Harlequin coat color(H)
Also known as: Harlequin pattern · Harlekin-Faktor · H-Locus · PSMB7 mutation · Coat colour, harlequin
Overview
What it is
The harlequin coat pattern is a genetic trait that modifies the merle gene, affecting the pigment-producing cells in a dog's skin and hair. This autosomal dominant modifier causes some of the diluted grey areas of a merle coat to become white, leaving irregular, torn black patches. While viable puppies inherit only one copy of this gene, inheriting two copies is lethal during embryonic development.
How it presents
Owners will notice a distinctive coat pattern consisting of a white base with irregular, torn black patches, which is fully visible from birth. Because this is a normal color variation in viable dogs, it does not cause any health issues or physical symptoms.
Treatment
Since this is a harmless coat color variation and not a medical condition, no treatment is required. There are no associated veterinary costs, resulting in a lifetime treatment cost of 0 EUR.
How it's tested
Harlekin-Lokus DNA-Test(H-Lokus)
Primary testDNA testEin molekularbiologischer DNA-Test zum Nachweis der Mutation im PSMB7-Gen, die in Kombination mit dem Merle-Gen für die Harlekin-Fellzeichnung verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Harlequin coat color?
The harlequin coat pattern is a genetic trait that modifies the merle gene, affecting the pigment-producing cells in a dog's skin and hair. This autosomal dominant modifier causes some of the diluted grey areas of a merle coat to become white, leaving irregular, torn black patches. While viable puppies inherit only one copy of this gene, inheriting two copies is lethal during embryonic development.
How is Harlequin coat color tested?
Tests currently in our database: Harlekin-Lokus DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.