The Golden Retriever is one of the most beloved and popular dog breeds. They are known for their friendly, outgoing temperaments and lush golden coats. However, some Golden Retrievers exhibit a pale, almost white coat instead of the classic golden hue. Where does this white coat color come from genetically?
Understanding Canine Genetics
To understand how white Golden Retrievers occur, we first need to grasp some basic canine genetics. Coat color is determined by two pigments: eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red). All dogs have variants of these two pigments. The specific pigment genes a dog inherits from their parents determine their fur color.
Golden Retrievers have three main genes that control their coat color:
- B Gene – This gene controls the production of black pigment. All Golden Retrievers have bb which means they do not produce black pigment. This allows the other genes to dictate color.
- E Gene – The E gene controls the production of yellow pigment. Golden Retrievers have ee which results in the yellow shades.
- C Gene – This gene modifies the yellow pigment. CC produces darker red shades, Cc creates golden hues, and cc dilutes to pale yellow or white.
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The Origins of White Goldens
White Golden Retriever originated from English/British bloodlines. English-bred Golden Retrievers traditionally had broader heads, calmer personalities, and lighter coats than their American counterparts. Through selective breeding programs, English Golden Retriever breeders began producing dogs with the cc genotype that expressed the pale coat.
While the white coat was a novelty at first, many breeders purposely bred for the light color as buyer demand increased. Today, British and European breeders focus primarily on producing the white English “creme” Golden Retrievers.
Are White Goldens Purebred?
Yes, white Golden Retrievers are purebred dogs that meet the breed standard according to kennel clubs like the AKC. They are not a separate breed from traditional golden-colored Golden Retrievers. The only genetic difference is the variant at the C gene that causes the diluted coat color.
All other qualities like temperament, build, and markings adhere to the Golden Retriever breed standard. Reputable breeders will also perform genetic testing to ensure their dogs are free of issues like hip dysplasia. As long as the sire and dam are registered Golden Retrievers, the puppies are purebred regardless of coat shade.
Finding a Responsible White Golden Breeder
It’s important to find a responsible breeder when looking for a white Golden Retriever puppy. Avoid breeders who make claims like their dogs being “rare,” “exotic,” or charge exorbitant prices. Look for breeders who:
- AKC or kennel club registered
- Perform genetic and health testing
- Provide parent pedigrees
- Have a clean, professional kennel facility
- Socialize and train pups
- Offer health guarantees
You may pay a bit more for a pup from an accredited breeder, but you’re ensuring a healthy, sound temperament puppy.
Conclusion
While a white coat is not as common as the classic golden hue, white Golden Retrievers are legitimate purebred dogs. Through selective breeding programs, English breeders propagated the genetics that produce the pale coat while maintaining all other qualities of a Golden. As long as reputable breeding practices are followed, white Goldens are just as purebred as their golden counterparts.
