brookcove
Posted : 10/19/2008 4:30:45 PM
It's possible Weim was used to get the silver way back when, but it's also possible it's just been there for many generations. There's no limit to how long a recessive can be passed on, before meeting another somewhere and expressing. This is why in some breeds the recessive trait is discouraged, because it leads to "surprises" down the road and the show ring is all about conformity, not variations, especially unpredictable ones.
In BCs, there's no physical standard so dilutes show up in some lines, every so often, to the amusement of others (because "candy colors" are rather looked down upon in the working world) and the surprise of the breeder. But no harm is actually done, and if the dilute is an outstanding worker and producer, so one will actually care what his color is. there's also a variation of the dilute that is so dark that it is difficult to see unless you are very alert when the litter is born. One of Ted's littermates was this color, so he likely carries dilute. He also carries red.
Dilute can sometimes be associated with allopecia, a thinning or loss of hair, and sun sensitivity.
The problem with breeding "for" silver, is that you are breeding for two recessive traits at once, severely restricting your choices. Instead of picking the healthiest, soundest individuals in general, you are picking the ones that are both chocolate, and also carry dilute. This is a great way to also concentrate recessive traits that are harmful, in your lines.