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A DNA test for “C^cr” is available, and it is especially useful to determine the smoky black color, which as mentioned earlier, in the majority of cases cannot be distinguished visually from black. Based on the results of this test, the breeder will know if a particular horse can produce certain diluted colors caused by this mutation, and plan appropriate breeding. Tests of Agouti and Extension further help to determine the precise genotypes in double cream dilutes.

Table 3.

Base Color C^cr/C C^cr/C^cr Bay Buckskin Perlino Black Smoky Black Smoky Cream Chestnut Palomino Cremello Seal Brown Smoky Brown Perlino

The color determined by the Dun gene (Dn⁺ allele) in combination with the bay base color is genetically close to the color of the ancestors of the domestic horse, as well as contemporary wild representatives of the species. They are also typical for aboriginal species. Including this group of colors in the category of dilutions is only relative: The main characteristic of the color dun is the presence of the so-called “Wild” or “primitive” markings. The dilution of hair is only an additional feature, and it is not present or obvious in all cases.