C-Locus (OCA4) - Dobermann

General description

A genetic variant of the SLC45A2 gene is associated with oculocutaneous albinism in Doberman pinscher dogs, also known as white Doberman pinscher (WDP) dogs. The genetic variant causes an inherited disorder of melanin biosynthesis, so that WDPs have “white” (cream-colored) coat color, blue eyes with pale irises and pink noses and lips. Most of the WDPs today have inherited the genetic variant from the first white Doberman Pinscher, Queen Sheba (born in 1976), and all descendants of Sheba registered with AKC have a ‘’WZ’’ prefix (Z-listing) on their registration numbers. WDPs are sensitive to bright light and show photophobia. Multiple reports indicate a higher frequency of skin tumors, nevi and vision defects at WDPs compared to standard colored Doberman pinschers. However, WDPs are not deaf and there seems to be no correlation between WDPs and bleeding diathesis or immune system defects. The genetic variant is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.