Pet Quality vs Show Quality

 

 

Often when potential puppy purchasers hear these two classifications they feel that perhaps they will be getting an inferior dog if they ask for a pet.

To a reputable breeder, the terms mean something different. It would be to the breeder's advantage if every pup were a show prospect, but that doesn't work out in percentages. It is more likely that the litter will turn out to be all pet than all show.

 

A pet has the same number of legs as the show dog, it is put together with the same number of bones, has a noise maker just under its nose, and is of GOOD HEALTH AND TEMPERAMENT just like the showdog!

So what's the big deal?

 

Different breeders will weigh "imperfection" differently.What will bother one terribly will be okay with another. This is when knowledge of the breed standard and a sound breeding program come into play. In the case of the Alaskan Malamute there are numerous areas to consider that can turn a prospective show puppy into a wonderful pet.

 

FOR EXAMPLE, A FEW AREAS TO CONSIDER ARE:

 

a) one or both testicles undescended (definetely a pet, all breeds.

b) coat length and texture

c) undesirable mismarks

d) dentition

e) eye colour, shape and set

f) overall size and proportion

g) top line, tail set, bone,feet

h) movement, coming and going, reach and drive, overall balance

i) angulation

j) head shape

k) pigmentation

 

Some breeders are not willing to make a decision on pet quality or show quality on an 8 week old puppy. If you are interested in a show puppy it is important to discuss this topic with your breeder.