Melanistic mask

Trait overview

Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R), also known as the Extension locus, is a gene that is responsible for producing pigments that are eumelanin (dark brown/black) or pheomelanin (reddish-yellow). There are seven known variants of this gene, with variant Em being associated with the melanistic mask. If the Em genotype is present, the dog will form a melanistic face mask marking. Visibility of the mask will be dependent on the base coat and the surrounding coat color.

Gene name(s)

MC1R

Inheritance

Dominant

More common in the following breeds

Leonberger, Malinois

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12692165/