Nicki
Hi Simon,
I know exactly how you feel and I'm in the same boat really. I have read that F2's are more unpredictable coat-wise and also that they are more inclined to moult although I'm not sure how true that is. Nikki is also my closest breeder and I am in a dilemma about whether to go for an F2, or go with my heart and stick to an F1. I think it's probably a good idea to view more than one breeder and was hoping to go to Castle Cockapoos too but they aren't expecting any litters this year.
It's also a dilemma about the health testing. Nikki's stud is DNA tested for PRA but she doesn't do hip scoring or any other testing apart from a vet's check.
Sarah,
Just a quick update for you, after a lot of soul searching and discussion, we have decided to leave a deposit for one of Nickis pups due in July and ready for us late August, Early Sept. F1 or F2, we'll still love it the same!
We really liked Nickis setup, she had gorgeous dogs, all with a lovely manner and with plenty of her other Cockapoos roaming the streets of Newbury and Thatcham and a few owners on here that are very happy with their F2 dogs, we had to go for it. Nicki was more than happy to help, understanding of our dilemma and even offered to arrange a meeting with some of her F2s as adults in the local area!
I was still a little sceptical about not having an F1, but Nicki sent through a number of photos which won me over about an F2. In particular the picture below of Wellington, a 2 year old chocolate F2 was the arrow through the heart!
I spoke to Nicki on the phone earlier too about HIP scoring, and the only reason that she doesn't HIP score is because of advice from her vet who happens to be a lady I know well. A number of other breeders we have visited don't seem to HIP score either.
The other great thing about Nicki is that once you are on the waiting list, people lower down have to wait for you before selecting their puppy, so we are going to wait until 5-6 weeks so that we can get a much better indication of the coat type we'll end up with.
Best of luck with the search. If you need any more information, do let us know.
Hope that helps,
Simon