So many colors; so many questions! If you felt overwhelmed, like I did, by all the Poodle colors when you first heard them, you are not alone. Parti? Tuxedo? Piebald? What!! Among the many multi-colored Poodles perhaps none is as popular and captivating as the Parti, random-white or piebald coloration.
The term parti (which means particular) refers to the distinctive coat appearance, featuring a white base with large irregular patches and/or spots of a second color. White markings make up at least 50% of the coat with crisp, well-defined patches of a second color. The second color or pattern can be any in the Poodle family including black, brown, blue silver red, cream, brindle, merle, etc
The size and distribution of the white patches are random and unique to each dog- No two Parti Poodles are alike. Each Parti Poodle is a one-of-a-kind creation.
With its stunning coat and the same charming personality and traits as solid-colored Poodles, the Parti Poodle can be the perfect household addition. So why settle for just one color, when you can have a Parti?”
Parti Poodle Genetics
The Parti coloration is caused by a mutation of the MITF gene known as the piebald (Sp) gene. Piebald is thus a variant of the MITF gene (regulates pigment formation). This mutation results in blockage of melanin pigment-forming cells from reaching certain sections of the coat and skin causing them to appear white due to lack of pigment. The sections most affected are the chest, underbelly, legs, and tail tip
Both the MITF (S) and piebald genes (Sp) are found on the white spotting or S-locus. A locus is a specific gene location on a DNA chain. There are two testable alleles (gene variants) on the S-locus:
- S (solid color): This is the MITF gene wild type (original form) responsible for the normal transportation and distribution of pigment-forming cells. Any Poodle that is SS on the S-locus has no white markings.
- Sp (piebald): Any area that is affected by this gene appears white. This gene seems to exhibit incomplete dominance which means that the extent of white is dosage-dependent (depends on the number of piebald genes the dog inherits).
A dog that inherits one copy of this gene (SSp) has minimal (almost solid-colored) to moderate white markings. Meanwhile, a canine with two copies (SpSp) has minimal to extensive white marking; is almost all white with a colored head.
Sometimes a solid-color dog has small amounts of white on the chest and the paws not caused by the piebald gene. This is known as residual white and results from pigment not reaching these areas during development.
The interaction between the white-spotting alleles is complex and might be influenced by other unknown genes and modifiers.
Parti Poodle varieties
Comparison with other varieties of Poodles
- Tuxedo Poodles:
- Have white markings on specific locations, creating a tuxedo or blanket appearance. The locations include the legs, neck, chest, belly, face, a blaze (stripe between the eyes), head, and tail tip.
- Features a white bib, belly, legs, and paws with a darker color covering the saddle (back).
- May have a full-colored saddle or white breaking into the saddle
- Spotted Poodles:
- Have a white base color with a mixture of spots, patches, and ticking markings of a second color
- Ticking marks are flecks or speckles that develop as the dog ages. No pup is born with ticking but they develop as the dog gets older
- The amount of spotting varies depending on the number of ticking genes the dog inherits. A dog with one copy of the ticking gene (Tt) will have fewer ticking marks than one with two copies of the gene (TT)
- Heavy ticking is not preferred by many
- Abstract Poodles (mismarks):
- Have limited white markings in random areas, with less than 50% of the coat being white
- Considered a fault in breeding and major conformation rings
- Features may include chest, paws, face, legs, neck, and chin
Color combinations
Possible parti-color combinations include:
-
- Black Parti Poodle (black and white)
- Chocolate/brown Parti Poodle (brown and white)
- Blue-gray Parti Poodle (blue and white)
- Silver Parti Poodle (silver and white)
- Red Parti Poodle (red and white)
- Apricot Parti Poodle (apricot and white)
- Cream Parti Poodle (cream and white)
- Sable Parti Poodle (sable and white)
- Phantom Parti Poodle (phantom markings and white)
- Brindle Parti Poodle (brindle and white)
- Merle Parti Poodle (merle and white)
Note: The proper naming scheme for the parti pattern is to first state the darker color or pattern followed by parti. For instance, brown parti instead of brown and white parti. This is because each parti dog has white markings. But there is nothing wrong with referring to the dog as a brown and white parti.
Personality & Temperament
Like any other Poodle, the Parti Poodle is a cheerful, energetic, and playful dog with a friendly personality. They are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and have a strong desire to please. Their sociable nature makes them good companions for families and individuals alike. They can be sensitive and may require gentle and positive training methods.
The personalities do not vary based on the coat color, including for the parti Poodle. Personality is shaped by a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, early life experiences, upbringing, and ongoing socialization and training.
Care & Grooming
Here are some care needs to consider;
- Activity level: Parti Poodles are highly energetic and playful dogs that need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to prevent destructive or unwanted behaviors. They are best suited to active families who can provide plenty of opportunities for physical activity and mental engagement.
- Coat care: Parti Poodles have curly, non-shedding coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance and prevent matting. Make sure you are prepared to invest time and resources into grooming and maintaining your dog’s coat.
- Living conditions: Parti Poodles are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of living conditions, from city apartments to large rural homes. However, they may be best suited to homes with moderate climates and plenty of outdoor space for running and playing.
- Not suitable for owners with long working hours or frequent trips. Prone to anxiety, excessive barking, and indoor peeing if left alone for long periods
Coat care:
Regular grooming from puppyhood is recommended to keep the coat looking great. Brushing the coat several times a week and trimming/bathing every 1-2 months by you or a professional groomer is important to maintain the coat and prevent matting.
Use special shampoos/conditioners for the white fur; test products on a small area of the fur first. Remove stains promptly with baking soda, 1% hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Trim around the eyes and paws to prevent staining and matting.
White dogs are more susceptible to sunburn, so it is important to protect them from direct sun exposure. Use sunblock designed for pets if necessary to protect the dog from sun exposure.
Finding a Parti Poodle
If you are interested in a Parti Poodle, you can find one using the following channels:
- AKC Breeder Referral List: The American Kennel Club maintains a list of breeders for all breeds, including Parti Poodles. You can search for Parti Poodle breeders by visiting their website (www.akc.org) and clicking on the “Breeder Referral” tab.
- Poodle Club of America (PCA): This is an organization dedicated to the breed and has a referral list of breeders who specialize in Poodles. You can find their website at www.poodleclubofamerica.org and contact them for a list of recommended Parti Poodle breeders.
- Websites and Forums: Websites like Puppyfind.com, Adopt-a-Pet, NextDayPets.com, forums, and local Facebook groups dedicated to Poodles can be good resources for finding reputable breeders.
- Word of Mouth: Asking friends, family, or other dog owners for recommendations is another way. Local pet stores, veterinarians, dog trainers, and other Parti Poodle owners can offer you some leads. referrals.
It is important to research the breed thoroughly and choose a responsible, reputable breeder. Visit the breeder’s facilities, meet the parents and puppies, and ask questions about their health and temperament.
Be sure to ask the breeder about their health testing practices, and look for assurance of genetic health testing. Familiarize yourself with common poodle ailments and be aware that some genetic problems may not become apparent until later in life.
Known Parti Poodle breeders
- Jacknic Kennel– Solid and Parti Colored Standard Poodles in Michigan
- Tinlet Standard Poodles– Gloria Ogdahl, Franklin, NC
- Crystal Creek Standard Poodles Bonnie Winings, Fishers, IN
Cost:
On average, a parti Poodle costs between $1000 and $3000 depending on the location, breeder, and demand for the puppy.
If a breeder is charging you more for “rarity” it is usually a ripoff. In my opinion, the only difference in the price of a pup should be between a show quality pup and a pet quality pup, breeding rights/no breeding rights. Parti Poodles are not that rare
Recognition and showing
Parti Poodles are recognized and can be registered under AKC but cannot be currently shown in conformation rings as white is seen as a fault. However, they are allowed to participate in competitive events such as obedience and agility competitions.
However, UKC does recognize and allow the Parti Poodle (all three sizes) to be shown.
In Conclusion
It is undeniable that parti is a beautiful and appealing coat pattern. This is not a separate breed but a purebred Poodle that can come in all sizes and with a similar temperament to all other Poodle varieties. The coat color is the only difference.
Ultimately, the decision of which color to get should be based on what you value most in a pet. Whether it be the look, personality, or adaptability, you should choose a Poodle that fits your lifestyle and personality the best; not based on color alone.
I hope this helped with any confusion!
There you go, WOOF!
