CONSTITUTION as accepted at the Annual General Meeting held on 25 October 2008

1. NAME OF THE ASSOCIATION

The Association shall be known as the Elite Boerboel Breeders Association of Southern Africa (International) in full and as EBBASA in abbreviation.

2. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Vision of the Association

The vision of EBBASA is:

1. To maintain and grow an association, which conforms, to all of the definitions of the minimum standards as well as measurable exemplary standards to be employed with regard to:
1. the breeding of the Boerboel dog breed,
2. the ethical standards required from members and breeders,
3. the ethical standards required from appraisers,
4. the standard required of the breeding kennels in order to meet National and International norms,
5. and the standard and format of organisational methodology required to maintain and grow an Organisation of the nature and stature intended.
2. Achieve member interest and involvement through proper communication and consultation, whilst ensuring control and maintenance of the entry standards, including any Codes of Good Practice, as defined from time to time.
3. The ongoing refinement and improvement of the Boerboel breed via:
1. the setting of a breed standard that will take the maintenance of the gene pool and the historical origins of the breed into consideration
2. the utilisation by members of identified, best breeding stock,
3. specified exclusion of identified, scientifically proven genetically transferred defects
4. application of all available scientific knowledge with regard to genetics, breeding practices, nutrition, etc.
5. gaining of, scientifically testing and specifically recording knowledge gained by it’s members from experience of the Boerboel breed
6. the continuous, open sharing of such information with members.
4. To protect the integrity of the South African origins, name and identity of the Boerboel breed.

Mission Statement

To achieve the vision defined above, the Association will utilise:

1. professional management structures and principles in:
1. the election and appointment of all management structures including regional or country representatives or event coordinators / organisers
2. defining the scope and areas of responsibility of all functions performed by the Management structure, including the performance management of any function/s
3. all communication to members, interested parties and other organisations and the marketing of the Association and of the Breed,
4. the setting of standards for appraisals, appraisers, exporting of stock, inspection of applicant and registered breeders’ stocks and facilities and the investigation of complaints lodged against members and
5. ensuring the commitment and loyalty of its members in order to achieve the most effective and streamlined organisational structure possible.
2. professional methodology to refine and improve the breed by:
1. the utilisation of scientifically proven breeding methodology,
2. the interchange between breeders and associated professions and trades of available and applicable knowledge,
3. the development of international support via the international contacts of its members, targeted marketing and communication and generally available information,
4. by the development of relationship with the respective international Kennel Unions should it be deemed by a General meeting of members to be an essential prerequisite to preserving the identity of the breed and the accepted norms of the Association
5. to compile, protect and maintain, through the keeping of precise records, the pedigrees, ancestry, ownership and details of thoroughbred Boerboels, in such a manner that it will be usable in its full format by the Management structures of the Association as well as for information and breed improvement purposes by its members or approved research purposes
6. to compile a Breed Standard, considering that the Organisation aims to be the “Elite” Organisation for owners and breeders of Boerboels as a “Standard of Excellence” for the breed,
7. to compile and record digital images to serve as examples of the correct stature of both male and female Boerboel dogs
8. to accurately record the proceedings of all management, general and annual general meetings, communication with other organisations, the findings during all disciplinary, standards or ethical investigations and
9. to fulfil such functions and duties as are imposed on the Association by the Law and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa or such other country within which the Association operates.

Summary of Principal Activities

1. The activities in which the Association will involve itself will include the establishment and maintenance of minimum standards for:
1. ethical conduct of members, breeders and appraisers
2. all breeding and stock development activities,
3. the training of appraisers, senior appraisers, breeders and members,
4. the holding of regular appraisals for new stock evaluation.
2. A primary objective will be the registration and control of stock and stock ownership within the Association to:
1. ensure the ongoing purification to the breed and
2. the progressive elimination genetic defects therein

This will be carried out by means of the encouragement and oversight control by the Association of its members’ breeding, registration and marketing activities.

3. AUTHORITIES OF ASSOCIATION

1. Define and enforce the standards required of breeders with regard to breeding stock and kennels facilities.
2. Define and enforce a Standard of Code of Conduct for Members, Breeders and Appraisers
3. Define and enforce the event standards, structure, format and standard of appraising the stock presented to be utilised when holding approved EBBASA appraisal days.
4. Define and enforce a breed standard of the Boerboel for EBBASA registration.
5. Define and enforce the standard of training of appraisers and inspectors.
6. Define and enforce the procedures and standards for carrying out breeders’ facility inspections.
7. Define, implement and enforce stock and ownership registration process and procedures.
8. Define and enforce the advertising and marketing procedures to be followed by members utilising EBBASAs name for marketing purposes and issuing EBBASA certificates as part of contracts of sale.
9. Define and enforce the standards of presentation to be adopted when showing stock under the auspices of EBBASA.

4.MEMBERSHIP

Membership of EBBASA is open to Boerboel breeders, Boerboel owners and individuals from other fields, which are interested in, researching, related to or have a connection with the activity of Boerboel breeding.

Categories of membership shall be as follows:

1. Breeder Member
   The Breeder Member must demonstrate that he or she owns a minimum of two Boerboel dogs (of which at least one must be a breeding female), registered with EBBASA and conforming to EBBASA minimum standards. Breeder Members shall also satisfy EBBASA that his or her ethical conduct as a Breeder and that his / her breeding facility meets with the minimum standards specified by EBBASA on a continuous basis. Breeder members will be allowed to register births, utilise EBBASA standard documentation and utilise the EBBASA logo on their advertisements and correspondence. Breeder members will have full voting rights irrespective of geographical positioning. All Breeder members must accept and act according to the Code of Ethics of EBBASA.
2. Owner Member
   The Owner Member must demonstrate that he or she is the owner of at least one Boerboel dog, of either sex, registered with and conforming to EBBASA minimum standards. Owner Members shall also satisfy EBBASA that his or her ethical conduct as an Owner meets with the minimum standards specified by EBBASA on a continuous basis. Owner members will be allowed to utilise the EBBASA logo on their advertisements and correspondence. Owner members will have full voting rights irrespective of geographical positioning. All Owner members must accept and act according to the Code of Ethics of EBBASA.
3. Affiliate Membership
   The Affiliate Member may be any person connected in any way whatsoever with the breeding of dogs or have a specific interest in the Boerboel breed or any Breeder or Owner that has not yet met the standards set for breeding stock, breeding facilities or kennel facilities or is under investigation by EBBASA for alleged misconduct brought by any member, buyer or interested party regarding ethical conduct or any other matter of substance. Affiliate members will not be allowed to utilise the EBBASA logo on their advertisements and correspondence. Affiliate members will be allowed to register stock and have such stock appraised but may not utilise his / her membership of EBBASA in any marketing or promotional activities. Affiliate members do not have voting rights and cannot serve as an Elected Board member. Affiliate members need not accept and / or act according to the Code of Ethics of EBBASA.
4. Junior Membership
   The Junior Member may be any individual below the age of 18 years who fulfils the requirement for Affiliate Membership. Junior members will not be allowed to utilise the EBBASA logo on their advertisements and correspondence. Junior members will be allowed to register stock and have such stock appraised but may not utilise his / her membership of EBBASA in any marketing or promotional activities. Junior Members do not have voting rights. All Junior members must accept and act according to the Code of Ethics of EBBASA.
5. Application for membership of the Association must be directed to the Association on the prescribed form. The application must be accompanied by the required subscription and/or entrance fee as stated in the regulation.
6. An application for membership must be accompanied by the required proof that the member meets the prescribed requirements. Should any of the prerequisite criteria for membership not be met, such as a kennel inspection that was not yet done by an appointed inspector, any application for membership will be deemed to be for that of Associate membership.
7. The Board may accept the application of any person for membership, unconditionally or on such conditions as the Board may stipulate, or may refuse any application without supplying any reason for such refusal.
8. If an application for membership is refused, the applicant will be refunded all monies, which accompanied his application.

Top

5. BREEDERS’ REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to register as an EBBASA breeder, owner, junior or affiliate member, the applicant must fulfil the requirements of Clause 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and / or 4.4 above and must also be able to demonstrate his compliance with the minimum standards applicable to the category of membership applied for.

1. Stock In order to qualify for registration with EBBASA, all dogs must achieve an EBBASA grading of 75% or better. The appraisal of dogs by a registered EBBASA appraiser is a prerequisite to stock registration. Further, all male dogs must achieve a hip displasia of C2 or better, and in the case of females a hip displasia of C2 or better on the FCI Grading for Hips. Further, all bitches are to be certified as being free from vaginal prolapse, or shall be so certified prior to use for breeding. EBBASA reserves the right to add additional criteria to the above minimum standards should genetic traits or other information require the initiation of such criteria.



2. Breeding Facilities In order to register as an EBBASA breeder, the applicant must be able to demonstrate that the physical facilities provided for the keeping and breeding of all Boerboel dogs at the facility conforms to the latest minimum standards as set out from time to time by EBBASA for registered breeding kennels. Breeding facilities will only be certified for a predetermined number of dogs and a set period of time by EBBASA. The onus to notify EBBASA of any changes in the number of dogs at the facility, the facility itself, the physical address, change of ownership or any other factor that might influence the wellbeing of the dogs kept at the facility, rests with the owner. Upon receiving notification of such a change, EBBASA will perform an inspection at the premises to determine if the set standards are still being met.



3. Registration
   EBBASA shall cause registers to be kept in respect of all breeders, members, appraisers, inspectors and members’ breeding stock. Persons applying for registration in all of the above categories, as well as persons applying for registration of dogs, are responsible for provision of all necessary information to the Association to enable such registration to take place. Members are particularly required to ensure that their addresses and other contact details are correct and are maintained in the Association’s records. All registrations are to be carried out and maintained in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the Association as amended from time to time.

6. RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERS

The rights and privileges of each enfranchised member of the Association are as follows:

1. To receive all reports and other publications of the Association intended for distribution among the members.
2. To attend all General as well as Special meetings of the Association and, where the member is enfranchised, to vote at such meetings.
3. To apply for the registration of Boerboels according to the stipulations of this Constitution and of the Rules and Regulations of the Association.
4. To receive, if available, expert and technical advice regarding matters concerning Boerboels from the Association’s officials. Any costs that may be involved in this will be for the applicant’s account.
5. To consult and use the official reports of the Association’s various disciplines as may be required, provided full acknowledgement is given to the source.
6. To undergo such training in any of the Association’s various disciplines as may be desired, and to obtain registration therein where applicable and appropriate.
7. To market and to show EBBASA registered dogs under the name and goodwill of the Association, in order to enhance the quality and desirability of their kennels’ stock and bloodlines.

The rights and privileges of each Associate and Junior Owner member of the Association are as for Breeder and Owner members with the exception of Clause 6.7 which is excluded from their benefits and privileges as members.

7. SUBSCRIPTIONS AND FEES

1. The amounts of all members’ subscriptions or any other fees due to the Association will be determined from time to time by the Board and are payable by members on the submission by the Association of its invoice to the member.
2. The annual membership fees are payable in advance on 1st April of each year.
3. Any member whose subscription is in arrears or who owes the Association money regarding any obligations for longer than 60 days after an account has been sent to him by the Secretary, shall forfeit all rights and privileges of membership until such debt has been settled.
4. Any member who, for whatever reason, ceases to be a member of the Association shall remain responsible for all amounts of money due to the Association at the time of the termination of his membership.
5. If the Board should decide that the account of a member is overdue or outstanding at the time of the termination of his membership, such a member, if his account is handed over to a firm for collection, shall be held responsible for the payment of all legal costs, costs of collection fees, and attorney and client costs which it may incur, together with the original amount, plus any other claims which are due to the Association.

8. RESIGNATIONS, SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS

1. Any member may resign as a member of the Association by submitting one month’s written notice to the Association.
1. No subscription or part thereof shall be refundable, and
2. all money which is due to the Association is to be fully paid and all obligations are to be fulfilled in respect of documents, records, registration and legal transfers or any other obligation with reference to membership which are required by the Association.
2. Suspension and/or Expulsion of Members
1. The Board may suspend a member who:
1. fails to pay any amount of money due to the Association within 60 days after the Association’s account has been received by him,
2. has infringed any rule of the Association or who, in the opinion of the Board, has acted dishonourably in any manner towards an official or the character of the Association, or to the detriment of the interests of the Association,
3. by his actions or lack of action has brought real or possible disgrace to the Association or has, in the opinion of EBBASA, been guilty of conduct in contradiction to the Code of Ethics of EBBASA or of any conduct construed by EBBASA to be to the real or possible detriment of the interests of the Association,
4. has deliberately supplied false information or has engaged in activities or any course of action designed to mislead and/or defraud
5. has been found guilty of breaking any law with specific reference to ethical conduct and / or the treatment of animals.

The investigation of any complaint against a member or members or the investigation of misconduct will take place in the following procedurally and substantively fair manner:



1. Complaints or allegations of transgressions must in all instances be brought in writing to EBBASA. Verbal complaints will not be investigated. All complaints will however be registered as such on the database of EBBASA and statistically reported upon at each Annual General Meeting.
2. b) Only complaints and allegations brought against EBBASA members will be considered for further investigation.
3. c) The Chairperson of EBBASA, in consultation with the Standards Officer, is authorised to make an initial judgement, at their sole discretion, on the substantive nature and severity of each submitted complaint or alleged transgression. The decision by the responsible persons should include a recommendation if the member should be immediately suspended as Breeder or Owner member pending a full investigation or not,
4. d) Should the responsible persons decide that adequate substantive grounds for a full investigation exist, the member will be notified of the allegation in writing and given 5 working days to respond to the Chairperson regarding the allegation in writing.
5. e) Should the responsible persons decide that adequate substantive grounds for an investigation do not exist, that the person involved is not a Breeder, Owner or Junior member of EBBASA, or if any ground exist that point to personal disputes between persons, the complainant will be notified in writing by EBBASA of its decision not to further investigate on the basis of the grounds presented to it. The complainant will be invited to submit further information should such information come to his / her knowledge.
6. The person or persons against which an allegation has been made will be allowed at least 30 days but not more than 45 days before the date of a disciplinary hearing at which such allegation will be discussed and at which the member may appear either in person or if he so chooses be represented by a properly empowered representative to state his side of the matter. Both the EBBASA Board and the member under investigation may call witnesses should they so desire, but otherwise attendance at the hearing shall be restricted to the parties directly involved.
7. The EBBASA Board will be justified in making such a thorough enquiry into the behaviour of a member as it may deem necessary, and will be justified in obtaining any information from any place, or firm in such a manner as the Board may deem suitable provided such activities are legal and constitutional. The Board is also authorised to appoint any investigating person or team to investigate such matter on its behalf. No member shall have any action, claim and/or the right of redemption against the Board concerning any matter and/or case, which result from such an enquiry or information, which has been obtained.
2. After the disciplinary hearing the EBBASA Board may decide to lift the member’s suspension, maintain the suspension for a definite period of time, recommend a follow-up investigation at a later date in order to allow the Member to perform remedial actions, to expel the member from the Association or to take any other course of action, which it may deem fitting and justified. Such decision is to be taken within seven days of the date of the hearing.



3. Any member who has attended a disciplinary hearing must be informed in writing of the EBBASA Board’s decision within three days after the date on which the decision of the Board has been made.



4. The outcome of any disciplinary action will only be communicated to those parties who submitted complaints or allegations in writing. The proceedings and findings of any hearing will not be communicated except in the case of expulsion, where a short statement regarding the action will be published for the information of all members. Should any enquiry be made into the membership status of any member who is or was under investigation, only the actual membership status of such a member will be made public and not the detail or the findings of the investigation. Should any such person be suspended from Breeder, Owner or Junior membership for a period of time, only the current membership status and the time period will be made known.



5. Any member who is suspended or expelled shall pay all monies due to the Association and shall honour all obligations regarding notifications or registrations or any other obligation concerning his former membership.



6. After any expulsion of a member, the EBBASA Board will remove his name from the list of members and from any other registers of the Association. After such date no details of dogs bred by him will be recorded or registered. Should the EBBASA Board so decide, registrations of dogs previously bred by such member may be deleted from the Association’s register, or details thereof adjusted. The EBBASA Board reserves the right to inform any parties whose interests may be affected by such adjustments or deletions, and the expenses thereof shall be at the defaulting party’s expense.



7. In the event of a dispute remaining between the Board and the suspended or expelled party after conclusion of the disciplinary hearing, then the parties shall refer the matter to either an Arbitrator or to a Mediator who is acceptable to both parties. Such Arbitrator or Mediator shall be selected by agreement between the parties, who shall agree that his/her decision shall be final and binding upon them.



8. Such Arbitrator or Mediator shall have no connection with either EBBASA or any member thereof, or with the suspended member, neither shall there be any familial connection with any of the Parties, the Association’s officers or the members of the Board.

9. ELECTION OF THE BOARD

1. Composition of the Board
   1. The Elected Board
      The interests of the Association are governed and managed by a Board which will consist of the following members who are to be elected at Annual General Meetings.
      1. Chairperson
      2. Vice Chairperson
      3. Treasurer
      4. International Liaison Officer
      5. Standards Officer
      6. Media Officer
   2. The co-opted Board
      
      1. Regional Representatives and Event Coordinators as co-opted by the Elected Board
2. Election Procedures
   
   For the purpose of the election of members to the Board, the Board in office at the time shall, prior to the General Meeting, appoint a Polling Officer who will assume responsibility for the running of the election. The identity of the Polling Officer shall be made known to the membership in die Notice of the Meeting. Such Polling Officer shall have no familial, social or business connection with any member of the Association and shall have no interest whatsoever with the Association’s affairs.
   
   The procedure for elections will be as follows:
   
   
   1. Candidates who made themselves available for election to the EBBASA Board, including existing EBBASA Board Members, are to be nominated to the Secretary in writing at least 6 weeks prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting, in order that the membership may be informed in the Notice of Meeting of the identities of the candidates who are available for election.
   2. Voting will take place by a secret ballot paper, which will be issued to enfranchised members upon registration, prior to or during the meeting. Such ballot paper will contain no number and/or signature to reveal the identity of the voter.
   3. Proxy votes must be registered in writing on the prescribed form with the Polling Officer at least seven days before the date of the Annual General Meeting. The Polling Officer will issue the number of additional secret ballot papers indicated by the number of Proxy Votes allocated to the member indicated for the casting of votes by such enfranchised member.
   4. Any member who wishes to abstain from voting shall nevertheless hand in a blank ballot paper in order to facilitate reconciliation of the number of votes cast with the number of persons present at the meeting plus the number of proxy votes.
   5. The ballot papers shall, after collection from the floor, be counted in the meeting room in the presence of the attending members, and shall not be removed there from until after the meeting has closed; they shall the thereafter be retained by the EBBASA Board until the following Annual General Meeting. The results of the ballot shall be announced immediately after completion of the counting of the votes.
   6. The elected members shall constitute the Board of the Association.
   7. Members elected in this manner will normally occupy office for a period of two years.
   8. The chairperson, vice chairperson and treasurer shall be elected from within the Board on the basis of a show of hands vote by the members thereof; for this purpose, the Annual General Meeting shall recess and the elected Board Members shall immediately hold a brief Board meeting solely in order to elect the Officers of the Board. After this meeting, the Annual General Meeting shall reconvene for the purpose of informing the membership of the outcome thereof.
   9. Retiring members of the previous Board are eligible for re-election.
3. Members of the Board who are absent from two consecutive Board meetings without having submitted prior apologies to the Board shall forfeit office.
4. If a member dies, resigns, ceases to be a member of the Association or forfeits his office by reason of Clause 9.3 the Board may appoint any member as substitute to fulfil the responsibilities of the vacant post at its sole discretion or may consider the runner-up from the previous election as the substitute for the rest of the remaining term of office.
5. If the position of chairperson becomes vacant before the expiry of the term of election, the vice-chairperson will fill the vacant position for the unexpired period of the term. If the position of vice chairperson becomes vacant before the expiry of the term for which such officer was elected to the Board, then the Board must vote at the subsequent Board meeting for one of the Board members to fill the vacancy for the unexpired period of the term.

Top

10. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD

1. Subject to the stipulations of clause 7.1 to alter or adapt the Associations fee structures from time to time and to implement any modifications as may be deemed necessary thereto.
2. To call Annual General Meetings of the Association or Special General Meetings on account of a special request which is addressed to it according to the provisions of the Constitution, or otherwise if thought necessary.
3. To execute control regarding the local and international handling of Boerboel puppies and dogs, Boerboel semen and egg cells (fertilised or unfertilised), as well as the import and export of same. To be aware of and to comply with all governmental regulations and procedures relating to such activities and to be in a position to advise members of the Association with regard thereto.
4. To appoint Appraisers to appraise Boerboels which are presented for recording or registration and to give instructions for the purpose for any other activities for which members of the Association may require the services of Appraisers and to give such Appraisers instruction to ensure that the aims and objectives of the Association are carried out.
5. To draw up such rules and conditions regarding the qualifications and appointment of Appraisers of Boerboels as may be thought necessary on the understanding that no person shall qualify as an Appraiser until he has satisfied such requirements as are specified by the Board. In addition, keep a record of the names of all Appraisers and to reconsider the panel of Appraisers from time to time and to remove such names as may be deemed appropriate.
6. To appoint Inspectors to evaluate Boerboels breeding and kennel facilities of all members and applicant members on a regular basis, to investigate the validity of complaints against members and to present their findings for recording and consideration to the EBBASA Board. The EBBASA Board may give instructions for the purpose for any other activities for which members of the Association may require the services of an Inspector and to give such Inspectors instruction to ensure that the aims and objectives of the Association are carried out.
7. To allocate duties, responsibilities and span of influence instructions to the elected and co-opted members of the Board to ensure the optimal functioning of the Board. The Board is also authorised to performance manage all members of the Board and to remove the functional responsibilities and duties from non-performing members and to allocate such duties to another, even co-opted member.
8. To appoint Regional Representatives and Event Coordinators and to involve them in the Association’s activities in their Provinces in the Republic of South Africa.
9. To appoint Event Organisers and under exceptional circumstances, Regional Representatives, for all Countries in which the Association has adequate members to warrant the organising of events and to involve them in the Association’s activities in their respective Countries.
10. To assist all Regional Representatives and Event Coordinators in providing optimal service to the members in their regions and to advise all such Representatives and Coordinators regarding any matter that could affect the status of a Member, applicant Member or dogs brought for Appraisal or registration. No Representative or Event Coordinator may make any statements or issue any communication regarding any viewpoint, function, action or omission of the Association in his / her capacity as Representative or Coordinator without obtaining written permission from EBBASA to release such a statement.
11. To co-opt the services of any member of the Association and to establish sub-committees on such conditions and to grant such powers to them as may be thought desirable from time to time., provided that any such Sub-committee shall be responsible for reporting back to the Board, at such intervals specified by the Board, on the activities of said Sub-committee. The Elected Members of the Board are ex-officio members of all clubs and sub-committees, enjoying all rights and privileges thereof.
12. To institute a system of appraisal regarding the Boerboel, the exporting of dogs and the kennel and breeding facilities of members and to formulate rules, conditions and terms concerning such appraisal, within the understanding that when the Board has drawn up any rules or has changed them in any other manner, they will be presented at the next General Meeting of the Association for the information of such meeting.
13. To organise and promote the sales of Boerboels.
14. To receive and consider applications for membership and to accept or reject them according to the Board’s absolute discretion.
15. To draw up, alter or repeal rules and regulations concerning the control of the affairs and the execution of the aims of the Association.
16. To act at all times in the best interests of the Association and in the interests of the members thereof. Further, to act in the best interest of promoting the public image of the Boerboel as a dog breed.
17. To monitor the standards of kennels and breeding facilities operated by members and breeders registered with EBBASA.
18. To implement the marketing strategy defined by the Association and to ensure the compliance with the advertising and marketing procedures defined, by members utilising the Association’s name for marketing purposes.
19. To establish and support Boerboel Clubs in accordance with the Association’s requirements.
20. To set dates and venues for dog appraisal days for the Association’s members and interested parties.
21. To remain a financially viable and stable Association.
22. To ensure that the Association is run in harmony with the Southern African community and its various cultures.
23. To investigate, negotiate, establish and maintain relationships between the Association and the recognised Kennel Union of each country where such an association might be feasible in order to ensure the recognition and advancement of the Boerboel dog breed in the international forum.
24. To broaden and improve links with international bodies, such as may be advantageous to the advancement of EEBASA and the furtherance of Boerboel dog breeding.
25. To set up and control international EBBASA structures for overseas members, and to maintain and expand same in order to ensure furtherance of the Association internationally.

11. MEETINGS

1. Board will meet at such a time and place as may be decided by it from time to time provided that at least four meetings of the Board shall be held during every financial year.
1. Special Meeting of the Board:
1. May be convened by the chairperson or vice chairperson at such a time and place as such an office bearer may decide, or
2. Will be convened at a request signed by not fewer than five Members of the Board and in which reasons for the meeting are stated. Such a request must be addressed to the Association.
2. A written notification of the time, date and place of a proposed special meeting of the Board must be posted by the Association to all members of the Board who are entitled to attend not later than 21 days before the meeting is to take place.
3. A written notification of the time, date and place of a proposed special meeting of the Board must be posted by the Association to all members of the Board who are entitled to attend not later than 21 days before the meeting is to take place.
2. General Meetings
1. A General Meeting of the Association, known as the Annual General Meeting, is to be held in each financial year at such a time as the Board will decide.
2. At such Annual General Meeting the Board will present its annual report, which shall include a properly audited balance sheet and a report upon the Association’s activates within the financial year on which the report has a bearing.
3. Such an Annual General Meeting must be held not later than three months after the end of each financial year of the Association (the last day of February of each year).
4. A Special General Meeting of the Association may be convened at any time by
1. the Board, or
2. b) the chairperson or vice chairperson, and will be convened following submission of a written request for a meeting, addressed to the Board of the Association, and which is signed by no fewer than ten members of the Association. Such a request must clearly specify the purpose of the requested meeting and in the course of such a meeting only the matters specified in said written request may be discussed.
3. A preliminary notification of the time, date and venue for the Annual General Meeting must be posted to each member by the Association at least 60 days before the meeting. Any member who intends to submit any matter for discussion at the Annual General Meeting must notify the Secretary thereof in writing at least 31 days prior to the meeting.
4. A final notification of the time, date and venue at which any General or Special Meeting will be held, together with the agenda of the meeting, must be posted to each member at least 30 days before the meeting.
5. No decision will be taken at a General Meeting on any matter unless said matter appears on the agenda which has been sent to the memberships set out above.
6. Any General Meeting may be adjourned by a two-thirds majority vote of the members present, any such vote to be taken by a show of hands.
7. For the purpose of reversing decisions taken at a General Meeting, a two-thirds majority is required at a subsequent Special General Meeting.
8. 10No matter which has otherwise been settled properly and constitutionally at any general meeting may be declared null and void, in the event that any member may have failed to receive the notices of the meeting.
9. The chairperson presides at all meetings and in his absence the vice chairperson will take the chair. If neither of these office bearers is present, then the members present at such a meeting must elect another member to preside thereat and any person elected in such a manner shall have the power to execute all of the duties of the chairperson.
10. Any matter put to a vote at any meeting, which results in the number of votes being equally divided, shall be settled by the chairperson who shall have an additional casting vote.
11. Subject to the stipulations of Clause 9.2 voting at all meetings, save for voting for elections of the Board, will take place by a show of hands.
12. Quorums
1. The quorum for both special and ordinary Board Meetings shall comprise of four Elected Members or sixty percent of the total Board Members.
2. Forty percent (40%) of the members of the Association present in person or through registered proxy at the beginning of any General Meeting constitute a quorum for such a meeting.
3. If there is no quorum at any meeting, the meeting can be adjourned for a time which is determined by the members present in person. At any such adjourned meeting the members present in fact will constitute a quorum.

12. MINUTES OF MEETINGS

1. Every Board member will be provided with a copy of the minutes of all meetings not later than 21 days after the meeting.
2. The minutes of all meetings, once properly adopted at a subsequent meeting, excluding a Special Meeting, shall be proof that all proceedings have taken place properly and that all elections, appointments and resolutions accepted during such a meeting, are binding and in force.

13. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

1. The Board will ensure that one or more bank accounts will be opened on behalf of the Association in which all money that the Association may receive will be deposited.
2. All payments from the funds of the Association will be done by cheque or electronic transfer. All cheques and authorisation of electronic transfers must be signed by the Treasurer or person appointed by the Board and countersigned by such a person or persons as has been empowered by the Board to do so. Nothing included herein will prevent the Board from keeping and maintaining a petty cash fund.
3. The Association must keep proper account books which must be audited from time to time, but not less than once a year by a qualified auditor appointed annually by the General Meeting of the Association.
4. All property of the Association, including all processes, data, databases, electronic communication, electronic records, programs, intellectual property and / or rights is vested in the Association.

14. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

1. Additions, amendments and/or changes to the Constitution may only be introduced by a majority decision of not less than two-thirds of members at a General Meeting who are present, enfranchised and who may vote. A written notice of any proposed amendments or additions to the Constitution must accompany the final notice of a meeting described above.

15. SEAT OF THE ASSOCIATION

The seat of the Association will be as determined by the Board but will remain in South Africa.

Top

16. EBBASA RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Registration of Dogs
1. The official system of permanent identification of Boerboels’ registration is the implantation of a microchip in the neck or an acceptable tattoo, featuring a unique number per animal, applied to one of the dog’s ears.
2. The implantation or tattoo must be done when puppies are of an age between six and ten weeks, but in the case of a puppy sold to a third party must be done prior to said sale taking place.
3. Registered breeders are required to register the birth of puppies to an EBBASA registered bitch within two months of the date thereof. Said registration shall include details of both parents, as well as the number of males and females comprising the litter. The bitch and the litter shall be available for inspection by any EBBASA official at the breeder’s registered kennels at any time after registration, should EBBASA so require.
4. Only dogs bred from pre-graded and accepted parents (not necessarily by EBBASA) (of which both must be certified on the application by the owner of the bitch, to have a hip dysplasia grading of not worse than FCI C2 for the bitch and FCI -C2 for the male, or such Penn Hip grading and percentage as deemed acceptable by the Board at such time, will be issued with EBBASA birth notices.
5. The owner of a registered Boerboel bitch should acquire and submit a Service Certificate if a male Boerboel dog is used for service and which does not belong to the owner of the bitch. Such a Service Certificate should be sent with the Birth Notification Application to the Association as the submission of such a document could influence the Grading given to a specific litter for export or remote buyer certification.
6. All dogs issued with EBBASA birth notices must be marked by the breeder with acceptable microchip identification implants, or in the case of puppies, at six weeks and/or before such dog leave the premises of the breeder, whichever may be the earliest.
7. Dogs are eligible for EBBASA grading from the age of one (1) year but must in all cases be accompanied by:
1. hip X-ray certificates on which the hip dysplasia grading of the dog has been certified by a specialist as acceptable according to the norms accepted by EBBASA at such time.
2. certification as being free of eye entropion and ectropion by a veterinary specialist as acceptable according to the norms accepted by EBBASA at such time.
3. in the case of a bitch that has had her first heat cycle, a veterinary certificate certifying that she showed no signs of vaginal hyperplasia during the period as prescribed by EBBASA
4. Should the above certification not be presented at the time of the appraisal of the dog, the non-submission of such information will be noted on the Registration Certificate of the dog and could influence the awarding of any Merit Award to the dog.
5. Should such certification be submitted to EBBASA at a later stage, it would necessitate the issuing of a replacement Registration Certificate, for which the prescribed fee will have to be paid to EBBASA.
8. All adult bitches for which the owners wish to apply for membership as an EBBASA breeder must be accompanied by a veterinary certificate certified by a specialist as approved by EBBASA at such time, certifying that such a bitch was free from vaginal prolapse during the period of her heat cycle as prescribed by EBBASA.
9. All veterinary certificates issued in respect of EBBASA registered dogs shall bear the microchip identification number or ear tattoo number of the dog and shall warrant that the veterinarian issuing the certificate has, at the time of examination of the dog, verified said identification number by means of an electronic scanner or visual verification of tattoos.
2. Facilities Registration
1. An EBBASA registered breeding kennel’s facilities shall have a minimum enclosure space for each adult dog older than 6 months of 2,5 metres x 5 metres, or otherwise of a minimum floor area of 12.5 square meters, with a shelter structure in each of at least 1,0 metre x 1,0 metre x 1 metre in height internal dimensions for each dog kept in the specific enclosure. Shelter structures are to possess a concrete floor, and to be fully weather-proofed and protected. Exercise pens are to be securely enclosed.
2. All enclosures are to be cleaned out on at least one occasion per 24 hour period, and are to be thoroughly disinfected at least once during each two week period.
3. Facilities for the provision of food and water are to be clean and kept in such a way as to ensure that hygienic feeding conditions are available to all the dogs kept in the enclosure. All stock and the quarters in which they are housed are to be maintained in a vermin-free condition, with regard to fleas, ticks and rodents. All necessary precautions in order to prevent the ingress of vermin are to be visibly in place.

The foregoing regulations will be subject to amendment by the Board as may be decided from time to time. In the event of any non-compliance with said regulations by any EBBASA registered breeder, the Board shall notify the breeder of said non-compliance and shall require said breeder to comply with the regulation within a period of three months, failing which the Board shall be entitled to suspend the person’s membership as a Breeder or Owner member until such time as his or her compliance has been demonstrated or in the case of continued non-compliance, terminate such membership.

3. Appraisal Standards
1. EBBASA appraisal of dogs will be performed within South Africa by EBBASA a certified appraiser or appraisers as appointed for the event by the Standards Officer according to the standards set hereunder.
2. Internationally, all EBBASA appraisal of dogs will be performed by at least a Senior EBBASA Appraiser and at least one EBBASA Appraiser as appointed for the event by the Standards Officer according to the standards set hereunder. Under exceptional circumstances, and only where the Standards Officer has received prior notification of the likelihood of such an event occurring, or if the event was unforeseen, can a single Senior Appraiser be authorised to perform an international appraisal.
3. EBBASA recognises three classes of appraisers namely:
1. Appraisers in training
1. Any member of EBBASA can apply to be trained as an Appraiser
2. All such applicants, irrespective of national origin, must attend an Appraisers’ Training Course presented by EBBASA. During such training theoretical as well as practical training will be presented
3. All Appraisers in training will only be allowed into the Appraisal Arena in the presence of a Senior Appraiser. The Appraiser in Training will be allowed to observe, complete a “training” appraisal form and ask questions from the senior appraiser. At the end of each appraisal, the senior appraiser will discuss and certify the appraisals performed by the appraiser in training
4. All appraisers in training must prove that they appraised at least 30 dogs in the manner and to the satisfaction of the senior appraiser/s present before they can apply to be certified as an appraiser by EBBASA.
5. An appraiser in training can, after meeting the above criteria, and displaying adequate knowledge of the EBBASA breed standard, be allowed to sit for a written or verbal examination to be set by a panel consisting of the Chairperson, Standards officer and Senior Appraisers selected by the Standards Officer. The panel will make a recommendation to the Board after deliberating on the desirability of allowing the appraiser in training as an accredited appraiser.
6. Appraisers in training are not entitled to claim any compensation for expenses incurred to achieve the required minimum standard.
2. Appraisers
1. Appraisers will be appointed by the Standards Officer to appraise dogs at specific events and no appraiser is entitled to appraise dogs without the prior knowledge of the Standards Officer or in the event that the Standards Officer cannot be reached, with the permission of the Chairperson..
2. Appraisers should be, as far as possible, available to appraise at such events as indicated by the Standards Officer.
3. A record of the number of appraisals performed by each appraiser during each year will be kept by the Standards Officer.
4. Appraisers must annually accept compliance with the Code of Ethics for Appraisers as set from time to time.
5. Appraisers must heed all the prescriptions of the appraisal system diligently
6. Appraisers must act professionally under all circumstances.
7. All appraisers will have to prove that they appraised at least 50 dogs in the manner and to the satisfaction of the senior appraiser present before they can apply to be certified as a senior appraiser by EBBASA.
8. An appraiser can:
1. retain his status as appraiser by attending at least one training session for Appraisers per annum. Should this condition not be met, the status of the appraiser will revert back to that of Learner Appraiser after one year.
2. after meeting the above criteria, displaying an above average knowledge of the Boerboel breed, proving above average knowledge of the EBBASA breed standard, having and being able to impart to other members a detailed knowledge of the EBBASA Constitution, displaying consistent loyalty to EBBASA and consistently demonstrating interpersonal relationship of an exceptionally high standard, be invited by the EBBASA Board to sit for a written or verbal examination to be set by a panel consisting of the Chairperson, Standards officer and Senior Appraisers selected by the Standards Officer. The panel will make a recommendation to the Board after deliberating on the desirability of allowing the appraiser as an accredited senior appraiser.
3. Under exceptional circumstances, two appraisers may apply for permission to appraise at a specific event without a senior appraiser being present from the Chairperson and the Standards Officer. In such an event, no appraisal results may be made public until verified by a senior appraiser.
4. Appraisers are entitled to claim compensation for actual expenses incurred to physically perform appraisals for which they were appointed by the Standards Officer.
3. Senior Appraisers
1. In order to retain their status as Senior Appraisers, all Senior Appraisers must attend at least one training session for Appraisers per every two years. Should this condition not be met, the status of the Senior Appraiser will revert back to that of Appraiser after two years.
2. Senior appraisers can be applied as appraisers should the need arise.
3. Senior appraisers will be appointed by the Standards Officer to appraise dogs at specific events.
4. Senior appraisers should be, as far as possible, available to appraise at such events as indicated by the Standards Officer.
5. A record of the number of appraisals performed by each senior appraiser during each year will be kept by the Standards Officer.
6. Senior appraisers must annually accept compliance with the Code of Ethics for Appraisers as set from time to time.
7. Senior appraisers must heed all the prescriptions of the appraisal system diligently
8. Senior appraisers must act professionally under all circumstances.
9. A senior appraiser may apply to the Chairperson and Standards officer to appraise dogs at a specific event without any other appraisers being present.
10. 10Senior appraisers are entitled to claim compensation for actual expenses incurred to physically perform appraisals for which they were appointed by the Standards Officer.
4. Merit Awards
1. EBBASA Diamond Merit Awards will be made to all EBBASA registered dogs that attain a grading of 95% or higher and of which the owner can prove (according to the EBBASA standards) adherence to clause 16.4.5 below.
2. EBBASA Platinum Merit Awards will be made to all EBBASA registered dogs that attain a grading of between 90% and 94.99% and of which the owner can prove (according to the EBBASA standards) adherence to clause 16.4.5 below.
3. EBBASA Gold Merit Awards will be made to all EBBASA registered dogs that attain a grading of between 85% and 89,99% and of which the owner can prove (according to the EBBASA standards) adherence to clause 16.4.5 below.
4. EBBASA Silver Merit Awards will be made to all EBBASA registered dogs that attain a grading of between 80% and 84,99% and of which the owner can prove (according to the EBBASA standards) adherence to clause 16.4.5 below.
5. All applications for Merit Awards should be accompanied by proof submitted by the owner that the dog has:
1. a hip dysplasia status of FCI B1-B1 or better, or such Penn Hip grading as acceptable at the time, or better and no elbow deformity
2. no eye entropion or extropion
3. no vaginal hyperplasia in the case of adult bitches
4. been implanted with a microchip
5. constantly displayed exceptionally good temperament
5. Code of Ethics for Members
1. Every person, legal or natural, who has made an application to EBBASA for the registration or transfer of a dog, registration of a affix with EBBASA, entered, exhibited or handled a dog, officiated, judged or taken part in any show held under the EBBASA banner or name, holds membership, is a registered owner, or hold membership of any club affiliated to EBBASA shall be bound to this EBBASA Code of Ethics relating to responsible dog ownership including the keeping, welfare, breeding, selling and disposing of dogs.
2. Every person, legal or natural, who has made an application to EBBASA for the registration or transfer of a dog, registration of a affix with EBBASA, entered, exhibited or handled a dog, officiated, judged or taken part in any show held under the EBBASA banner or name, holds membership, is a registered owner, or hold membership of any club affiliated to EBBASA shall be bound to this EBBASA Code of Ethics relating to responsible dog ownership including the keeping, welfare, breeding, selling and disposing of dogs.
   
   
   1. Ensure that at all times such dogs are properly housed, watered, exercised and will receive Veterinary attention from a qualified person, as and when required;
   2. Provide adequate shelter for any dog/s kept outside the house or premises;
   3. Ensure that the exercise area of such dog/s be of sufficient size for the movement of such dog/s and to have the exercise area fenced or walled so as to restrict the movement of such dog/s to their property and that the exercise area is kept clean;
   4. Ensure that correct control is exercised with regard to statutory visitors such as municipal workers, postmen, etc, whilst recognizing at the same time that such dog is there to protect its owners and their property;
   5. Ensure that such dog/s do not cause a public nuisance to any neighbour;
   6. Not allow such dog/s to roam at large, keep their dogs on a lead, and under effective control, in all public spaces, except those especially designated for the training of dogs to return to their handlers on command;
   7. Clean up after such dog/s according to the relevant municipal regulations in any public space or space where such dog/s are being exhibited or exercised;
   8. Not knowingly misrepresent the characteristics of the breed, nor falsely advertise or mislead any person regarding the performance and/or origin and/or identity and/or genetics and/or quality and/or health and/or history of any dog;
   9. Ensure that all persons and/or organisations acquiring dogs from them clearly understand their responsibilities for the care and welfare of such dogs and they, the new owners, have the time and facilities to undertake their obligations as laid down in this Code of Ethics;
   10. Provide all persons acquiring dogs from them, whether by sale or gift or any other means, written details of all dietary and immunization requirements and / or an appropriate publication relating to such requirements and responsible dog ownership;
   11. Ensure that the correct inoculations; as required by law; are administered at the proper time;
   12. Ensure that prompt medical attention is administered should any dog become sick or injured;
   13. Not knowingly permit any pure-bred dogs, registered on the breed register to mate with a dog of a different breed; to a cross bred or to an unregistered dog of the same breed;
   14. Ensure that no puppy bred by him is released for sale until it has reached a minimum age of six (6) weeks from date of birth;
   15. Will not allow the breeding from any bitch in their ownership or care before it is twelve (12) months of age;
   16. Breed only for the purpose of improving the breed;
   17. Not knowingly sell any dog directly to any commercial dog wholesalers; retail pet dealers or directly or indirectly any dog to be given as a prize or donation in any contest of any kind;
   18. Ensure that when selling or transferring a dog that, when available, the necessary signed documents be provided to the purchaser or transferee;
   19. Ensure, especially in the case of any sale across a national border, that a contract detailing the conditions of sale, identity of the dog (Identity chip or ear tattoo), parentage, documents and certifications to be delivered, Code of Ethics and Guarantees (especially those regulating genetic imperfections, handicaps resulting from injury, improper handling, improper feeding, improper exercise, including clear descriptions of such), arrangements for replacement or refunding and all other details pertinent to the specific sale are duly recorded and witnessed;
   20. Ensure that no dog kept by them will have its ears cropped;
   21. Bring to the attention of the appropriate authority (the Association) cases of alleged fraud, dishonesty, cruelty or neglect and not commit such offences themselves;
   22. Will not engage in dog fighting.
3. Any person (legal or natural) or persons as designated in Clause 175.1 of this Code of Ethics who fails to observe any of the provisions of this Code of Ethics as detailed in Clause 17.5.2, resulting in a judgement against such person or persons in a Court of Law or a finding by the Board of the Association that indicates a transgression of the provisions of this Code, may be dealt with in terms of the Association’s Disciplinary Rules;
4. All members of the Association will be required to display the above Code of Ethics in a prominent place in their places of business and to ensure that all purchasers of dogs are issued with a copy of the Code of Ethics as an integral part of the documents recording the specific sale.
6. Code of Ethics for Appraisers
1. No appraiser should appraise dogs bred by his / her kennels, raised by them or belonging to them.
2. Should the likelihood of such an event come to the notice of any appraiser or senior appraiser, the event organiser should be notified as soon as possible to, if possible, arrange for another appraiser / senior appraiser to assist in appraising the specific dog. In the event that no stand-in appraiser is available, the results of the appraisal cannot be made known until the result for the specific dog was verified by the Standards Officer.
3. Ideally each appraisal arena should have a pre-screening official, who should ideally also be an appraiser, to:
   1. Advise the owners or handlers of obviously non-conforming dogs about the likelihood of success
   2. Inform owners and handlers of the procedure to be followed
   3. Check the accuracy and completeness of documents submitted
   4. Perform a temperament test if deemed to be necessary
4. No disputes will be allowed in the appraisal arena. Should an owner or dog handler question a decision made during the appraisal, the objector should be made aware of the proper procedure and requested to follow such.
5. Should a difference in scores allocated by an appraiser or senior appraiser arise, the ruling by the senior appraiser will stand. If still not satisfied, the appraiser can discuss the matter with the Standards Officer, whose ruling will be final and binding.
6. All objections can be made at the administrative table for attention by the appraisers after completion of all other appraisals. All appraisers present should review the objections and make rulings which shall be binding.
7. No individual appraiser should give his / her opinion of the merits of an objection.
8. All appraisers must at all times be neatly dressed, professional in their conduct and manner and loyal to EBBASA.

Top

17. BREED STANDARDS

The following is a short summary of the salient points in the EBBASA breed standard. For the complete, official Breed Standard, please request a copy of such from ebbasa@gmail.com.

1. General Appearance

1. The Boerboel is a Mollosser Mastiff type dog originating from South Africa
2. The dog should be strong and muscular in appearance

2. Size

1. Must be large but weight is not an indicator of potential functionality
2. Adult, well balanced and completely grown males should ideally be 66-70cm in height measured at the top of the withers
3. Adult males lower than 60 cm will be disqualified
4. Adult, well balanced and completely grown females should ideally be 60 -65 cm in height measured at the top of the withers
5. Adult females lower than 55 cm will be disqualified
6. Size must be in relation to weight (see description under General Condition)

3. General Proportion

1. The main structural components of the dog should show acceptable proportions to each other
2. Dog must not be “square” and should have a greater total length than total height and the relation between length and height should ideally be 10:9

4. Conformation

1. Sturdy, compact conformation to achieve the highest degree of propulsion
2. See notes on General Appearance and Size

5. Head

The head is one of the most important aspects of the Boerboel breed and represents the character of the dog. The head should be short, broad, block shaped, muscular and a slight frown must be visible on the dog’s forehead when its interest is aroused

1. Proportion
1. The length of the roof of the skull, measured from the middle of the eyelid to the end of the occupit) must be relative to the length of the nose bone in a relation of 1:1 to a maximum of 1:1.5
2. The head must widen slightly from the nose to the eyes
2. Dome of skull
1. The dome of the skull must be broad and flat on top. The general rule is to attract the dogs attention to get it to lift its ears to the “attention” position and then to gauge the “flatness” of the dome of the skull
3. Profile
1. Both the head and the muzzle must be block shaped
2. In profile, the dome of the skull should be on the same parallel plane as the nose bone.
4. Eyes
1. Expression:
1. Intelligent, attentive and “guarded”
2. Iris colour:
1. Yellow to brown coloured iris allowed
2. Blue colour iris is a disqualification
3. Positioning
1. The eyes should be horizontal and any slant will be penalised
2. The eyes must be widely spaced and look straight ahead
4. Eyelids
1. Eyelids must be firm and well pigmented
5. Spectacle area
1. The hair in the spectacle area should show adequate pigmentation
6. General:
1. The area between the eyes must be well filled and show a gentle depression.
2. Eyes must not protrude (bulge)
3. Eyes must not be deep-set
4. Third eyelid (haw) must not be visible
5. Stop
1. Defined as the drop or break in the plane from the frontal bones of the skull to the nasal bones of the muzzle.
2. The size or degree of the stop is an important element in analyzing head shape.
3. The stop must be physically present and must be typical of the Boerboel head. The average between the extremes in variations in the stop between a typical Bullterrier and a typical Boxer stop could be used as a measurement.
6. Ears
1. Shape and size:
1. The ears must be medium sized (the tip must just reach the corner of the dog’s mouth), V-shaped and of medium thickness
2. Positioning:
1. Must be high set but must still be on the sides of the head
2. Must fall away sideways and to the front, but remain against the cheek
3. General:
1. When dog shows interest, ears and roof of skull must form a straight line (See 5 b) when viewed from the front
2. Deformity of one or both ears, as a result of a viral infection or earlier injury, is acceptable.
3. Excessive rose ears are a disqualification
4. Cropped ears are a disqualification
7. Nasal bone
1. The nasal bone should ideally be between 8 and 10 cm long
2. The roof of the skull must be in relation to the nasal bone (See 5 a 1)
3. The nasal bone must be straight and narrow slightly from the eyes to the mouth
4. The nasal bone must be on the same plane as the roof of the skull (See 5 c 2)
5. A black mask on the nasal bone is optional
8. Nose
1. The leather of the nose must appear black with wide nostrils that are widely spaced
2. A liver coloured, white of bi-colour nose leather is a disqualification
9. Lips
1. The upper and lower lips must be loose and fleshy and show adequate pigmentation.
2. Under the nose, the end of the upper lip must touch the top of the bottom lip but must not substantively overlap the bottom lip
3. Viewed in profile, the flews must not extend below the lowest level of the jawbone
4. The spittoons must not hang open but cognizance must be taken of the effects of heat on the size, shape and openness of the spittoons
10. Palate
1. The palate should show adequate pigmentation
2. The palate should not be deformed (cleft palate)
11. Cheeks
1. The cheeks must be well filled and should create the fusion between the muzzle and the skull.
12. Jaws
1. The jaws must reflect the characteristics of the Boerboel breed, be block shaped, strong and show good muscular development.
2. The jaws must not be lacking in depth and must not be “pointed”
13. Teeth
1. The teeth must be white, well formed and correctly spaced
2. The dog should ideally have a complete set of 42 teeth and missing teeth can lead to penalisation
3. Ideally, the dog should have a “scissor” bite (Outside of bottom teeth fits flush against the inside of the upper teeth)
4. An under bite, where the lower jaw protrudes further than the upper jaw, of less than 1cm is acceptable. Should it exceed 1 cm, the dog will be disqualified
5. Any visible sign of an overbite, where the upper jaw protrudes further than the lower jaw, will lead to disqualification.

6. Neck

1. The neck must gradually increase in width from the head to the shoulders and be muscular to the extent that it shows a visible muscle bow
2. The dewlap should be loose but the skin across the chest, especially between the front legs, should be tight
3. The neck must be in proportion to the rest of the dog and an excessively long or short neck must be seen as a serious flaw which could lead to disqualification

7. Back (total span)

1. The back is defined as the area from the first chest vertebrae to the last rib bone
2. The back must ideally have a length proportion of 2:1 to the loin
3. The top line of the back must not be a “table top” but must show a slight indentation behind the shoulders. A too prominent or deep indentation is a sign of inadequate rib and back development.
4. The back of all dogs should show prominent back muscles whilst adult males should show a “saddle” behind the shoulder blades consisting of muscle.
5. The back must not be “round”. A rounded back is a sign of inadequate rib and back development.
6. Viewed from the front or the rear, the back should be straight, broad and in proportion to the rest of the dog

8. Torso

1. Front legs
1. The front legs should be thick (substantive girth), strong and muscular
2. Seen from any angle, the front legs must be as straight as possible and vertical to the plane of the ground.
3. The elbows, wrists and paws must not turn inwards or outwards
4. The elbows should ideally be certified by an acceptable authority as being free from displasia or at least be within acceptable norms
5. The pasterns must be short, sturdy and form a slight angle to both the pastern joint and the front leg
6. The distance between the knee joint and hock joint must not be too long to allow a well balanced dog, supple, fluid movement
7. The upper arm must show good, visible muscular development
2. Front feet
1. The front feet should be large, well cushioned and rounded in shape
2. The dog must have strong, short nails of any colour but light coloured nails could be interpreted as a sign of inadequate pigmentation
3. The front feet must be aligned close to straight to the front but it is recognised that most large dogs breeds show a slight turn-out of their front feet
3. Shoulders
1. The shoulders must not be to erect and show good, visible muscle definition
2. “Loose” shoulder blades are a fault and will be penalised. The lay to, or distance between the withers, determines the motion and flexion of the neck and head and can seriously influence balance and movement and should therefore ideally not be less than 70mm.
4. Chest
1. The chest must be strong and broad
2. Viewed in profile, the chest should have a depth that extends below the elbow joints of the dog
3. The ribs should be well formed and barrel shaped

9. Back and croup

1. The back and croup of the dog, defined as the area from the last rib bone to the tail must be firm, strong and show visible muscular development. The croup half must not hang or droop in adult dogs
2. Loin
1. The loin is defined as the area from the rib cage to the pelvis
2. The loin must be short and ideally have a length proportion of 1:2 to the back
3. Croup
1. The croups of younger dogs have a tendency to slope and will not be penalised
2. The croups of adult dogs must not “hang” as it is a sign of inadequate back development.
4. Belly
1. The belly must be hairless and, in the case of female dogs, ideally have at least 8 nipples
2. The belly should ideally show adequate pigmentation
5. Upper hind leg
1. The upper hind leg must be well developed with prominent, visible musculature
2. The inside of the upper hind leg must be hairless
6. Lower hind leg
1. The lower hind leg must be well developed with prominent, visible musculature both on the inside and the outside of the leg
7. Knees
1. The knees should be strong, firm and show correct angulation
8. Heels
1. Heel joints to be strong, firm, relatively short, strong, thick and parallel to each other
2. Heel joints should be bent through an angle of 45º
9. Hind paws
1. Dew claws should ideally be removed
2. The hind paws must be slightly smaller than the front paws, well cushioned, rounded and point straight forward
3. The nails must be short and strong with a slight curve.
4. The nails may be of any colour but light coloured nails could be interpreted as a sign of inadequate pigmentation
10. Tail
1. The tail must be positioned high and must be straight
2. In countries where the practice is allowed, the tail could be docked at the third joint. In countries where the practice of tail docking is not allowed, long tails will be accepted
11. Sexual organs
1. Sexual organs must be well developed
1. Males must have two well developed testicles
2. Females should ideally have at least eight nipples
3. The vulva must be firm in female dogs
2. Scars or related injuries limiting sexual performance will be penalised
3. The skin and hair around sexual organs should show adequate pigmentation
4. Females with obvious signs of vaginal hyperplasia will be disqualified
5. Females with signs of corrective surgery on vaginal hyperplasia not supported by a letter from the surgeon certifying the seriousness of the defect will be disqualified
12. Anus
1. The anus should show adequate pigmentation

10. Coat

1. The coat of the dog should be dense, smooth and short.
1. Long hair is a disqualification
2. Curly hair is a disqualification
3. Long and uncharacteristic whiskers such as those characterising other dog breeds is a disqualification
2. Colour
1. All colour variations ranging are acceptable subject to the following:
1. Total area of white (poorly pigmented) skin may not exceed 33%
2. Multi colour dogs will be accepted as long as the dominant colour is not white and the dog shows adequate pigmentation, especially on the lips, palate, skin and hair around both eyes, anus and sex organs.
3. “Powder blue”, very light yellow, very light fawn and other lightly pigmented dogs will be appraised based on the amount of pigmentation on all key areas, “spotted” dogs will be appraised based on the amount of pigmentation, similarity of colouring to other dog breeds and number and mix of colours and “black” dogs will be appraised on the dog’s Boerboel characteristics.
4. All possible disputes and case where doubt exist regarding colour should only be appraised by a Senior Appraiser, photographic evidence must be collected and in all cases be referred to the Standards Officer for a final recommendation.
3. Pigmentation
1. A black mask on the nasal bone is optional
2. All dogs should ideally show dark pigmentation on their skin underneath the hair
3. Weak or inadequate pigmentation will be heavily penalised and could lead to disqualification
4. Appearance
1. Old scars resulting from declared, acceptable surgical procedures, accidents or work factors are irrelevant and will not be penalised as long as performance is not limited.

11. General condition

1. The presented animal must be in a good general condition and should not be obese to the extent that muscular development and actual girth of the bone structure cannot be determined. In the case of the presentation of an obese dog, the dog will not be accepted for appraisal until such time as the problem is rectified
2. The weight of the presented dog must be in relation to size of the dog
3. Any dog with a physical handicap, excluding deafness, which was not the result of an earlier injury, will be disqualified.

12. Movement

1. The movement of a dog is the ultimate test for correct conformation
2. The hind legs of the dog should provide the main source of propulsion
3. The dog should show suppleness, nimbleness and agility
4. The dog should show the longest possible strides achievable considering its body length and have an effective ground-covering pace
5. The dog, and the handler, should be able to maintain an adequate pace for the appraiser to properly evaluate the dog.
6. Scars or injuries limiting movement will be penalised

13. Temperament

1. Boerboels are known for their fearless character, high intelligence and exceptional staying power and stamina.
2. The dog must show loyalty to its master and obedience to commands (even if given by a handler).
3. Boerboels are known for their threat perception and guarding instincts
4. Boerboels must accept children and not pose a threat to them or other persons that do not pose a threat to the dog, its owner or his property.
5. Boerboels must have an intelligent and trainable nature.
6. Temperament testing, as approved by the EBBASA Board, can be applied at any appraisal and dogs can be either referred for obedience training or disqualified as a result of aggression or disobedience

14. Penalisation

1. Behaviour
1. i. Disobedience
2. Build and conformation
1. Lanky built
2. Too short legs
3. Male dogs over 70 cm in height measured at the top of the withers
4. Female dogs over 65 cm in height measured at the top of the withers
5. Square build where height and length is equal
6. Not carrying the physical characteristics of their sex
3. Head
1. Mild entropion or ectropion
2. Bulging eyes
3. Deep set eyes
4. Third eyelid (haw) visible
5. Upper lip too long
6. Jaws lacking in depth
7. Pointy jaws
8. Teeth: An under bite of more than 1 cm
4. Body
1. “Loose” shoulder blades
2. Too narrow chest
3. Back showing a prominent indentation behind the shoulders.
4. A round back
5. A hollow back
6. Drooping or hanging croup
7. Bandy legs
8. Dewclaws not removed
9. Cow heels
10. Sickle heels
11. Crooked tail
5. Weak or inadequate pigmentation
6. Scars or injuries limiting movement
7. Obesity or under-weight relative to size

15. Disqualification

1. Behaviour
1. Aggressive and uncontrollable
2. Exceptionally scared or timid
2. Build and conformation
1. Any sign of any other dog breed
2. Any visible fault that hampers proper movement
3. Extremely short legs
4. Males lower than 60 cm
5. Females lower than 55 cm
6. Any serious deviation from the breed conformation
3. Heads
1. Blue eyes
2. Serious entropion or ectropion
3. Serious rose ears
4. “Peak” or upright ears
5. “Hanging” ears
6. Liver coloured, white of bi-colour nose
7. A narrow, too long or sharply pointed muzzle
8. Inability to keep tongue in mouth
9. Excessively long or short neck
10. A noticeable overbite
11. Whiskers such as those characteristic of other dog breeds
4. Body
1. Long hair
2. Curly hair
3. Total white coat or skin on dog exceeds 33%
4. Males without two well developed testicles
5. Females with obvious signs of vaginal hyperplasia
6. Females with signs of corrective surgery on vaginal hyperplasia not supported by a letter from the surgeon certifying the seriousness of the defect.
7. Any dog with a physical handicap, excluding deafness, which was not the result of an earlier injury.