Hi list, Reading this thread reminds me of the issues the Boxer world has had with judges not putting up "plain", meaning black-masked, dogs. Judges have automatically assumed that any dog that had little or no white markings on the face, chest and/or legs was a "pet" and not to be considered for placement. As a result, "show" breeders sold their plain dogs to pet homes, some of which were the best dogs in the litter. It wasn't worth trying to win with a plain - one couldn't. However, a superior quality plain, handled by a top handler could occasionally win - I had such a dog over 10 years ago that finished in 12 shows.
Thanks to the internet and lists such as this one, this controversial issue became a big topic. As a result, last year the American Boxer Club's board of directors issued a position letter to all licensed and provisional judges reminding them that according to the standard, the black mask is essential and "may" be replaced in part by white and that the only requirement for white markings is that they do not exceed 1/3 ground color. In addition, speakers(includinging myself) at judges seminars across the country have and are emphasizing this point. As a result, plain boxers are appearing in show rings in increasing numbers and are finishing their championships, some shown by owner-handlers. May I suggest that the CKCS Parent Club look into this issue and seriously consider issuing a position letter to all Cavalier licensed and provisional judges that according to the standard trimming is not allowed and that the breed should not be hand stacked on the ground but rather free baited. The letter could go on to say that 1) judges should either request that handlers "on the ground" should stand up or not consider their dogs for placement, and 2) that trimming (except for the bottoms of the feet) should be considered such a serious fault as to effectively remove the dog from serious consideration, or words to that effect. What do you all think? Susan Jackson Reward's Boxers & Cavalier Sylmar, CA [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://sujac.home.mindspring.com _________________________________________________________________ MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print your photos: http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx ========================================================= "Magic Commands": to stop receiving mail for awhile, click here and send the email: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20NOMAIL to start it up gain click here: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20MAIL E-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] for assistance. Search the Archives... http://apple.ease.lsoft.com/archives/ckcs-l.html All e-mail sent through CKCS-L is Copyright 2002 by its original author.
