What constitutes a serious fault or disqualification regarding pigmentation in the White Shepherd's oral area per the UKC standard?
Answer
The total lack of pigment on the lips, nose, eye rims, or pads.
Dark pigmentation is considered a crucial hallmark of quality and breed soundness in the White Shepherd, particularly around the facial features and extremities. A complete absence of pigment—total lack of pigmentation—on the lips, nose, eye rims, or the paw pads represents a major structural flaw. This fault is serious enough that it is classified as a disqualification under the United Kennel Club (UKC) standard. Owners should actively monitor these tissues to ensure the deep, dark pigment remains present, even if seasonal temperature changes cause the nose color to temporarily lighten to a 'snow nose' condition.
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