And the beat goes on, and we dance to the rhythm of the past! I'm referring to the white haw removal of the past and the present practice of removing or shaving the "harter" gland in the eye.
How many of you remember in the 1960s the warnings from the AKC regarding white haw removal which was then a common practice in our breed? The AKC told us that it would stand behind its disqualifications of dogs altered in this manner. At that time, the white haw was listed in the standard as a fault, and breeders found themselves in a dilemma since practically all of the recognized quality bloodlines had the white haw ingrained in them.
So the standard was rewritten and approved in 1968, deleting the white haw as a fault. And then what happened? Did we as breeders attempt to breed for dark haws and stop all the surgical procedures? Not really! Oh, perhaps a few did, and more dogs are being shown with white haws as long as they don't have the sagging lower eyelid to accompany them. But AKC's actions did get our attention, and we should have taken that opportunity to reevaluate our breeding programs and steer away from the overabundance of flash.
To get away from the white haw removal, some went to the removal or shaving of the "harter" gland, which helps to recede the haw. The many "dry eyes" and eye infections resulting from these surgeries have contributed to the refusal by many veterinarians to perform such procedures. (Editor's note: Exhibitors should also be aware of the AKC's special bulletin published in the November 1989 GAZETTE concerning "Changes in Appearance by Artificial Means That Require Disqualification of a Dog From Shows and Obedience Trials.")
We need to emphasize to judges that the white haw is not a fault in our breed and is only one part of the Boxer's total expression, and that they should judge the total expression.
Expression is not a fixed point, like color, weight or height, but is rather the combined product of the shape of the skull and muzzle, the set, size,shape and color of the eyes and the position and carriage of the ears.
Since the white haw is not a fault, judges should not penalize it in our breed! Look for the proper expression: intelligent and alert!
1991 ABC REGIONAL
The 1991 regional show circuit is being held at the Maruko Hotel in San Bernardino, California, starting November 12 with the Orange Coast Boxer Club and judge Elva Young presiding. The circuit continues with the following clubs (judges noted in parentheses): November 13, Boxer Club of San Fernando (Connie Meylan); November 14, Boxer Club of San Diego County (Leslie Rogers); November 15, Boxer Club of Southern California, Inc. (Leonard Reece); and the American Boxer Club regional on November 16 with judges Rufus Burleson and Audrey Peach.
Dixie McCauley
1304 W. Ocotillo Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013
