What genetic factor is responsible for the Weimaraner coat's unique color dilution?

Answer

A dilution gene acting upon black pigment.

The striking coloration of the Weimaraner coat, which varies across shades of gray, is a direct consequence of a specific genetic mechanism occurring at a particular locus on the genome. This mechanism involves a dilution gene. This gene does not introduce a new color but rather acts upon the dog's foundational pigment—which is black. By diluting this black pigment, the resulting expression is the characteristic silvery-gray that defines the breed standard. Breeders must be acutely aware that while selecting intensely for this visually appealing trait, improper line breeding management could inadvertently concentrate other undesirable genetic factors lurking within the gene pool alongside the necessary dilution mechanism.

What genetic factor is responsible for the Weimaraner coat's unique color dilution?

Related Questions

Why is the Weimaraner instantly recognizable and nicknamed "The Gray Ghost"?What was the original, defining goal for developing the Weimaraner in the early 19th century courts?What critical working requirement did the German Weimaraner Club mandate before permitting registration after 1897?What significant environmental shift required the Weimaraner to adapt its primary hunting roles across Europe?When did the Weimaraner officially achieve recognition status with the American Kennel Club (AKC)?What popular descriptive term characterizes the Weimaraner's intense need for owner proximity and engagement?What genetic factor is responsible for the Weimaraner coat's unique color dilution?How do the primary priorities of Weimaraner Field lines often differ from Show lines?What specific inherited eye issue, alongside hip dysplasia, must modern Weimaraner breeders manage through genetic testing?Why can an unstimulated Weimaraner quickly develop behavioral problems in a domestic setting?
HistoryevolutionDogbreedWeimaraner