A basic guide to the world of dog colours

Isabella

When you combine liver with dilution (dd on the D-locus) all eumelanin will be diluted to isabella rather than brown. Isabella, also known under names like lilac and fawn (not to be confused with sable, which can also be called fawn) is a pale greyish or creamish colour. The nose leather, lips and eyerims are a fleshy colour, while the eyes are amber. 
Isabella is a rare pattern in most breeds, but it is possible to combine with other patterns and produce for instance isabella merle, isabella grizzle or isabella tanpoint.

There is a condition tied to the dilution gene named Color-Dilution Alopecia, or CDA for short. It is believed to be the same condition that is known as Black Hair Follicular Dysplasia in some breeds, and most commonly seen in blue dogs. Symptoms vary greatly but include loss of hair, wrinkles skin, allergies and dermatitis. Some dogs can be born without symptoms but develop them later. 
Due to the conditions tied with the gene, it is of utmost importance that breeders are aware of the potential risk and breed responsibly.


An isabella weimaraner. This breed has often, thanks to its colour, been described as 'ghost-like'.


Tricolour (liver, creeping tan) rat terrier