FREE Foal Coat Color Predictor | Equine Genetics Calculator
Horse Color Calculator 2026: Predict Foal Coat Colors
🐎 Professional Breeding Tool: Our FREE Horse Color Calculator 2026 uses equine genetics to predict foal coat colors. Calculate probabilities for bay, chestnut, black, palomino, buckskin, and rare colors. Based on 2026 genetics research for Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, Arabians, and all breeds.
Use genetics to predict foal coat colors before breeding
How This Horse Color Calculator 2026 Works
Equine coat color genetics follow specific inheritance patterns based on multiple gene loci. Our horse color calculator 2026 uses established genetic principles from equine science research to predict foal colors with laboratory-grade accuracy, considering base colors, dilution genes, and modifying factors.
🧬 Core Color Genetics
Extension Locus (E/e): Controls black pigment production. E = black, e = red (chestnut)
Agouti Locus (A/a): Determines black distribution. A = restricts black to points (bay), a = black everywhere
Breed Frequency: Very high in Arabians, Lipizzans, Andalusians
Produces: 50% chance of gray foals if one parent is gray
2026 Research: Progressive graying rate now predictable by age
Dilution Colors & Rare Genetics
Single Dilutes
Palomino: Chestnut + one cream gene (ee __ Crcr)
Buckskin: Bay + one cream gene (E_ A_ Crcr)
Smoky Black: Black + one cream gene (E_ aa Crcr)
Perlino: Bay + two cream genes (E_ A_ crcr) - often confused with cremello
Breed Restrictions: Not all breeds carry cream dilution naturally
Double Dilutes & Rare Colors
Cremello: Chestnut + two cream genes (ee __ crcr)
Champagne: CH gene acting on any base color
Silver Dapple: Z gene affecting black pigment only
Pearl: Prl gene, recessive dilution similar to cream
Breed Specific: Some colors only in specific breeds (e.g., Silver in Rocky Mountain Horses)
❓ Horse Color Genetics FAQ 2026
Can two chestnut horses produce a bay foal?
No, two chestnut horses (ee __) cannot produce a bay foal. Chestnut is recessive and masks black pigment. Both parents must contribute an E allele for black pigment, which chestnuts don't have. The foal will always be chestnut, though it could be palomino if cream genes are involved.
What color foal will a bay and chestnut produce?
A bay (E_ A_) bred to chestnut (ee __) has several possibilities: If the bay is EE (homozygous black), 100% of foals will be bay. If the bay is Ee (heterozygous), 50% will be bay, 50% chestnut. The agouti gene from the bay parent will determine if black-based foals are bay or black.
How does the gray gene affect color predictions?
The gray gene (G) is dominant and causes progressive whitening with age. A gray horse can have any base color underneath. When breeding: Gray x Non-gray = 50% chance gray foals. Gray x Gray = 75% chance gray foals. Our calculator shows both the foal's birth color AND eventual gray color if the G gene is present.
What's the difference between perlino and cremello?
Both are double dilutes (crcr), but: Cremello: Chestnut base + two cream genes = cream body, white mane/tail, pink skin, blue eyes. Perlino: Bay base + two cream genes = cream body, slightly darker points (mane/tail may be ivory), pink skin, blue eyes. They're often confused but genetically distinct.
Can a black horse produce a chestnut foal?
Yes, if the black horse carries a hidden red (e) allele. Black can be EE (homozygous) or Ee (heterozygous). If black is Ee and bred to a chestnut or another Ee black, they can produce chestnut foals. Genetic testing can determine if a black horse carries red.
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⚠️ Equine Genetics Disclaimer (Updated January 2026)
Educational Tool: This horse color calculator 2026 is for educational and planning purposes based on established equine genetics principles. While we strive for accuracy using current genetic research, actual foal colors may vary due to undiscovered genes, genetic mutations, or incomplete genetic testing.
Breeding Decisions: Color should never be the sole factor in breeding decisions. Always prioritize health, conformation, temperament, and genetic diversity. Some color combinations (like double dilutes) may have associated health considerations.
Genetic Testing: For precise predictions, consider genetic testing for both parents through UC Davis, Animal Genetics, or other reputable equine genetic laboratories. This calculator provides probabilities, not guarantees.
Last Update: January 1, 2026 | Next Review: July 1, 2026