Graying is a dominant gene. Therefore, the chance of having a gray foal is at least 50/50. If the stallion is homozygous for the gray gene, the chances are 100%. There is a chance that the colt will turn progressively grayer as he sheds each hair coat. If he contains the progressively graying gene, then he will get grayer with each year. After the first shedding, a few white hairs will be found interspersed with the colored hairs. Each shedding results in a larger and larger proportion of white hairs, until the horse is gray. Progressive graying can occur without dappling. Some gray horses may retain a dark mane and tail for some time. Foals will start to shed their foal coats at about 4 to 6 months of age.
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FAQ #262
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I have a true black mare that was bred to a gray stud. The colt arrived as a bay. What is the chance of this colt turning gray? When do new colts shed their baby hair to get to their true color?
Last Updated: July 25, 2006
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