"Trailwinds True Blue von Ace" is a Solid Blue. What this means is that if he had not received 2 copies of the Blue dilution gene he would have been a Solid Black. The Solid or Self Coloring gene is a pattern gene and not to be confused with color genes. "TruBlu" is owned by Kathy of Trailwinds Shepherds in Texas. Tru is also a half brother to my Gypsy's sire "Blue Denim von Ace".
Kathy describes Tru as a happy-go-lucky dog. Tru has those classic wolf-like coloration to his eyes most Blues, Powder and Steel alike, posess. I find them quite enchanting.
Tru is a Steel Solid Blue. As of so far we have never heard of a Powder Solid Blue and do not know if this is possible within the self coloring pattern gene.
The Solid Pattern Gene is a double recessive just like the Blue Dilution Gene. In order for Tru to be a Solid Blue it means he received two copies of each the Solid and the Blue gene. His sire and dam each gave him a copy of both genes.
A shot in the sun provides an accurate representation of Tru's "true" color. ;o) In order to truly see the difference between a Solid Blue and a Solid Black you would need to place a truly Black dog next to a Blue. What may not be as obvious now would be quite obvious then. For a more detailed explanation of the genetic activity behind Blues, Livers, Solids and more please visit our Genetic Information page.
