As a Color Development Breeder we work with the same ethical foundation as a preservation breeder, but with a specialized focus: introducing and stabilizing new or rare colors and patterns within a breed. This isn’t about creating novelty—it’s about expanding and enhancing the breed's palette without sacrificing health, temperament, or structure.

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Just as early breed developers used existing dogs to refine traits, color developers may use related breeds (or existing breed members carrying rare genes) to reintroduce or amplify desirable coat patterns and colors. Once the color is introduced, dogs are then bred back to the breed standard—carefully refining structure, temperament, and health until these dogs are indistinguishable from traditional lines except for coat color.

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Their goal is to create:

• Genetically healthy dogs in rare or emerging colors

• Conformationally correct representatives of their breed

• New lines that meet or exceed the breed standard, while expanding its diversity

This work is slow, deliberate, and thoughtful. It helps future-proof breeds by introducing fresh genetics and offering new options for breeders and families alike—without compromising integrity.

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Why It Matters

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Buying from either a preservation breeder or a color developer breeder who shares these high standards means you’re doing more than adding a pet to your family. You’re:

• Supporting responsible, ethical breeding

• Preserving a breed’s legacy and function

• Encouraging long-term health, sound structure, and stable temperament

• Contributing to the sustainable future of dog breeds, including emerging colors and lines

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Whether working to safeguard tradition or expand the breed’s possibilities, these breeders are united by a core mission: to leave their breed better than they found it—for the dogs, for the breed, and for the families who love them.