English Bulldogs USA, LLC

Unlocking the Enigma of Lilac Bulldogs: A Journey into DNA and Color Genetics

Understanding the Transformation: From Black to Lilac

• Lilac Bulldogs undergo a captivating color transformation, commencing from a base of black. This remarkable change is orchestrated through a dual dilution process involving the chocolate gene ([bb]) and the blue gene ([dd]).
• The [bb] allele gently dilutes the black pigment to an elegant brown, while the [dd] allele transforms it into a mesmerizing shade of blue. Picture the amalgamation of blue and brown paint, resulting in a spellbinding spectrum of purple or Lilac.
• A well-bred Lilac Bulldog should flaunt a lustrous coat, reminiscent of Weimaraner gray or various shades of purple and Lilac against black objects or in sunlight. It's essential to note that this may vary if the dog possesses the Seal Color.
• Remarkably, the nose, eyeliner, and foot pads of Lilac Bulldogs exhibit a distinctive shade of purple, adding to their overall charm.

Cracking the Genetic Code: bb dd for Lilac

• Lilac Bulldogs are the offspring of a union between two pivotal genes: [bb] for chocolate and [dd] for blue. Both genes are indispensable for the manifestation of the Lilac color.
• The genetic code for Lilac Bulldogs is bb dd, representing a harmonious blend of Full Chocolate and Full Blue.

Decoding Chocolate: The TYRP1 Gene

• The TYRP1 gene assumes a vital role in the chocolate coloration of Bulldogs, featuring two alleles:
  1. B (dominant full base color): Bulldogs devoid of brown, showcasing the complete base color.
  2. b (recessive brown): Bulldogs possessing two copies of brown, resulting in a rich brown/chocolate hue.

• Bulldogs with two copies of brown ([b/b]) exhibit full brown or chocolate coloration. Notably, in red or yellow dogs, brown doesn't dilute the hair color but alters the color of the nose and foot pads to brown.

Unveiling the Dilute/Blue Gene

• The dilute or blue gene ([d]) has undergone recent discoveries, now identified as d1. Additionally, two more dilution MLPH variants, d2 and d3, have been acknowledged.
• To achieve a dilute color phenotype, two copies of any of these three dilution variants or a combination of two are necessary, resulting in the lightening of the coat color.

Check out this great PDF from Animal DNA Diagnostics 

Color Coat Modifiers

The base color of Lilac Bulldogs can be enhanced with Tri points, brindle, seal, and merle, providing a unique aesthetic.

• Tri Points {at/at} the "at" Allele: Bulldogs carrying two copies of the at allele present a black and tan or tricolored coat. A tricolor dog is black-and-tan with white, and the at allele is always passed on to potential offspring.
• Brindle, Trindle, and Seal {K Allele}: The genes responsible for the brindle pattern are not fully understood. The K gene, specifically Kbr, plays a role in brindle patterns. The agouti gene overrides the brindle gene on the body coat, making it appear solid color. The K gene is visually inspected to determine if it's Kb (Seal) or Kbr (Brindle).
• Some Lilac Bulldogs may be both seal and brindle. The K gene, known as Dominant Black, is crucial for brindle patterns.
• Merle: This coat color pattern is characterized by splotchy patches of diluted colors. It is governed by a SINE insertion in the Pmel17 or Silver (SILV) gene. Merle only dilutes black pigment, and there are three alleles for merle: M allele, Mc allele, and N allele.
• Dogs with cryptic merle may display minimal merling and can be mistaken as non-merles. The inheritance of merle is genetically unstable for both M and Mc alleles.

Conclusion: The Symphony of Genes in Lilac Bulldogs

In the realm of English Bulldogs, Lilac Bulldogs emerge not only for their enchanting appearance but also for the intricate symphony of genes governing their distinctive coloration. Understanding the interplay of the chocolate and blue genes, coupled with insights into the TYRP1 gene, unveils the captivating world of Lilac Bulldogs. Remember DNA and the understanding of how colors are produces is an ever changing learning process. What is known today could be rewritten tomorrow. 

At English Bulldogs USA, LLC, we take pride in unraveling the genetic mysteries behind our Bulldogs. Each Lilac Bulldog is a testament to our meticulous breeding practices and unwavering dedication to preserving the unique qualities of this beloved breed. Written with help from Chat GPT.