dog owner we’ve met has complimented us on him. My favourite was from a wise, earthy looking old farmer, who after a brief inspection and lots of licks, proclaimed ‘aye, he’s got a good dock that one, good lad.’

Alan is approaching 13 weeks now and he’s already our little superstar. He’s friendly, ridiculously sharp & keen to please. We couldn’t ask for more. Thanks again.

Gary and Gillian
15th September 2016

After a long wait for the right time to get a dog my partner and I decided that this year was the right time and embarked on the journey to find our first dog. After a lot of research I came across Steve and Helen and I’m so glad we found them. I was so impressed for how concerned they were about the welfare of their puppies when they went to their new homes and was very happy to be allowed to meet Thai and go through all the paperwork and health information before the pups were even born. Despite this being our first dog, we both felt very supported and could and still can ask any questions at any times if we are worried about anything. The weekly updates were lovely and I always looked forward to Friday mornings for the photos to come through and seem them grow and develop. Boots has been with us for 5 days now and has been a star. He settled straight in, knows his name already and his toilet training is coming on faster than I ever imagined. He even put himself to bed last night! I couldn’t recommend Steve and Helen more highly and am so pleased that they allowed us to have one of their pups.
Abi Stone
17th August 2016

We can’t rate Steve and Helen as breeders highly enough. From the moment we both decided to add another dog to our ever growing pack. They have not only been extremely professional but they are friendly to boot. The whole process from meeting them, Thai the Dam and their other dogs. We couldn’t have been anymore impressed, all their dogs were healthy, keen and well cared for and as soon as Steve spoke we heard how passionate and knowledgable he was about the Springer Spaniel breed. That was when we knew we had found our “perfect” breeder. Living in the Isle Of Man and having the Irish Sea between us getting our weekly updates regarding our little boys progress was welcomed and when it came to collecting him Steve went above and beyond meeting me in Heysham. Making the journey less painful for myself and our boy. Odin our little boy is now been home 5 days and what a character he is, he’s bright, inquisitive and showing the makings of being an excellent working gun-dog.
Jason & Nicola Chadwick Isle Of Man
15th August 2016

I feel extremely lucky to have found Steve when I did. We have had our new member of the family for 3 weeks now and we couldn’t be happier. From the moment of first contact to bringing our puppy home, Steve and his family were very professional and welcoming. We were kept updated on our puppies progress with weekly emails and Steve very kindly allowed us to visit regularly before the day came to bring Maddie home. All of his dogs are well cared for and he goes above and beyond to endsure the welfare of every puppy sold. I do not honestly think we could have found a better breeder. Maddie has already brought us so much joy and laughter we could not imagine life without her now. Thank you Steve.
Jane Fielding
14th June 2016

We just wanted to say how pleased we are with Willow. We’ve had Willow, our working cocker for 3 weeks and she has settled into the family really well. The information you provided us with prior to us getting her and the information pack you put together for all your puppies has been invaluable. Our vet commented that we had obviously chosen a very good breeder, who was thorough in their vetting process of potential new owners and in providing as much information as possible for when the puppies are taken to their new homes. You and Helen take great pride in your dogs and you can see how much you love and care for each of them. I would not hesitate in recommending you to any potential owners looking for either a Working Cocker or English Springer. Thanks again.
Julie and Matthew Jones
12th June 2016

Having just met and purchased a cocker pup from Steven and Helen Rogers I couldn’t recommend them enough. Our new addition is just want you want from a quality breeder. Fit, well, healthy, reared with love and care in a clean well thought out environment. Steven and Helen cover all the small details that many people try and skip. Fully detailed information was gained on rearing our new addition, including, feeding, inoculations, and puppy pack. Buying a quality pup that is already hereditary clear of PRA and FN, takes way the cost, time, and worry of your pup passing these tests is underestimated. We cannot thank Steven and Helen enough.
Ian Mitchell
25th May 2016

Gizmo our new addition from Steve at Tagkai is on day 7 with us in his new home and has been house trained with no accidents for two days. Gizmo is clever and has easily fit into our family life. Steve has helped us choose the breed for us and has been there for frequent visits to meet Puppy’s Mum to help our daughter overcome here fear of dogs ,within two visits to Steve’s house or daughter was feeling confident about gaining a puppy. On visits she would have a compiled list of questions that Steve would spend time to answer fully for her. We were impressed with all of Steve’s dogs and how clean and tidy the kennels were. All dogs were happy and only had eyes for Steve. Upon meeting our Puppy for the first time we were given advise on handling and were welcome back for additional visits before collection day. The starter pack provided by Steve has been a great help and we are enjoying every minute with our new addition.
Claire
30th December 2015

We first went to meet Steven & Helen in May 2015 when Tan was just pregnant. We were extremely impressed with the way Steven works and looks after all his dogs . Everywhere is immaculately clean & the dogs are so well trained and clearly very happy.
It is evident that we were ‘chosen’ to have one of the cocker spaniels puppies rather than the other way round !, which is great and how it should be.

Once the puppies were born we received lots of photographs every week and were desperate to receive the ‘Friday email ‘ each week to see how they had changed.

We went and chose our puppy ‘Stanley’ when he was about 6 weeks old which was a very difficult choice as they were all so lovely and then he came home at 8 weeks .

Stanley settled into our home instantly although our 15.5 yr old Welsh Springer ‘Archie’ had a bit of a shock at first ! but they get along fine and Archie has been very good at putting him in his place , in a gentle way.

Stanley is a joy to us all and it is evident from the way he is developing and learning that his breeding line is fantastic as even at 19 weeks his recall to voice command or whistle is brilliant.
Liz & Jon Hettle
8th November 2015

We highly recommend Steven and certainly wouldn’t go anywhere else for another dog. I first became aware of Steve and Tagkai Kennels when I contacted him to organise some one-one training for me and my Cocker Spaniel, Loki. After spending an informative hour up on Birkrigg Common with him to say I was impressed is an understatement. He was just what I was looking for, knowledgeable, professional and watching him with his dogs makes you realise you are dealing with a top set up. I also came away enthused and couldn’t wait to start training with Loki the things we had been through.

I asked him about puppies and he discussed how he ‘vets people’, the set up at the kennels, the constant contact during pregancy, after birth and beyond. So when I was after another dog Tagkai was my first thought.

Myself and my family have been nothing impressed with everything. Steve and Helen are extremely welcoming, always offering a brew when you go round. The quality of the kennels and his dogs, breeds pure confidence that you aren’t just buying a fluffy, cute puppy (which they are!!) but a dog with generations of and bags of quality and potential.

Once we picked our pup we literally couldn’t wait to pick him up, the pictures that you get emailed every Friday were a real highlight. I’m writing this after having Blaze for 3 weeks now and he brings nothing but happiness. His toilet training was a doddle, he has NEVER messed his pen. Bed time routine is out of this world. he goes in his pen when we go to bed, and you never hear a peep from him until morning. Even when you take hime out for toilet during the night.

He picked his name up and responded to it within days, sits on command, sits when he wants to go through a door……I could go on!!

Just can’t wait now until he has had his final jabs and he can come out with me and Loki for adventures.
TagKai Gundogs customer
10th September 2015

We have just collected our cocker spaniel puppy, Ralph from TagKai. Steven and Helen have been helpful and professional throughout the process. They kept in touch with weekly updates and photos of the pups. Steven was on hand to answer any questions…however small to make sure that we were prepared for our new arrival and has been since! We were impressed with the standard and cleanliness of the kennels when we went to visit the puppies…outstanding! Our family are over the moon with our new puppy and the progress that he is making in such a short space of time. It is clear that this is due to him having such a great start in life and the time and effort that Steven and Helen puts in with the pups in their early days. We would highly recommend TagKai to anyone looking for happy and healthy spaniel pups. A huge thank you to Steven and Helen.
Caroline and Steven, Seaton, Cumbria
8th September 2015

Finally, we could collect Lotti, our cocker spaniel puppy, and welcome her into our family. She is absolutely delightful and we can’t thank Steven and Helen enough for their support and guidance throughout the whole process. The set up at Tagkai Gundogs is so professional – the kennels are immaculate, the dogs are in exceptional condition and the care given to each one of them is heart warming to see, they are healthy and happy. As owners of a springer spaniel we are not new to the world of dog breeders but we have been so impressed by Helen and Steven’s attention to detail – from weekly updates, health checks and legal documentation to advice about settling a new puppy into a home with an established dog. Lotti has amazed us with her intelligence and arrived almost house trained, incredible for such a young puppy. She has clearly benefitted from an excellent bloodline and the expertise of her breeders. We would highly recommend Tagkai Gundogs to anyone looking to get a spaniel puppy… High quality dogs from a high quality home!! Thank you both so much!
Caroline and Craig
August 2015

We have now been to collect our 8 week old Cocker Spaniel who we have named Lily. This comes after visiting Steven at Tagkai to see all the puppies at 3 weeks and to choose one at 6 weeks. Each week we have had email updates and photo’s from Steven who is a diligent, professional and friendly Dog Breeder. We have been very impressed with his care and attention to detail regarding the dogs welfare and information he gives to the prospective owners. He has several Springer and Cocker spaniels all of which, though excited to see people, don’t bark and are very well trained. We love our young puppy who has adjusted very quickly to her new surroundings and we have no hesitation in recommending Steven and Tagkai as a great Kennel Club Assured breeder. Get your name down early if you want a pup!
Rob and Zoe from Grasmere
24th August 2015

Oscar is now almost Eleven months old, and he has brought great joy into our lives, he is intelligent and smart, he is loving and a great companion, his abilities to learn and to please are quite remarkable. He has a great time with us and our older (almost 13) Labrador Kite who he loves and sometimes pesters ~ just as a healthy and happy pup should do. We wont be working Oscar, as has been the case with our previous dogs, but his breeding and obvious clear potential show that he would be a very, very capable working dog, all we really expect from him is a willingness to please, and that is evident in huge amounts, he returns to the whistle on command, retrieves and sits/waits on command, and goes ‘away’ or ‘back’ on command, he is what we would call biddable, he is also now developing a great ‘nose’ and indeed manages to root out all manner of items on any of his daily walks. In short he is a star and we wouldn’t be without him.
Rog & Gill
14th May 2015

Sasha our new Springer Spaniel puppy has now been in her new home for a week and has settled in really well. As a family we cannot thank you enough for allowing us to purchase one of Teal & Jock’s fantastic litter. Your facilities and the way that you breed Spaniels is a credit to not only the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme but the Spaniel Breed itself. Our vet was really impressed with the conformation of Sasha and the fact that both her parents were fully health tested in accordance with the Springer Spaniel Breed and the quality of the the new owner paperwork verifying everything was in order. Thanks once again and it is easy to see why TagKai Kennels are developing such a good name throughout the United Kingdom and we cannot recommend you highly enough.
Irene and Scott
5th February 2015

 We recently got a beautiful springer puppy from Steven and Helen at Tagkai gundogs, after a visit to meet Steven ,and to look at his kennel set up a few months previously which is superb, clean and tidy. We decided Tagkia Gundogs was the breeder for us. The dogs are very well cared for ,and you can see they are loved. Steven kept us fully informed from mating to the day we could pick our puppy up with emails and photos,We were really made to feel part of her first 8 weeks. Steven has given us great advice on collection on how to look after her as a puppy. She is a super wee thing and has brought so much happiness to our home. Our puppy is going to go back for training .We could not recommend Steve and Helen enough,and highly recommend if you are looking for a springer. We hope to stay in touch for many years to come.
Kenny, Sue and Kids
26th January 2015

Gillian bought Oscar a week ago 29/08/14, he is a stunning little dog who has already blended into our environment, he even manages to be almost completely ‘clean’ in the house! Steve and Helen, the quality of your breeding programme, loving attitude and care towards your dogs is nothing short of outstanding. We are thrilled with Oscar and look forward to many years together with him ~ he is bright, intelligent, very friendly and already keen to please. Thank you so much again.
Gillian & Roger
5th September 2013

 I bought Watson, a cocker, form Steve in September. He gave a lot of advice and help for the future with my new pup. We traveled home, three and half hours, with no trouble and he settled in well – quickly adapting to his new surroundings. He makes friends with dogs and people easily as he really likes them all! When my vet saw him she said that you could tell a well bred pup. And that’s what I think too when I compare him to the other cockers I see. He is eager to please (although sometimes cheeky) and just loves to be with people. I collected him at nine weeks old and just a few weeks later he knew his toys by name! So now he can ‘find’ duck duck or any other that I ask for. He very good when going in the woods his nose is working all the time! I’m looking forward to the future with him.
Elaine
5th December 2013

Hi Steve and Helen, I would like to thank you both once again for breeding another superb springer spaniel pup which of course I am delighted with. Nell is coming along very nicely and shows a lot of potential in play training, early days but she is a very confident pup. She will be a good working companion for my other spaniels as I have no doubt she will have the ability in abundance when I start her training. Once again thank you both for a very well turned out pup from excellent breeding lines.
Malcolm
24th October 2013

It is now a month since we collected our Toby our Springer pup from TagKai. He was a little late joining us as we were on holiday and Steve agreed to keep him for a few extra days until we were home. From day one it was clear that we had made the right choice in going to Tagkai for our pup; Toby is a wonderful little dog anxious to please and most of all love his new family. When we were choosing which breed of dog, many friends warned us not to take on a Springer warning of wild canine behaviour, but now as Toby grows and surprises each day with his intelligence and kind nature, they just say ‘well that’s because you got him from a top breeder’. We would like to say to Steve and anyone else reading this that in our opinion we could not have done better. From the day Steve agreed to sell us one of his puppies we had a steady stream of photos and information so that we could follow Toby’s progress On the day of collection we were given the opportunity to ask anything we wished and provided with a puppy pack with recommended products and advice, and in those first few days when Toby was upset from the move Steve was there with good advice and reassurance.
John and Kate, Nottinghamshire
21st October 2013

We collected our puppy Sheelin on 16th March 2013. Steve was fantastic in giving excellent advice on how to continue with the training he had already started with the pups. That advice has changed the way we have worked with Sheelin , our fifth spaniel in 35 years. Thanks to Steve’s help and advice which we have followed she is now, at 6 months, showing signs of being a truly excellent working dog and a fabulous family pet. Thanks Steve your dogs are the best!
Tim
30th July 2013

This was the second time I have travelled six and a half hours each way to collect a pup from Steve. Need I say more? No, but I will! Right from the initial inquiry, Steve provided ample information and promptly answered any questions I had. After the pups were born we were sent regular updates, photos and videos which were immensely popular with family and friends. Throughout the entire process Steve provided a thoroughly professional service and we now have another quality dog in the family. Would I travel thirteen hours to get another pup from Steve – just give me the chance!
Graham
12th April 2013

From the first contact to collecting our puppy, Tagkai Gundogs were nothing but professional. The cleanliness and care for the dogs and behaviour of their own dogs was impressive. We enjoyed our visits with the breeder and were confident we would have a good puppy with good bloodlines to work with. Lots of advice and support provided when needed and our puppy settled in very well and is now a much treasured member of the family. The puppy is bright and responsive. Many thanks go to all at Tagkai Gundogs for all they have done to make our first puppy purchase enjoyable. We fully recommend anyone to contact you for a springer pup.
Howard & Lisa
30th July 2012

TagKai Gundogs are the most professional, caring, helpful, knowledgeable Dog Breeders in the UK in our opinion.

If you are looking (and fit Steve’s criteria) for a Working Gun Dog or even just the most rewarding pet, knowing they will be fit, healthy, loving and well rounded then TagKai Gundogs is for you. We waited many years and done much homework before deciding on TagKai for a puppy and they were truly beyond our expectations. The TagKai set up is second to none. We drove past many breeders from Glasgow to get to TagKai and will be doing so in the future.

Our clever Troy could already retrieve and find when he came to us at just 8 weeks. House trained by 9 weeks he is so obedient and loving and wants to work for you and do well. We can take no credit for this truly amazing animal as he came to us with these wonderful traits thanks to Steve and Helens tremendous efforts.

The blood line of Troy is so apparent when you see him outdoors. The help and advice you have given has made this still very young pup (only 15 weeks now) into an amazing, obedient, rewarding and have to say beautiful dog. His clever mind is not to be underestimated – Troy knows every command and can even retrieve different items by name and your order of retrieval. We text this morning to ask for advice and just 60 seconds later you have answered Steve. The after care and knowledge is tremendous. There is no scope for negativity with TagKai.

So thank you Steve and Helen for the most wonderful dog. Troy brings us such joy and pleasure and your efforts make training our Gun Dog a piece of cake! You are truly inspirational in your set up and thinking, and are the perfect breeder. Every part of the ‘puppy process’ from when we met initially to still asking for advice is a real credit to you and we are very proud to write this Testimonial, it is truly deserved.
James and Julie
20th July 2012

We wanted to write and thank you for our beloved Charlie-dog. Martin and I had been thinking about buying a puppy to train as a working dog for a number of years, but then started looking for a good breeder earlier this year. Although we hadn’t really intended to buy a puppy until September, as soon as we visited your website and saw how well you care for your dogs and that puppies were also available we knew we’d found the right breeder at the right time. We really appreciated from the start how well you kept us informed. Emails and messages were responded to super quickly, you are professional and we felt confident you were efficient at managing the business side. Every question we had was answered fully, and without making us feel like idiots for asking.

When we visited and saw the fantastic relationship you have with your dogs we were reassured you were not a production line breeder, you genuinely love your dogs and make sure they are very well cared for and trained. I was concerned that Sage would miss her pups, but you took care to ensure she was not distressed at all and that the transition was carefully planned and went smoothly.

I really like that you can see how Charlie is growing up via facebook, and that you’re still on hand to offer advice / answer questions. Actually, if you are FB friends with any of the new owners of Charlies siblings maybe you could you point them out to me so I can see how they’re doing?

Finally, we love our Charlie-dog. He is possibly the most intelligent dog in the world, bright as a button, energetic, loving, confident, does not bark (except at brooms?!), was house trained at 10 weeks, and shows every sign of being a first class gundog. He has become part of our family, and seemed delighted to be with us from the very first hour. We will always be grateful to you for helping to bring Charlie into our lives, thank you.
Pam and Martin
2nd July 2012

When we started to look for a pup, we knew what we wanted; A Springer from a working background, we had to be confident in the temperament of the bitch and we didn’t want her to be with a large commercial breeder where her role in life was purely to produce puppies for profit. We also wanted our pup to be from health tested parents. We knew that we would have to visit many breeders to find what we were looking for, and that we may have to compromise as we were probably looking for something that didn’t exist. By chance, Tagkai was the first place we visited. We never went anywhere else. We were absolutely delighted with what we saw on our first visit. All of your dogs are a credit to you, such happy, well trained dogs; we could have come home with any one of them. The facilities you have are incredibly professional, yet your dogs are still clearly very much part of the family.

Since then, we have felt as though we have been part of Breeze’s life since the day that Sage whelped. It has been great being able to visit the pups and be kept so up to date with their development by your regular updates, photo’s and videos. Breeze has settled into her new home very fast and is learning incredibly quickly. She is a really affectionate little soul and great fun to have around. To quote your website, she is a ‘well socialised, happy, bold and confident puppy who is a reflection of the time and effort given to her during their early weeks’.

We are absolutely delighted with her and also with the support and advice that you have given throughout and continue to give. We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Tagkai Gundogs and would certainly come straight to you if we were to want another pup. We are so glad we passed your test!.
Jeff and Rachel
21st June 2012

Many thanks to Steve of Tagkai gundogs. from my visit to tagkai to having my pup Steve was brilliant keeping me up to date with the pups progress and regular photos
Dice is a real quality bred bitch good breeding and well cared for. Would highly recomend Steve for a gundog pup[or pet] the bloodline is excellent and only quality sire;s used for mating. and will be keeping in touch should[WHEN] i require another working pup in the future.
Paul
16th June 2012

Sky, the six month old working cocker we bought from Steve and Helen has been with us just over a week now and has settled in to our home amazingly quickly. She learns fast and has a superb temperament and loves lots of fuss and cuddles. We visited Tagkai gundogs several times when we were considering getting our first dog – we had in mind an 8 week old pup and had lots of questions. During these visits we always received a warm welcome and no amount of questioning was too much. Whilst visiting we got to see Sky a few times and now she has become our new family member and are pleased with our choice. She has had first-class basic training from Steve and now it’s our turn to get the training – in fact she’s way ahead of us and when out on walks, it should be Sky that wears the whistle! Steve’s experience, knowledge and dedication and professionalism is second to none – we cannot recommend Tagkai highly enough.
Catherine and Richard
5th March 2012

Hi Steve and Helen, may I thank you both for the opportunity to purchase one of your puppies which I am absolutely delighted with and cannot express to highly the dedicated and professional attitude you apply to all aspects of breeding qualitiy puppies. Peppa is an absolute delight to own and the foundation preperation in the rearing process clearly shows, she bonded very quickly and is very quick to learn simple commands in a play situation. I anticipate she will be a very enthusiastic worker and easy to train. Once again I cannot praise you both enough for your dedication and would not hesitate to recommend Tagkai gundogs to anyone looking for a quality bred puppy.
Malcolm
2nd Dec 2011

 To Steve and Helen: Kathleen and I would like to thank you for our wonderful Springer Spaniel, Ella. She is 12 weeks now and is a settled, healthy and full of fun family member. I would recommend Tagkai Gundogs without hesitation, the whole process of visiting and meeting the parents, choosing our puppy, and the endless photos from Steve made the experience a joy. As we had not had a Springer before Steve’s expertise and enthusiasim helped us greatly. I feel that we can ring him if we have any questions and that we will always receive a warm welcome. Many thanks.
Gary and Kathleen
1st Nov 2011

Huge thanks to Steve and his wife, our puppy Hollie is fantastic! We visited her when she was a few weeks old, what a great set up there, the dogs are all looked after wonderfully, all very well behaved and healthy, both parents and puppies!. The parents and bloodline could be seen and we were made to feel very welcome, Steve’s knowledge was impressive as well, he is obviously a very dedicated and professional breeder. Hollie is coming on now, her training is improving everyday and the bloodline shows in how quickly she learns. We would highly recommend Tagkai to anyone looking for well bred gundogs.
Louise and Harry