Genetics at a glance
| Genotype | at/at at the A locus with ky/ky at K |
|---|---|
| Loci involved | A locus (at) tan point pattern; K locus ky permits A locus expression |
| Typical UK price | £3,000 – £6,500 |
| Kennel Club | Outside the breed standard |
The tan point pattern is produced by the at allele at the A locus, and requires ky/ky at the K locus so that brindle does not overlay it. Tan markings appear in the classic distribution: above the eyes, on the muzzle and cheeks, on the chest, and on the lower legs.
A relatively benign non-standard colour
Of the colours outside the breed standard, tan points is among the least concerning. Unlike dilution it carries no dermatological risk, and unlike merle it does not indicate outcrossing — the at allele is a normal part of canine colour genetics and is present in the breed. Its exclusion from the standard is a matter of convention rather than welfare.
The pattern can also be layered onto other colours, producing blue and tan, chocolate and tan, or lilac and tan. In those cases the risks of the underlying dilution apply as normal.
Health and cost considerations for this colour:
- Not Kennel Club recognised
Buying at a colour premium? Get a written insurance quote for the specific dog before you pay a deposit — several UK insurers now load or exclude diluted coats. Our lifetime cost calculator applies the colour loading so you can see the difference over the dog's life.
What we would actually buy
Confirms dilution and cocoa status, and screens for degenerative myelopathy via SOD1 among other conditions. Useful if you are buying at a colour premium and want to verify what you actually bought.
Best for:Verifying a rare-colour purchase, or screening before breeding
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Best for:Owners insuring from the day of collection
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Common questions
Are black and tan French Bulldogs healthy?
The tan point pattern carries no colour-linked health risk of its own. Where it appears on a diluted base — blue and tan, lilac and tan — the dilution-related risks apply.
Why is black and tan not Kennel Club recognised?
The breed standard lists the accepted colours and tan points is not among them. This is a convention of the standard rather than a welfare judgement about the pattern itself.
Related reading
Colour genetics summarised for buyers. If you are planning a mating, DNA test both parents through an accredited laboratory rather than relying on appearance.