Show Quality vs Pet Quality: What’s the Difference?

When considering adding a Havanese to your family, you may encounter terms like “show quality” and “pet quality.” These classifications, often used by reputable breeders, can be confusing to those new to the world of dogs. Understanding the differences between show quality and pet quality, as well as what they mean to you as a prospective owner, is essential in making an informed decision.

What Is Show Quality?

A show-quality Havanese is a dog that conforms closely to the breed standard as defined by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). These dogs are bred to participate in conformation shows, where they are evaluated against the breed standard for physical characteristics, movement, temperament, and overall presentation.

Key traits of a show-quality Havanese include:

  • Physical Attributes: Precise size, coat type, color patterns, head shape, and other features that match the breed standard.
  • Gait and Movement: Correct movement that demonstrates balance and functionality.
  • Temperament: Confident, friendly, and adaptable, essential for performing well in the ring.

Show-quality Havanese are often the result of careful breeding and typically have pedigrees filled with champion dogs. However, even a dog from champion bloodlines may not always meet the criteria to be considered show quality due to minor imperfections.

What Is Pet Quality?

Pet-quality Havanese are those that may have slight deviations from the breed standard that make them unsuitable for the show ring or breeding but do not affect their health or temperament. These differences can be purely cosmetic or related to minor structural details. Examples include:

  • Slightly mismatched markings or coat colors.
  • Variances in size (slightly too large or small compared to the standard).
  • Minor dental misalignments or other non-health-affecting issues.

While these dogs are not suited for competition or breeding, they are perfect for families looking for a loving companion. Reputable breeders often place pet-quality puppies in homes with spay/neuter agreements to prevent unplanned breeding.

Why Does the Distinction Matter?

For potential owners, the distinction between show quality and pet quality helps clarify expectations and goals for owning a Havanese.

  • If You Want a Show Dog: You should expect a higher purchase price for a show-quality Havanese due to the extensive effort and investment in breeding and raising puppies that meet the breed standard. These dogs may also require specialized training and grooming to prepare for shows.
  • If You Want a Companion: A pet-quality Havanese will be more affordable and offer the same love, loyalty, and charm as a show-quality dog.

Making the Right Choice

Whether you choose a show-quality or pet-quality Havanese depends on your goals. If showing or breeding is a priority, focus on finding a breeder experienced in producing show-quality dogs. If companionship is your primary goal, a pet-quality Havanese will meet your needs perfectly without the added expenses and responsibilities associated with showing.

FAQs

Q: Can a pet-quality Havanese still participate in dog sports or activities?
A: Absolutely. Pet-quality Havanese excel in activities like obedience, agility, rally, and therapy work. These activities do not require conformation-level adherence to breed standards.

Q: Are show-quality Havanese healthier than pet-quality ones?
A: Not necessarily. Both should be bred to meet health and temperament standards. Always choose a breeder who conducts health testing on their breeding dogs.

Q: How much more does a show-quality Havanese cost?
A: Show-quality dogs can cost significantly more, ranging from $3,500 to $10,000 or more, compared to $2,500 to $5,000 for pet-quality dogs.

Q: Can a pet-quality puppy come from show-quality parents?
A: Yes. A litter from champion parents may include both show-quality and pet-quality puppies.

Q: What if I change my mind and want to show my pet-quality Havanese?
A: Speak with your breeder. Most breeders sell pet-quality puppies with limited registration, which may not allow participation in conformation shows or breeding.

Summary

The difference between show-quality and pet-quality Havanese lies in their adherence to the breed standard and suitability for conformation shows. Pet-quality Havanese make ideal companions for families and individuals, offering the same affectionate and playful temperament as their show-quality counterparts. Understanding these distinctions ensures you select a Havanese that matches your lifestyle and goals.

Sources

View the complete list of our research and reference sources.

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