I have a registered "pet-quality" bichon. He is a purebred and is registered, but his papers say that he cannot be bred -- rather, they say that any puppies he fathers cannot be registered.
The reason for this is that my little bichon has a "corkscrew tail." This is a very undesirable trait for this little dog -- as far as meeting the AKC standards go. And, because a reputable breeder does not want this trait to be carried any further --they ask that this little dog not be bred. This would only cause more Bichons to have this nonstandard trait.
Good breeders have litters and often some little pups in these litters will have faults that do not meet the standards of the breed. They are purebred, beautiful, healthy little pups, and they make very loveable little pets. But they are considered pet quality (and sell for less) and cannot be shown (in the larger more important shows), and they should not be bred
******** Both of my bichons parent's are beautiful show dogs who have won many shows. But, here came this little pup with a "corkscrew tail." He must have gotten that gene from his great grandfather or something. Otherwise, he is a perfect example of the bichon breed.
All reputable breeders strive to meet the highest standards of a breed. When they are successful, they have a wonderful little pup that can be shown and bred. When a little puppy doesn't meet the standards of a breed, you get a wonderful little pet-quality puppy that is just as happy, healthy, and loveable as the others.
Since most of us don't show or breed (and we neuter our pets), we should be very happy with a pet-quality little dog. Often, their faults can't even be detected by anyone but an expert. And, of course, out little pet-quality pups don't cost as much.
My little Yorkie is pet quality --and I don't have a clue why. He looks like a perfect little Yorkie to me. But, when you read the AKC standards for the breed, he must have some little thing that doesn't meet the standard. Maybe his ears are too big - who knows!
Anyway -- I believe it is very important and responsible to differentiate between "show quality" and "pet-quality" when you raise any breed of dog. This is what maintains the high quality of the different breeds.
Carol Jean |