What does Show Quality Really Mean?

So many times I have seen it posted in the description of available young.  Both Rabbits and Puppies alike.  Even I, myself, has posted it in the description.  Often times newcomers to the hobbies are asking for Show Quality.  Most commonly used by pet breeders to help boost sales.  But what does it really mean?  

All breed species have a standard.  A blueprint for breeders to work towards.  No animal is 100% correct, they all have faults, although some could be pretty darn close.  Within that standard are qualities that would prohibit the animal from winning in conformation competitions, shows.  These are Disqualifications.  Things like a foreign colored spot, eye color, percentage of color, etc.  

Any animal that does not have any physical signs of any disqualification listed within it's breed standard is considered show quality. But this does not mean the animal can be competitive when shown.

Both the above rabbits are bucks, both Tri Color.  Both are SHOW QUALITY.  Only one of them has achieved Grand Championship.  

If your new to the hobby, and looking to purchase your first show animal and see an advertisement for "show quality".  First, check out the breeder.  Do they show?  If not....walk away!  

Familiarize yourself with the breed standard before you purchase and attend a show if possible.  This would give you an opportunity to see what is being shown, what the judges are liking and what to look for when choosing your show animal.  This also gives you an opportunity to connect with several breeders and maybe even find one you like.  

Understand that show quality means it can be shown, but does not mean that it meets the standard and will win or should be bred.