| Editor’s note: The
following is a letter that was written by the ABC Standards Committee to
clarify the ABC’s position on plain boxers in the show ring. The
letter was sent to all AKC boxer judges by the AKC, and subsequently
published in AKC Judges’ Newsletter, Fall 2000, Vol. 3, Nov.
15.
A LETTER FROM THE AMERICAN
BOXER CLUB STANDARD COMMITTEE
It is our opinion that the
so-called plain Boxer (very little white) has for the last 40 years been
ignored by non-breeder Judges. Some have the mistaken idea that the lack
of white markings is to be penalized. The standard states the
"White markings should be of such distribution as to enhance the
dog’s appearance, but may not exceed one-third of the entire
coat." We are concerned that some judges have been interpreting
that to mean "MUST be of such distribution" rather than as
intended, "white markings WHEN PRESENT, SHOULD be of such
distribution." The standard goes on to describe white markings on
the head, "On the face, white may replace part of the otherwise
essential black mask and may extend in an upward path between the eyes,
but it must not be excessive, so as to detract from the Boxer
expression." Please note that a black mask is essential and they
MAY have white as described. No Boxer should be penalized for lack of
markings. The standard states "Faults – Unattractive or misplaced
white markings." Lack of white is not a
fault.
A number of good plain
Boxers shown in recent years have been able to finish, however almost
all of their wins are from breeder judges. Some breeders would prefer
the plain look, but we are asking the judging community simply to give
the plain Boxer equal consideration and to reward them if they are the
best in the ring. Many more plain Boxers would be shown if the owners
felt they had an equal chance to win. |
