Horse Color Genetics
Etalon DNA tests include over 60 equine coat color and pattern tests for all horse colors, patterns, white variations, and modifiers across all breeds. We are continually expanding our equine color testing offerings as new discoveries are made and published.
Dun / Non-Dun
Dun (D) is a dilution that affects both black and red pigment types. Two non-dun (nd1 & nd2) variants have been discovered, with nd1 being associated with primitive markings (such as a characteristic dorsal stripe) in non-dilute horses, and nd2 showing neither dilution nor primitive markings.
IP/Brindle
Incontinentia Pigmenti (IP) is a brindle-like appearance found only in female horses. Affected male embryos die during development in utero. Ip foals develop pruritic, exudative lesions soon after booth. The affected regions progress into wart-like lesions and areas of alopecia (hair loss), with occasional wooly hair re-growth. Affected horses display streaks of darker and lighter coat coloration from birth.
Lethal White Overo
Lethal White Overo is a recessive trait characterized by patches of white bordered or “framed” by normal pigmentation. It is usually accompanied by blue eyes and generally white patterning does not cross the topline. Homozygous foals (LWO/LWO) are born completely white and with megacolon, an abnormal dilation of colon which necessitates immediate euthanasia.