Understanding the Categories of Puppies: Choosing the Right Companion

When it comes to buying a puppy, it’s essential to know that puppies within any breed are generally divided into three categories:

1. Show Class
   If you’re aiming to participate in dog shows, then you need a Show Class puppy. However, if your goal is to achieve significant success in exhibitions, you might want to consider purchasing an adult dog that has already proven its abilities. Until a puppy reaches 9–12 months, no one can guarantee that it will grow into a show dog.
   A Show Class puppy means that, at the time of sale, the puppy has no pronounced faults or disqualifying defects. This includes having all teeth appropriate for their age, both testicles descended in males, a correct bite, free movement, harmonious proportions, and a good temperament. The breeder evaluates these characteristics around 8 weeks of age, making an informed prediction that the puppy will likely develop into a show dog. However, no one can guarantee this with complete certainty, as many factors can affect the puppy’s development.
   For example, a bite can change due to injury or improper jaw growth, and teeth can suffer from infections or chewing on hard objects. Joints can deteriorate from inappropriate physical strain, slippery floors, or jumping from heights. Furthermore, a lack of daily socialization and show training can lead to a dog that grows timid or aggressive, making it difficult to win awards at shows, regardless of its appearance. Therefore, raising a show dog requires not just selecting a puppy with potential but also involves the daily, meticulous effort of the owner. Keep in mind, a successful show dog is not necessarily a superior breeding candidate.

2. Breed Class
   If you’re interested in breeding, a dog without disqualifying faults but with a distinct merit that you want to pass on to its offspring would be ideal. A good pedigree is crucial when selecting a puppy for breeding, as only a dog produced through thoughtful line breeding will reliably pass its qualities to its progeny.
   Both Show Class and Breed Class dogs come with a main pedigree. However, Show Class dogs may be marked “not for breeding” on the pedigree.

3. Pet Class
   If you’re simply looking for a companion and have no interest in exhibitions or breeding, then a Pet Class puppy is the right choice for you. These puppies usually have minor exterior flaws that disqualify them from shows or breeding. For example, there may be a color fault, an imperfect bite, or an undescended testicle. These imperfections do not affect the puppy’s health or ability to be a loyal friend and bring joy to their owners. Pet Class puppies are sold with a limited pedigree.

Tips for Choosing a Healthy Puppy
When choosing a puppy, pay close attention to the mother and the litter’s environment. Lactating females may lose some of their coat’s quality, but they should still be plump, healthy, and alert. The area where the puppies are kept should be clean, spacious, and well-lit. Healthy puppies should be active and playful, standing firmly on their feet and moving around confidently by two months of age.

Regardless of the class of puppy you choose—whether for shows or as a pet—the puppy should be healthy. Always ask to see all the puppies, even those that are reserved, to ensure the entire litter appears healthy, active, and energetic.

When examining a puppy, check for the following:

• Ears: Should be clean, without discharge or redness.

• Eyes: Clear, with no signs of discharge.

• Coat: Clean, thick, and silky, without bald patches.

• Skin: Free of redness, rashes, or dandruff.

• Nose: Moist without dry crusts or discharge (it may be dry and warm during sleep).

• Gums and Eye Mucous Membranes: Should be pink.

The puppy’s belly shouldn’t be too sunken or bloated, as a bloated belly could indicate worms. Also, observe the puppy’s movements—they should move freely without limping.

If you’re buying a puppy remotely, from another city or country, ask the breeder to show the puppy through a live video call, not just recorded clips. This will allow you to observe how the puppy moves, plays, and interacts with people. Ask to see all the puppies, including the one you’ve selected. Relying solely on attractive photos can lead to disappointment if the reality doesn’t match your expectations.

Even in a well-bred litter, no two puppies are exactly alike. In addition to physical traits and show potential, consider the puppy’s character, as it’s vital for future compatibility with you and your lifestyle. While stories of “our puppy chose us immediately” are common and often signal a happy outcome, disappointments are less frequently shared when impulsive decisions don’t lead to a good match.

Choose with Care
Emotions can cloud judgment. If the conditions for the puppies seem substandard, or the puppies themselves appear unhealthy, don’t let pity drive you to purchase a puppy to save it from a negligent breeder.