I believe that more exhibitors are showing and finishing their plain Boxers than ever before. And why not, when you consider that an average litter may contain two flashy puppies, two whites, perhaps a mismarked and the rest plain.
Some of us would never attempt to put a plain dog in the ring as we know all too well how difficult it is to win our class, let alone the points, and the cost can be prohibitive. So a plain dog must be an outstanding specimen of the breed in order to win over "flash," and judges should consider quality first. Like a pair of two-toned shoes, the flashy dog is an eye-catcher and more attractive in appearance, but "flash" is superficial, often put up for the points, with the plain dog not even considered. Although "flash" may be desirable, it is secondary to correct type and overall balance.
I can remember in the early 1950s when the market was flooded with Boxer puppies and it was almost impossible to sell a plain male, so many were culled at birth. The plain male of today isn't sought after as a stud nor does he get his fair share of wins in the ring. Breeders wanting to cut down on the abundance of white facial markings and white haws might consider plain dogs in their breeding programs.
For some reason, the plain fawn fares better in the ring than the brindle, but this shouldn't be. Breeders recognize the richness of the brindle color and know the value of it. Preference of fawn or brindle in Mastiffs or Bullmastiffs has never been a factor.
I do prefer a flashy Boxer to a plain one if quality, type and overall balance meets or exceeds that of the plain dog. Breeders and exhibitors would be delighted if judges would give the plain Boxer more consideration and evaluate his attributes.
Dixie McCauley
1304 W. Ocotillo Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013
