Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Genes affecting coat colour and pattern in domestic dogs: a review
1Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7N 5A8. sheila.schmutz@usask.ca
Abstract:
Tremendous progress has been made in identifying genes involved in pigmentation in dogs in the past few years. Comparative genomics has both aided and benefited from these findings. Seven genes that cause specific coat colours and/or patterns in dogs have been identified: melanocortin 1 receptor, tyrosinase related protein 1, agouti signal peptide, melanophilin, SILV (formerly PMEL17), microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and beta-defensin 103. Although not all alleles have been yet identified at each locus, DNA tests are available for many. The identification of these alleles has provided information on interactions in this complex set of genes involved in both pigmentation and neurological development. The review also discusses pleiotropic effects of some coat colour genes as they relate to disease. The alleles found in various breeds have shed light on some potential breed development histories and phylogenetic relationships. The information is of value to dog breeders who have selected for and against specific colours since breed standards and dog showing began in the late 1800s. Because coat colour is such a visible trait, this information will also be a valuable teaching resource.
Related Concept Videos
Incomplete Dominance
Epistasis
Epistasis Analysis
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Genetic Lingo
Hardy-Weinberg Principle

