Toby the Shih Tzu's Color Changes

by Michelle
(Pennsylvania)

My dog Toby started off very dark. His dad was a blue brindle according to the breeder. At 1, he is now grayer in color.

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Hi Janice here from Miracle Shih Tzu
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Thank you, Michelle, for sharing your sweet Shih Tzu with us. He does, indeed appear to be grayer as he gets older.

You didn't mention what color his mother is, but I don't see the blue in Toby. That is not unusual because blue is a very rare color and the mother would need to carry the gene for blue. I do see the brindling in his coat, but it doesn't show up well in the photographs.

I won't bore you with coat genetics, but the other possibility as to why the coat is graying is due to a specific graying gene, that is found on the G locus. My understanding is that it only takes the G gene from either parent to cause the coat to gray over time.

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"Hi, I'm Janice Jones, a former veterinary technician and Shih Tzu expert with over 40 years of experience with the breed. Through Miracle Shih Tzu, I combine my medical background and extensive breed knowledge to provide reliable, practical advice for Shih Tzu owners. My mission is to help you give your Shih Tzu the happiest, healthiest life possible through evidence-based information and real-world solutions. Whether you're new to the breed or a seasoned owner, you'll find trusted guidance here for all aspects of Shih Tzu care.

I hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in biology, Early Childhood Education, and Nursing, and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling.