It is good to see this info posted. If you read enough of these type pages, you'll find the info to be consistent and validated by science. Though not alarmist, these sites do urge caution when breeding piebalds. The links posted earlier say much the same. Here's something from a Chihuahua site...."Spotting/Piebald Pattern Gene
is a recessive, complete pigment reducing pattern gene, which removes ALL pigment to white in random unpredictable areas affected by the gene, it removes all colors to those areas affected, thus no color present, extreme whites by definition with blue eyes are partial albinos, therefore by default partial albinos must be considered a form of albinism. Blue eyes have been linked to the piebald gene, spotting gene has been linked to microphthalmia. See the prior link for spotting gene specific microphthalmia. All litter mates and parents of a blue eyed whelp pup must be considered a recessive carrier of the recessive blue eye gene. Piebald and or spotted on whites and excessive whites are homozygous forms of the piebald(SP/SW) gene. It is a recessive gene, therefore it can skip generations, and at this time can not be DNA'ed for its presence, but it is just around the corner, see our health testing page for more info. It is still uncertain if recessive carriers can or are effected by the gene linked disorders. Piebald/spotting gene effects a large majority of the canine breeds, and it is causing problems within many breeds. Some breeds more than others.
It has be scientifically proven that the more patches of color the less likely the chance for disorders. Proving once more color is a healthier choice for the breeder and the dog.
See a medical article on the spotting gene.
Breeds/ Facts about the risk of the spotting gene in many canine breeders.
Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Great Danes, Bulldogs and many other breeds openly discuss their concerns over too much white and/or the presence of the piebald gene, below we will share just some breed clubs with open concerns.
Samoyed Club : Bichon Frise Club : Boxer Club : Biewer Club
there are many more, we just want to show you how piebald, spotting gene effects health and how some breed clubs are coping with the spotting gene
LSU article, breeds most affected by deafness, MITF news , breeds with congenital deafness, Dr. Strain misquoted,
There are many more research sites to study, but we wanted to give a starting point to find some facts we referred too".....Here's the link...
Patterns