There is more than one genetic reason for white horses and while some of them are from white patterns, greying or the cream dilution, there is a surprising number of genetic ways a horse can be white.
Dominant White Mutations
As mentioned previously, a white horse can come from a variety of different genetic combinations some of the dominant white mutations are even lethal in equines. Their coloring ranges from pure white to an animal with extensive white markings on the face, legs and/or belly, with possible roaning. Eyes may be blue or brown and skin can be pink, there are quite a few variations and we are over-simplifying, but it’s quite complex.
Unlike animals with a grey gene, dominant white horses are born white, or mostly white and pigment usually disappears in the first few years.
Dominant White Examples
Pinto PatternsIn the sabino family of patterns, animals can be pure white with pink skin and often considered ‘true whites’.
Appaloosa PatternsThe maximum expression of the Leopard Complex, creating an animal that is pure white with a few colored spots in their coat.
Camarillo whiteFound exclusively in the Camarillo White Horse breed, which produces a pure white animal with a white mane and tail.
UncategorizedThe page where we park a variety of possible dominant white horse images we haven’t found a home for just yet.