Coat colour, extension(E-Locus)
Also known as: Extension Locus · MC1R gene · Gelb-Faktor · Yellow-Red Coat Color · Extension-Lokus · …
Overview
What it is
The Extension locus, also known as the E Locus or MC1R gene, is a genetic location that controls pigment production in a dog's hair follicles and skin. It acts as a biological switch, determining whether the body produces dark pigment, called eumelanin, or yellow-to-red pigment, called pheomelanin. This is a normal genetic variation that influences physical appearance rather than a medical disease.
How it presents
This trait is visible from birth, causing dogs with two copies of the recessive variant to display a yellow, red, or cream-colored coat. It does not cause any physical symptoms, health issues, or clinical signs of illness.
Treatment
No medical treatment or intervention is necessary, as this is a completely harmless coat color variation. There are no associated veterinary costs, resulting in a lifetime cost of 0 EUR.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
E-Locus (MC1R) DNA-Test(E-Locus)
Primary testDNA testEin molekularbiologischer DNA-Test untersucht das MC1R-Gen auf spezifische Varianten, um die Ausprägung von dunklem und hellem Pigment im Hundefell zu bestimmen.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
2 of 2 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Coat colour, extension?
The Extension locus, also known as the E Locus or MC1R gene, is a genetic location that controls pigment production in a dog's hair follicles and skin. It acts as a biological switch, determining whether the body produces dark pigment, called eumelanin, or yellow-to-red pigment, called pheomelanin. This is a normal genetic variation that influences physical appearance rather than a medical disease.
How is Coat colour, extension tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), E-Locus (MC1R) DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Picardy Spaniel, Eurasier.

