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  • @mastini-mayhem  I think this is the slow conditioning of breeders and enthusiasts. It probably works like this:

    Breeders show their dogs to obtain titles to validate their program and create their own "lines"

    Judges select dogs they like and that either validate or negate the breeders program

    The breeder has "color A" and at all shows "color B" wins or places.

    After a few failed attempts in the ring the breeder must now decide to restart program with "color B" if they want to win and get titles or Breeder can say that "color A" is rare which is easier and less costly than starting over.

    Additionally, people like "rare" things as it gives a sense of individuality - a few of these around and "I have one".

    Anyhow, after 2 cups of coffee that is how my brain is working today.... My thoughts on the subject since we had COs that did not fit the color mold when the black mask and grey color became the judges' favorites.

    This is an interesting topic. What are you thoughts?

    • I agree that color especially rare should not be sought for in dogs. Never pick a dog based on color. However I do know breeders including myself that do or have done this. Color doesn’t matter to the dog. The dog only knows it a dog. I know breeders to pick black Presas because black dogs are more intimidating just because of its color. They know that the potential buyers will choose the black dog for this reason. It doesn’t make it a better dog or working dog. But when it comes to rare it usually amounts to ignorance. A person buys a blue presa. They have high hopes of breeding it. It’s a rare trait in presas. It is a disqualifying fault. It is believed that it comes from the Great Dane used in creating the breed. This person sees it is an opportunity to sale and make money. Wow, I can sell its puppies for more than the $2500 I paid for the parent. This person doesn’t have a kennel breeding program. Just a get rich idea. They have never researched the breed or research what it takes to be a breeder. This person doesn’t no anything regarding to genetics. They find another blue presa. This is a pet quality presa. Doesn’t mean it’s not a good working dog. But it shouldn’t be bred. This person breeds the dogs which produces some blue presas. Advertising it as a rare color. Attempting to sell it for more than the standard price for a presa. Believing they have something extra special. Remember they have never been to a show. They have no idea of what the judges look for in the breed. It may have one champion of record in its pedigree. Then the ignorant consumer not knowing any more than the ignorant puppy peddlers buys their pup based upon rare color believing that they have struck gold. Eventually they find out that it is hard to sell a blue presa. They reduce the price to get rid of the dogs. Eventually they may learn that it is a disqualifying fault in the breed.