GSP/DK Spots

[bigmike86]

Do GSPs spots change as they get older? Like if they are a dirty grey color do they get bigger and become more distinct, or does it just stay that way?

[MOOSE]

I have noticed with my GSP's they tend to darken til they are about 1-2 years old. But the ones that are more white based tend to show their ticking by the year mark.

Hope that helps!

[Cajun Casey]

That "dirty gray" appearance is roan. More distinct spots is ticked. The two kind of overlap sometimes, but there sbould be no distinct white spots at all in a true roan. Dogs darken as they reach adulthood, so roan dogs will not develop more distinct markings. Little puppies are hard to define. What looks like roan at 8 weeks may develop more distinct specks and truly be ticked.

[jmsgunner]

Gunny's ticking has both darkened and become more distinct.


8 weeks old


Just the other weekend - 17months

[ezzy333]

I think you will find they darken or lighten depending on the time of year due to sunlight and shedding.

Ezzy

[MOOSE]

I think you will find they darken or lighten depending on the time of year due to sunlight and shedding.

Ezzy

I may be the minority here but in the 6 years we have had GSP's not one had changed darkness due to the time of year and the sun or shedding. The only time I have seen that be the case is if you have a dog that is outside ALL the time then they might bleach out. But this doesn't actually change the base coat color. It is just as a sun bleaching thing. For those that are indoor dogs you will not see any difference. IMO.

[Cajun Casey]

I think you will find they darken or lighten depending on the time of year due to sunlight and shedding.

Ezzy

I may be the minority here but in the 6 years we have had GSP's not one had changed darkness due to the time of year and the sun or shedding. The only time I have seen that be the case is if you have a dog that is outside ALL the time then they might bleach out. But this doesn't actually change the base coat color. It is just as a sun bleaching thing. For those that are indoor dogs you will not see any difference. IMO.

This is correct. I have seen "bleaching" from the sun but no change in the white/color hair distribution from environment. Some shorthairs have an undercoat which may give them a slightly grayer appearance in the winter, but, again, it does not affect the pattern.

[ezzy333]

My post I think answered what was asked at least partially. The color does change during the year though the size of the spots do not but all I addressed was the color change. The biggest noticable difference is when they shed the dead winter coat and the new summer coat becomes visible. But light of any kind lightens the coat from spring on towards winter and light plus the age of the coat makes a big difference before they shed.

Ezzy

[mountaindogs]

They get MORE of the "ticking" (spots) as they age for years. Sometimes still darkening a bit at 3 and 4 years old. The large patches they are born with and do not change.