German Shepherd Color Genetics Chart
In the color genetics of the German Shepherd, Sable (aw aw) is the dominate color. Then there is Black and Tan (as as), Bi color (at at), and Black (a a) which is recessive. Those are the standard and recognized colors by the SV.
The SV standard, originally set up by Max von Stephanitz the creator of the German Shepherd, is the standard on to which all responsible breeders abide by. There are. Do you mean White GSDs? White is a simple recessive masking gene.
Bicolor German Shepherd
A White GSD carries genes for normal coat colors, but a separate gene on a separate locus can mask the normal coat color and make the entire dog white. It is NOT true that thre is "a lot of inbreeding" in them, nor is it a mutation. From the traditional black and tan coloration favored by early German Shepherd enthusiasts to more unconventional hues like liver and panda, each color tells a story of heritage, genetics, and individuality.
Color Examples Bicolor Black and Cream Bicolor Black and Red Bicolor Black and Tan Bicolor Blue and Cream Bicolor Blue and Red Bicolor Blue and Tan Bicolor Fawn and Cream Bicolor Fawn and Red Bicolor Liver and Cream Bicolor Liver and Red Bicolor Liver and Tan Sable Black and Cream Sable Black and Red Sable Blue and Cream Sable Blue and Red. Let' talk about the German Shepherd dog color genetics. When we talk genetics, we talk about the ENGINE ROOM, because that is where most of the external things you see happen.
German Shepherd Color Genetics
I've seen the confusion and misinformation around German Shepherd Dog (GSD) colors - especially when it comes to what's "approved," what's "rare," and what's simply misunderstood. I see lots of fliers. German Shepherds are a beloved breed, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance.
While many envision the classic black and tan coat when they think of a German Shepherd, these dogs actually come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Understanding these variations not only adds to the appreciation of this breed but also informs potential owners about the genetics and care. Discover all German shepherd colors from classic black and tan to rare sable, bi-color, and white variations.
German Shepherd Colors Chart
Complete guide to coat genetics and patterns. Get to know the various coat colors that German Shepherds can have with our German Shepherd Color Chart. Use it to help identify your German Shepherd's unique coat color and about the breed's appearance.
His 1989 book GENETICS OF THE DOG, his 1992 book PRACTICAL GENETICS FOR DOG BREEDERS, and his 1991 book THE GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG, A GENETIC HISTORY are great references. He does an excellent job of explaining the cases where the data is unclear or contradictory. There seems to be 11 major gene locations that determine the color and pattern of a dog.
Understanding the genetic basis of German Shepherd colors requires knowledge of the genes responsible for coat pigmentation. The main genes involved include the Agouti gene, which determines the pattern of pigmentation, and the Melanocortin 1 Receptor gene, or MC1R, which controls the distribution and intensity of the pigment.
