The White Patch on Dobermans: Origins and Implications for Conformation
White patch exaggerated for image impact purposes. The white chest patches tend to be narrower and somewhat odd-shaped.
Dobermans are known for their sleek, powerful build and distinct coloration; typically, a black or red coat with rust-colored markings is the most popular, especially in conformation. However, some Dobermans sport an unexpected feature: a white patch on their chest. Some also have white markings on their feet or very rarely in other random spots. The small splash of white on the chest has intrigued breeders, owners, and enthusiasts alike, leading to various theories about its origin and implications for conformation.
The Possible Origins of the White Patch
Genetic Factors
One primary theory attributes the white patch to genetic variations. The Doberman breed has a complex genetic history, with influences from several breeds, including the Rottweiler, Greyhound, and Weimaraner. The appearance of a white patch could be a throwback to one of these ancestral breeds, where white markings were more common.
The Role of the Kit Gene
The Kit gene mutation's influence on melanocyte behavior is a well-documented mechanism that explains white patches in various animals. This gene affects the movement and multiplication of pigment cells, leading to random patterns of pigmentation. This mechanism is supported by research showing how mutations in the Kit gene cause pigment cells to move faster but multiply less efficiently, resulting in unpigmented areas. However, usually, the patches within this genetic mutation are not as isolated and small as seen in the Doberman.
While this mechanism may be at play in Dobermans, it is not the only factor to consider. The genetic history of Dobermans involves contributions from several breeds that may also have contributed genes that affect pigmentation.
Historical Breeding Practices
Historically, some breeders may have allowed dogs with minor white markings to participate in breeding programs. Although modern breeding standards often emphasize uniform coloration, earlier practices were less stringent, which could have contributed to the persistence of the white patch in some bloodlines.
Mutation
Another possibility is a spontaneous genetic mutation. Even with careful breeding, mutations can occur, leading to unexpected traits like a white patch. While these mutations are relatively rare, they can introduce variations that become more noticeable over generations.
Great Dane Influence
Many experienced Doberman enthusiasts believe that the white chest spots may stem from Great Danes, which were among the breeds believed to be used in the creation of the Doberman. The idea that Karl Friedrich Louis Doberman used Great Danes, particularly blue Great Danes, in his first breedings is documented in Otto Göller’s accounts of the breed’s origin. Göller was Louis Doberman’s successor and advanced the breed years after Doberman died. Moreover, Prof. Dr. Emil Hauck, a scientist, judge, veterinarian, and lover of dogs, also believed that crossbreeding with Great Danes was at play in the early days of the breed. Hauck’s opinion is important since he created the kynological collection that nowadays is the fundament of the Austrian Dog Museum. Hence, he would have extended a great deal into researching breeds’ origins. As such, early breed development is thought to have involved Great Danes due to their size and strength. While this theory is popular, concrete genetic evidence is lacking, but historical accounts suggest the involvement of Great Danes and other breeds. Looking at the Great Dane’s markings, it is easy to spot why it would make sense that the white remnants on some Dobermans’ chests are a wave from the suspected Dane origins of this breed.
The White Patch and the Z Factor
It is important to clarify that the white chest patch seen in some Dobermans does not stem from the Z factor. The Z factor refers to a genetic trait associated with albinism in Dobermans, resulting in a white coat, blue eyes, and often a slew of health issues. The white patch on the chest is a separate (genetic) occurrence and should not be confused with the Z factor. The presence of a white patch is typically a benign cosmetic trait and does not carry the health implications associated with the Z factor. However, white Dobermans are considered disqualifying in conformation.
Desirability in Conformation
American Standards
The American Kennel Club (AKC) and other major kennel clubs have specific standards for Dobermans. According to the AKC, Dobermans should have a coat that is “short, hard, thick, and close-lying” with “distinct rust markings sharply defined.” The AKC standard specifies that any white patch on the chest should not exceed 1/2 square inch. A Doberman with a larger white patch will be penalized more heavily in conformation shows. However, when you look at Doberman Forums and Conformation groups, you will find that breeders usually try to outbreed the white chest markings as they’re deemed undesirable despite the AKC’s lenience. Moreover, any other area with white markings is considered a fault (not a disqualification) and will likely not win the owner any prizes.
European Standards
According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standards, white spots on a Doberman are considered a disqualifying fault. This means that a Doberman with a white patch on its chest would be disqualified from conformation shows under FCI rules. The FCI emphasizes that the breed should have a uniform color with clearly defined rust markings, and any deviation from this, including white patches, is not permissible.
Based on this difference, some Doberman breeders suggest to owners that the white patch on the chest indicates that the dog comes from an American line. Given that European conformation disqualifies white (chest) markings in Dobermans, this argument is easy to understand. European breeders that breed for conformation would have been more likely to outbreed the white markings than American breeders. However, when you look through Doberman Forums and Groups on Facebook, you will find that there are still papered European Dobermans with small white chest markings.
Conformation Judging
In the conformation ring, judges assess dogs based on how closely they adhere to the breed standard. While a dime-sized white patch is not a disqualification or fault in American shows, it can detract from the dog's overall appearance. Judges may still view the patch as a deviation from the ideal Doberman appearance in comparison to dogs that are clear of white, potentially affecting the dog’s placement in competitions. In European shows, the presence of a white patch would lead to disqualification.
Breeder Perspectives
From a breeder’s perspective, the presence of a white patch can be a contentious issue. Some breeders strive to eliminate any traits that deviate from the breed standard, even white markings on the chest, despite them being to some degree considered permissible. Others may view the patch as a minor imperfection, focusing more on the dog’s overall health, temperament, and conformation. That is, however, not to say that breeders concerned about the white chest mark do not care about the dogs’ health and temperament. Two things can be true at the same time.
Implications for Owners
Health Considerations
For most Doberman owners, a white patch is primarily an aesthetic concern and does not affect the dog’s health or temperament. It's essential to remember that this marking is purely cosmetic and does not affect the dog's well-being or suitability as a companion.
Show Aspirations
If you want to show your Doberman in conformation events, it’s important to know how a white patch might impact your dog’s performance. It may still be considered undesirable at a dime size and a fault in American shows if it exceeds 1/2 square inch. However, in European shows governed by the FCI, it would lead to disqualification. Consulting with experienced breeders and handlers can provide valuable insights into how best to present your dog in the ring if your pup has the white marking.
Embracing Uniqueness
For many Doberman enthusiasts, a white patch is simply a unique characteristic that sets their dog apart. Embracing these small variations can enhance the bond between owner and pet, celebrating the individual quirks that make each dog special. Many owners also report that their puppies somewhat outgrew the white patch on their chests. In our experience, ‘outgrowing’ usually means the spot stays the same size but becomes less noticeable as the proportions of the rest of the dog change. Obviously, a conformation judge will know what to look for in a Doberman, but if it becomes less noticeable, it might not detract from their judgment.
Myth or Reality: White Hairs from Biting?
If your pup is like our Persephone, it has a few random white single hairs on its body. Maybe you were told that the random white hairs are due to litter mates biting and the hair growing back white. This is a common belief, but it’s largely considered a myth when there is single white hair regrowth. While trauma to the skin can cause hair to grow back white in some instances, random white hairs are more likely due to genetic factors or minor mutations. These individual white hairs are generally harmless and not a cause for concern.
Notable Dobermans with White Markings
While white markings are generally considered a fault and less desirable in conformation, there have been anecdotes of Dobermans with small, permissible white patches doing ok in American conformation shows. However, specific examples of high-profile winners with such markings are more or less unseen due to the emphasis on strict adherence to breed standards and the fact that most Dobermans in the conformation ring do not sport any white patches. The AKC's allowance for minor white patches not exceeding 1/2 square inch gives some flexibility, but typically, breeders and handlers prefer to avoid any white markings to maximize a dog's competitive potential.
Stories Perpetuated as Legends
When you are part of the Doberman Forums online, you will see many interesting answers to questions regarding our beloved breed. The internet does not disappoint with stories behind the white patches. For instance, there is what appears to be a nifty marketing ploy from a now disappeared Backyard Breeder called ‘Wold Class Dobermans.” They charged $4999 for a dog with a white patch on the chest in 2008 and to justify their price the story goes as follows:
“The Chest of Immortality - Champion / Warrior Spirit! It is said that a white tiger and a wolf 3000 years ago fought. There were no losers just champion winners, both left injured form the spectacular battle. After the battle the tiger and wolf were both considered to be champions possessing the warrior spirit in their packs. It is said from the battle blood and tears were exchanged from tiger to wolf, from wolf to tiger. This was the climatic point of the development of the white tiger gene in a dog breed. Over the years the wolf has become more and more domesticated and the wolf has been bred into many of the new dog breeds of today. That mainly being the working class. Every once in a while a rare one in a million white tiger gene will appear in a working class puppy. THIS IS A SUPER SPECIAL PUPPY. It is said that it will be able to do anything. It will have the Champion / Warrior spirit. It will be feared by all other dog breeds for they will sense the white tiger in it. It will live forever. This kind of Doberman Pinscher is extremely rare and almost price list. There have been some in Germany and Russia that have sold in the 75,000 to 90,000. Anyone who owns this superior highest level of white tiger doberman pinscher is sure to get the respect that it command. This rare one of a kind is more of an investment for the owner that will never lose its value. If the dog is professionally trained it will only increase the value of the dog. If the dog competes and undoubtedly will win that will also increase its value. It is a win, win situation with this rare one of a million kind of white tiger doberman pinscher puppy. We are ask 4,999.00 for the one we have produce. That is only two times the value of one of our Highly Superior World Class Doberman Pinschers.”
Another spiritually inclined idea is that the Dobermans who feature these white spots have been kissed by angels, but in our research, we could only find one reference to this idea regarding Doberman Pinschers stemming from a recent entry in a Doberman Forum. Who came up with this idea for Dobermans is questionable. However, the background for this idea may stem from Christianity and the Middle Ages. During the Middle Ages, black cats with white spots, especially on their chests, were sometimes spared from superstitions linking black cats to witchcraft. The white spot was seen as a sign of holiness (God’s thumbprint) or an angel's kiss (touch), distinguishing them from their all-black counterparts, who were often persecuted. This historical precedent could translate to similar beliefs about dogs and other animals with distinctive white markings. In Christian traditions, all kinds of animals with white markings were sometimes thought to be blessed or protected by angels.
In the End
The white patch on a Doberman’s chest is a fascinating feature with roots in the breed’s genetic history and breeding practices. While it may be viewed as permissible at a dime-sized marking on the chest in the American conformation ring and a disqualifying fault in European standards, it has no impact on the dog’s health or ability to be a loving companion. Understanding the origins and implications of this marking can help owners appreciate the unique beauty of their Dobermans, whether they are show dogs or cherished companion dogs.
References:
American Kennel Club: Official Standard of the Doberman Pinscher
https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/DobermanPinscher.pdf
Black Cats with White Spot on Chest, History, Genetics, and Symbolism
https://petwithtail.com/cat-breeds-black-cats-with-white-spot-on-chest/
Doberman Pinscher Club of America: Dobermans In Detail: 6-Coat
https://dpca.org/breeded/dobermans-in-detail-6-coat/
Doberman Talk: Anyone heard of "World Class Doberman...."
https://www.dobermantalk.com/threads/anyone-heard-of-world-class-doberman.10962/
Doberman Talk: I have produced the "rare white tiger" gene!
https://www.dobermantalk.com/threads/i-have-produced-the-rare-white-tiger-gene.43129/
Emil Hauck
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emil_Hauck
FEDERATION CYNOLOGIQUE INTERNATIONALE (AISBL)
https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/143g02-en.pdf
Masterminds: Mastermind 4: creators of pedigree dogs - Ria Hörter
https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/25758965/mastermind-4-creators-of-pedigree-dogs-ria-horter#google_vignette
Reconciling diverse mammalian pigmentation patterns with a fundamental mathematical model
https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms10288
