Online tools exist that predict equine coat color inheritance. These tools use established genetic principles and known alleles for coat color genes to forecast the possible coat colors of offspring based on the parents’ genetic makeup. For example, inputting the coat colors and genotypes of a chestnut mare and a bay stallion allows breeders to see the probability of their foal being bay, black, or chestnut.
Predicting equine coat color outcomes has significant implications for horse breeding. It assists breeders in making informed decisions regarding pairings to achieve desired coat colors, especially for rare or commercially popular colors. Historically, coat color prediction relied on observation and pedigree analysis, but the development of genetic testing and online calculators offers a more precise and scientific approach. This knowledge base is constantly evolving as researchers identify more genes influencing coat color and their various interactions.