Why We Do Not Breed Dilute to Dilute Dogs — Until a Reliable CDA Genetic Test Exists
- Dawn Walker
- Nov 28
- 3 min read
At our kennel, the health and long-term welfare of our dogs always come first. As breeders, we believe that every decision should be grounded in science, transparency and a commitment to preventing avoidable health issues.
One topic that often raises questions is why we do not breed dilute-coloured dogs (such as blue or lilac). Here is our reasoning.
Understanding Colour Dilution Alopecia (CDA)
Colour Dilution Alopecia (CDA) is a genetic condition associated with dilute coat colours in many dog breeds. While not all dilute dogs will develop CDA, those that do may experience:
Patchy or progressive hair loss
Dry, brittle coat texture
Itchy or inflamed skin
Recurrent bacterial infections
Long-term skin maintenance needs
CDA does not affect every dilute dog, and severity can vary widely. However, it is a well-documented risk that responsible breeders must consider.
Why Dilute × Dilute Breeding Increases Concern
Dilution (the d gene) is recessive, so a dilute dog is d/d. When two dilute dogs are bred together:
100% of the offspring will be dilute
All puppies therefore inherit the dilution pattern that may predispose them to CDA
This does not mean all such puppies will develop CDA—but without a genetic test to distinguish risk levels, breeders cannot predict which lines carry a higher likelihood of the condition.
In other words, dilute × dilute pairings offer no genetic safeguard. Every puppy is placed into a risk category we cannot currently screen.
No Reliable, Validated Genetic Test Exists (Yet)
Despite ongoing research, there is currently no scientifically validated genetic test that can tell breeders which dogs:
Carry genetic risk factors for CDA
Are likely to pass on coat/skin structural weaknesses
Will produce offspring with a higher predisposition
Commercial tests claiming to detect CDA risk are not confirmed by peer-reviewed studies and are not recognized by geneticists or major canine health organisations.
Until a reliable, validated diagnostic tool exists, breeders must rely on cautious, evidence-based practices.
Our Priority: Health Above Colour
While dilute colours are beautiful—and many dilute dogs live completely healthy lives—our kennel will not knowingly increase the chance of health-related coat and skin issues in our puppies.
Therefore, we choose to breed:
Dilute (Dogs over 3 years of age with no evidence of CDA present) × Non-dilute (d/d to D/D) OR Dilute Carrier x Non-dilute (D/d to D/D)
These pairings avoid producing entire litters with a potentially higher risk profile.
This approach keeps the dilute gene present in our lines responsibly, without putting every puppy at the same level of uncertainty.
Responsible Breeding Means Waiting for Science
Our stance is simple:
Until there is a validated genetic test for Colour Dilution Alopecia, we will not breed dilute to dilute dogs.
This policy reflects:
Our commitment to the health of the breed
Our responsibility to future puppy owners
Our ethical duty to avoid preventable suffering
Our belief that colour should never be prioritized over wellbeing
When a reliable test becomes available, we will evaluate the science and adjust our practices accordingly.
Our Promise to You
We believe you deserve dogs who are not only beautiful, but also healthy, sound, and well-bred.
By avoiding dilute × dilute breedings until science gives us clearer answers, we ensure that every puppy we bring into the world has the best possible foundation for a long, comfortable and happy life.
If you have questions about dilution, CDA, or our breeding philosophy, we are always happy to speak with you.
For more information regarding dog coat colours please take a look at the following websites:
Dawn & Phil 🐾
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