Panda White Spotting is an autosomal dominant trait caused by the absence of pigment due to absence of skin melanocytes and not by failure in the biochemical reaction required for pigment synthesis. The degree of white spotting in the affected dogs ranges from tiny white spots up to completely white animals. The pattern includes white spotting on the face, ventral abdomen, feet and tip of the tail. It has been discovered that the mutations in the KIT gene govern the dominant spotting phenotype that spontaneously appears in German Shepherds. Across species, white spotting can be associated with many other diseases, such as anemia, deafness, mast cell deficiency, infertility and memory deficits. Affected heterozygous dogs do not have any health problems related to the trait, meanwhile in the affected homozygous dogs the Panda White Spotting is lethal and results in early embryonic death.

Inheritance: autosomal dominant

Mutation: KIT gene

Genetic test: The method used for genetic testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. DNA testing can be done at any age.

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.