How does the White Shepherd pigment system differ from true albinism?

They possess normal pigmentation in their eyes, nose leather, and paw pads

The crucial distinction between the White Shepherd and true albinism lies in the function of the underlying pigmentary system. True albinism is characterized by a complete lack of melanin throughout the body, which results in observable pink skin and eyes that appear red or pink due to visible blood vessels. In contrast, the White Shepherd possesses a recessive gene that prevents pigment expression specifically on the hair shafts, allowing the pigmentary system to function normally elsewhere. This means that key identifying features such as the eyes, nose leather, and paw pads maintain normal pigmentation, typically appearing dark or black, confirming that they are not albino.