Pet Marked Puppies

The question has come up numerous times regarding, “What is a pet marked puppy?” The word “pet marked” in no way infers “quality”. It is used to refer to coat colour only, not structure or temperament. A very small number of breeders “cull” (kill at birth) these wonderful puppies, all due to colour! The other excuses are “non-showable” “betterment of the breed” “defective”"non-breedable” and “surplus”! The sad issue is there is absolutely nothing wrong with these puppies, but they will quote they are being “responsible”…10 years ago, those same “responsible breeders” practiced “culling” all mantles, as they too were also only “pet marked” puppies. Look where the mantles are today, in almost every harlequin breeding program and in the conformation ring. Ask breeders if they “cull” their “pet marked” puppies, their answer may change your whole view of them, but remember, sometimes it has to be done for the sake of the bitch if she is having a tough time rearing her pups or if there are deaf or blind pups in the litter. 

1 Response so far »

  1. 1

    Sharon Andrews said,

    July 11, 2008 @ 2:15 pm

    Hi Paul, I agree, I had 2 wonderful litters both with12 puppies, only a few were showmarked but all the rest were fantastic healthy,chunky puppies, when anyone came to choose there pup they always said that it was really hard because they were ALL so beautiful!! they have all grown up to be wonderful dogs with good conformation and more important fantastic temperaments. I keep in touch with all my puppies new owners and have been very fortunate as they all send me photos from time to time and keep me updated, the best puppy is a happy healthy puppy regardless of its colour.

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