White Australian Shepherd

The white Australian Shepherd, sometimes called the white Aussie, is an adorable yet controversial variety of this energetic herding breed. White Aussies sport a snowy white coat, which may at first glance appear simply striking. However, the genetics behind this mostly white coloring are complex, often resulting in severe health issues.

White-coated Australian Shepherd puppies are frequently born when two merle-patterned dogs are bred together. The merle gene, which causes a patchwork coat of black/gray and white, can produce excessive white when two copies are inherited. These white pups are known as “double merles.”

Behind their beautiful bright white fur, double merle Australian Shepherds like the white Aussie commonly suffer from deafness and blindness. This is why white coats have become discouraged in Aussies over time, to the point of disqualification from breeding standards.

Yet the controversy around white Australian Shepherds continues today. There are still many myths and unknowns about the correlation between their coloring, genetics, and health. There is also debate around how ethical it is to intentionally breed white Aussies.

This article will delve deeper into the science and controversy surrounding the striking white Australian Shepherd. We’ll explore what causes white coats, associated health issues, breeder perspectives, special care requirements, and more key topics around this rare coat color. Let’s dive in!

The Genetics Behind the White Australian Shepherd

White Coats and the Merle Gene

As mentioned, white-coated Australian Shepherds are often linked to the merle gene. Merle causes a patchwork coat of gray/black and white in Aussies, appearing as blue and red merle.

When two merle dogs are bred together, each puppy has a 25% chance of inheriting two copies of the merle gene. These “double merles” frequently have excessive white coating, occasionally appearing almost all white. The merle gene essentially “bleaches” out the dark base coat color.

However, not all white Aussies are double merles. While their exceptionally white coats are due to genetics, some may have less eye and ear pigmentation than true double merles. There are also other genes that cause white spotting and markings in Aussies separate from merle.

So a white coat color is not necessarily indicative of double merle status or associated health issues. The only way to truly identify a double merle Aussie is through parentage or genetic testing. Yet white coats are still discouraged in the breed overall to reduce the accidental breeding of dogs predisposed to blindness and deafness.

Expression in Less White Lines

Additionally, double merles don’t always appear fully white. Depending on the dog’s lineage, even a double merle Aussie may have fairly normal merle markings.

Some Aussie lines with very little white in their pedigrees will produce double merles that retain a good amount of color. But these dogs can still suffer vision and hearing issues associated with inheriting two copies of merle. So white fur is not the only sign of a high-risk double merle Australian Shepherd.

Lethal White Myth

Because abundant white coat coloring is strongly associated with the serious health ramifications above, the catchphrase “lethal white” has proliferated among Aussie and general dog circles. However, this terminology falsely implies double merle Aussies have strikingly short life spans.

In fact, the expression “lethal white” derives from a specific, fatal condition in Paint horses – Overo Lethal White Syndrome (OLWS). Unlike double merle dogs, OLWS is connected to digestive tract deformities completely incompatible with life at birth. So while double merles and OLWS lethal whites share primarily white appearance, disease mechanisms and severity greatly differ.

Instead, vision and hearing impaired double merle Aussies have typical lifespans, some even reaching 15 years or beyond. Still, the phrase “lethal white” endures, likely perpetuated by memorable alliteration and search engine optimization. Regardless, veterinary genetics experts strongly discourage its usage due to inaccuracy. They recommend substituting “double merle” or “homozygous merle” to describe Aussies with two copies of merle instead.

Health Issues for the White Australian Shepherd

Vision and Hearing Loss

The most well-documented health issues in double merle Australian Shepherds like the white Aussie are vision and hearing defects. Issues range from minor impairments to complete blindness and deafness. When a puppy inherits two copies of merle, the development of the eyes and inner ears is disrupted. This causes defects in how these organs function. Most double merles will have some degree of vision and/or auditory issues.

White Australian Shepherd Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

This inherited eye disorder causes changes in the retina, choroid, and sclera of the eye which can lead to blindness if not treated. As the name suggests, CEA is often found in collie breeds including Aussies.

Epilepsy

Seizure disorders have been reported more frequently in double merle dogs across multiple breeds. While not definitively proven as genetically linked to the double merle genotype, seizures require lifelong monitoring and medication.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

This congenital heart defect causes abnormal blood circulation due to a vessel failing to properly close shortly after birth. Some double merle Aussies have been diagnosed with PDA likely due to developmental issues.

White Australian Shepherd Skin Cancer Risks

Being predominately white, double merle dogs like the white Aussie may face increased skin cancer susceptibility, especially on their ears and face. Monitoring for unusual growths is imperative.

White Australian Shepherd Allergies/Skin Problems

Excessive white coat color in dogs has been associated with increased incidence of allergies resulting in ear and skin infections. Multiple food allergies are also frequently seen in the Australian Shepherd.

Cleft Palate

A cleft palate is an opening or split in the roof of the dog’s mouth. Some breeders and veterinary genetics texts report cleft palates occurring more frequently in double merle puppies across multiple breeds. This is likely related to developmental issues associated with inheriting two merle genes. However, actual rates are unknown and formal documentation is still limited.

Joint Dislocations/Fusions

There have also been reports of joint deformities like easily dislocated kneecaps or fused joints in double merle dogs. For example, a weakness in connective tissue could make dislocations more prevalent. Again, though, this link is primarily anecdotal from breeder observations rather than published evidence. Tracking of these issues and genetic testing for associated markers may improve understanding.

White Australian Shepherd Immune Deficiency

Finally, a few sources note increased infection rates and autoimmune disorders in double merle dogs. It has been hypothesized that the lack of pigment cells could impact development of the immune system. However, conclusive patterns are not yet substantiated through testing or in-depth clinical studies tracking white dogs over time.

These disabilities cannot be corrected and require lifelong management. Owners of white Aussies must take precautions to create a safe, engaging environment for a potentially blind and deaf canine companion. This makes health testing of suspected double merles imperative.

Other Health Considerations with the White Australian Shepherd

There is some debate around whether double merle Aussies have health defects beyond vision and hearing loss. One study found no evidence when comparing double merles to single merles. However, some breeders have reported physical deformities in double merles.

Issues like intestinal malformations and cardiac defects may be possible but require wider documentation. Additionally, while the merle gene likely does not cause temperament issues directly, its sensory effects could compound behavior problems.

Overall, more research is still needed on the wider health effects of the double merle genotype. But vision and hearing loss are undeniable consequences of inheriting two copies of merle.

Breeding Considerations

Strong Warnings Against Intentional White Australian Shepherd Breeding

Most experts strongly advise against intentionally breeding dogs to produce white Australian Shepherds. There are serious ethical concerns around deliberately producing puppies predisposed to blindness and deafness.

Additionally, even with precautions, owning a disabled dog is challenging. Accidental injury, behavior issues, higher vet costs, and need for special accommodations burden both the dogs and owners. These realities mean white Aussies often lead difficult lives or end up abandoned.

Yet some breeders persist in breeding double merles either for profit, novelty, or show ring fads favoring white trim. Educating the public on why white Aussies should not be intentionally produced is crucial to discouraging this practice.

Safest Breeding Practices

If choosing to breed from an identified double merle/white Australian Shepherd, the only responsible path is breeding to a non-merle mate. This eliminates any risk of producing additional double merles.

Breeding double merles should otherwise be strictly limited to only the most educated, specialist breeders though. Safely placing and managing white Aussie puppies with inherent disabilities requires immense skill, screening, and commitment.

Even with extensive genetic counseling provided, accidental production of double merles continues. But purposeful merle-to-merle breedings leading to white Aussies should have no place in a conscientious breeding program.

Ongoing Controversies

The debate around breeding white Australian Shepherds and managing double merles will likely persist for years to come. Despite health risks being well documented, these dogs continue to be produced intentionally or accidentally.

Better education on genetics, thoughtful breeding practices, and commitment to dogs already born with disabilities are all crucial next steps. There also needs to be more research on the wider health effects of the double merle genotype beyond vision and hearing.

Additionally, interest in rare or aesthetically striking coat colors fuels dangerous breeds. As long as white Aussies are glamorized without discussing realities, risky breeding will continue.

Lifelong Care Needed

White Australian Shepherds and double merles require extensive lifetime care and training to live happily and safely. Providing for these dogs is expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally taxing.

Yet with appropriate precautions and an environment catered to their needs, white Aussies can still be wonderful, loving companions. They demonstrate resilience and adaptability despite their inherent challenges.

In summary, while major health concerns rightfully make white coats controversial, the focus must remain on stewarding Aussies already affected by genetic conditions. Through education and committed care, white Australian Shepherds can live enriching lives alongside their families.

Questions and Answers About the White Australian Shepherd

Is the white Australian Shepherd rare?

Yes, white Aussies are quite rare. Reputable breeders avoid merle-to-merle breedings that often produce double merles with excessive white. But accidental breedings still occasionally occur.

What causes a white coat in Aussies?

A white coat frequently comes from inheriting two merle genes, producing a “double merle”. But other white spotting genes can also cause extreme white markings.

Are all white Australian Shepherds blind or deaf?

No, but most double merles (white Aussies bred from two merles) suffer some degree of vision or hearing issues. Even deafness in one ear is common. Health testing is imperative.

Do double merles have health problems besides sensory issues?

Potentially, but more research is still needed. Physical deformities and temperament issues are unproven. But blindness and deafness are unavoidable consequences.

Can a white Australian Shepherd make good pets?

Yes, with extensive precautions, training accommodations, vet care, etc. They require rigorous lifelong management but can adapt well and bond closely.

Why are white coats discouraged in Aussies?

Intentional breeding of double merles is condemned for ethical reasons. Also, improper breeding leads to abandoned dogs when buyers aren’t prepared for disabilities.

Is a white Australian Shepherd puppy’s coat color permanent?

Most white puppies generally retain their white coats. Changes are very rare barring environmental factors, medications, etc. altering pigmentation.

How can I get a white Australian Shepherd?

Adopt, don’t shop! Seek out an ethical breeder focused on dog welfare over color trends. Never support disreputable breeders mass producing double merles.