@mastini-mayhem #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?