What causes the snow-white coloration in the White Shepherd, and how does the UKC standard view slight variations like light cream?
Answer
It stems from a recessive gene, and slight variations are acceptable but not preferred.
The distinctive pure white coat color of the White Shepherd originates from a recessive gene carried within the German Shepherd gene pool; this genetic factor does not inherently compromise the dog's health or working capacity. While the UKC standard mandates a pure white coat as the goal, minor deviations are tolerated within acceptable parameters. Specifically, shades such as very light cream or even a light biscuit tan are acknowledged as permissible variations, although the pure white shade remains the aspiration for conformation to the standard.
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