The subject
of white coat color is confusing to perhaps a majority, even experienced dog - show exhibitors.
Variants in TYR were previously reported to be related with
white coat color in domestic cats as well as with a form of albinism in people.
There is a known link
between white coat color, blue eyes and deafness - but since the coat and eye color can be caused by different genes it means that only some blue eyed whites are deaf.
About half of all dogs show some form of white spotting which can range from a few white marks in the Bernese mountain dog to
extreme white coat color in Dalmatians and white boxer.
In the article, the researchers show that
the white coat color in dogs is caused by mutations in the MITF gene that is crucial for normal development of pigment cells.
Another rumor that has spread throughout North America is that the White Miniature Schnauzers were fraudulently bred up from West Highland White Terriers to get
the white coat color.»
Samoyeds should have nice dark pigment around the eyes, nose, and lips despite
the white coat color.
There is an established link between
the white coat color, blue eyes and deafness, rather than blindness.
White coat color is a disqualification for this breed.
In the past, a double merle Catahoula, which has been phenotypically identified by many breeders as a dog displaying more than a 70 %
white coat color, may actually have a full colored coat.
Later though
the white coat color fell into disfavor, but fortunately some breeders continued to breed a few white specimens.
Appearance Solid liver and
white coat color.