Often invisible diluted coat
Smoky black is a genetically black horse carrying one Cream variant. Its visible effect is often weak or indistinguishable from ordinary black.
Black coat with one cream gene; resembles regular black.
The coat is generally black, sometimes slightly brown, faded or smoky. No unique appearance confirms the genotype.
One Cream variant in SLC45A2 has little effect on black eumelanin compared with its action on red pigment.
The coat may sun-fade like any other black coat without reliably revealing Cream.
Confusion with black is expected. Pedigree information or genetic testing is usually required.
Explore the profiles of breeds in which this coat or trait is present or documented.
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The Paint Horse, an American breed recognized for its pinto coat and versatility, excels in western riding, leisure, and competitions.
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The Quarter Horse is the ultimate American horse, famous for its power, sprinting speed, and exceptional versatility.
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Discover the American Saddlebred, an elegant and expressive saddle horse, famous for its high-stepping gaits and iconic role in equestrian shows.
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Discover the Falabella, one of the smallest horse breeds in the world: docile, elegant, hardy, and native to Argentina. Used in driving and equine therapy.
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Why is the Irish Cob so loved? Gentle, hardy and versatile, this horse with abundant feathering is ideal for riding and driving.
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Discover the Hispano-Arabian, also known as the Aralusian, a Spanish sport horse from PRE and Arabian bloodlines, valued for doma vaquera, endurance and TREC.
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Discover the Icelandic Horse, Iceland’s iconic breed, renowned for its unique gaits (tölt and pace), hardiness, and gentle temperament. Complete information on its origin, traits, ...
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Discover the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse, an American breed renowned for its exceptionally smooth gait, gentle temperament, and versatility.
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The Shetland Pony, the world's strongest horse relative to its size, can pull twice its own weight. Present since the Bronze Age, thousands spent their entire lives hauling coal un ...
View profileThe coat is generally black, sometimes slightly brown, faded or smoky. No unique appearance confirms the genotype.
The coat may sun-fade like any other black coat without reliably revealing Cream.
Confusion with black is expected. Pedigree information or genetic testing is usually required.
Visual examination is sometimes sufficient, but genetic testing can be useful when several coats look similar or when breeding decisions are involved.
