So the Dog Advisory Council says "Part of the council's role should be to encourage recognition among breeders that they are breeding pets, not breeding for showing, "  but  this true ? - personally speaking I would not be breeding if I did not want something from my own lines to show - if I did not show then I would not breed - it's as simple as that -so I most certainly breed for the showring - any pups that I do not keep then get sold to pet homes but I do not and never will breed soley for the pet market.

Having said all this all my dogs are  also my pets - I have to live with them 24/7 so OF COURSE temperament, health, etc etc are important considerations too ( and it's a tad insulting to imply that show breeders don't consider all these things ) but the truth is they simply would'nt be born if it was'nt for the showring !!

Yvonne

Hmm, I breed to carry on my line when I can, but I am also looking for working gundogs, so I'm afraid they might not be classified by the Advisory Council as 'pet' quality. I also show my dogs, and so look for conformation in the stud that complements my bitch. However, a nasty temperament is a big no as far as I am concerned. I wouldn't even look at a dogs pedigree if I didn't like its temperament. Even if it was the best looking, excellent working member of the breed.

Think the Advisory Council need to get their heads straight !    Puppy farmers and 'Back Yard Breeders' breed for the pet market and look where that has led :)  They are least likely to know about health testing, and are unlikely to bother even if they do