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Appaloosa White Spots
(Snowflake)
Appaloosa white spots – which only show up against a darker background – may be caused by the dominant SnS allele. It is, however, also possible that they are due to an alternative allele of the Ap gene.
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The white spots are small and roundish, and may merge together in some areas to create a lacy pattern. When the pattern covers the hips it may be referred to as a lace blanket or frosted hips.
Extensive white spotting is called snowflake and may look like roan. Unlike roan the white spots may occur on the head and legs as well as on the body. The pattern of spotting on any particular horse can vary over time, with spots appearing, disappearing and migrating.
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