The Dominant Black gene (K Locus) affects pigment switching between eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red or yellow) by interacting with the Agouti and MC1R genes.
Several gene variants are known to produce dilute coloration in dogs. Colors are lightened (diluted) to paler shades as a result of the variants' effects on pigmentation.
The melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene controls production of the pigments eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red/yellow). Six known variants of this gene are responsible for producing markings and coat colors including melanistic mask, grizzle/domino, black, and shades of red/yellow.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a genetic disease characterized by progressive photoreceptor degeneration that leads to blindness. Mutations in 5 loci are associated with susceptibility to 90% of the PRA in Italian Greyhounds.
Primary closed angle glaucoma (PCAG) is a hereditary disease that results from a rapid build-up of pressure in the eye; if left untreated it will lead to blindness.
Autosomal recessive amelogenesis imperfecta (ARAI), also known as familial enamel hypoplasia (FEH), is an inherited genetic disorder of tooth enamel that occurs in Italian Greyhounds.
Hyperuricosuria is an inherited disorder characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the urine that can lead to the formation of bladder/kidney stones.
Primary lens luxation is a painful inherited eye disorder where the lens of the eye moves from its normal position, causing inflammation and glaucoma. If untreated, the condition can rapidly lead to blindness.