When a breeder sells a puppy as Pet Quality then you should consider it at that. It is not sold for breeding. Even in a litter of outstanding puppies, most are pet quality. A few are show quality, and even fewer are breeding quality. Only the very best of any breed should be considered as breeding quality.
Most breeders carefully evaluate a litter, socialise, grade, and place puppies accordingly.
If they say that a particular puppy will not be right for your situation, believe them. This is to help protect the breed. Spayed and neutered dogs make better family companions and their chances of some cancers are reduced. We at SoftMaple have been active in showing and breeding pure bred dogs since 1979. Active in Curly Coated Retrievers since 1993.