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Evidence-Based Poodle Genetics

A Leading Resource for Poodle Genetics

For breeders, owners, and enthusiasts. Evidence-based genetics, practical breeding tools, and continuously updated scientific resources, all referenced against the current peer-reviewed literature.

Trusted by breeders and owners. Research-backed, referenced to the peer-reviewed literature.

Advanced Poodle Genetics, Volume II, by Xyon Marley
Poodle Health & Structural Genetics, Volume III, by Xyon Marley
Poodle Color Genetics, Volume I, Second Edition, by Xyon Marley

Research-backed

Peer-reviewed sources

Interactive

Color Calculator

Trusted by

Breeders Worldwide

2nd Edition

Updated & Expanded

Our Mission

Where Passion Meets Precision Genetics

Poodle Genetics Lab was founded on a simple but profound conviction: every breeder deserves access to the same depth of genetic understanding that research scientists possess. For too long, the science of coat color inheritance has been locked behind dense academic papers and fragmented forum posts, leaving breeders to navigate complex decisions with incomplete information.

We synthesize peer-reviewed research on canine genetics, from the TYRP1 gene’s role in brown pigmentation to the nuanced interactions between the E, K, and A loci, and translate it into practical, actionable knowledge, clearly labeling the handful of traits (like progressive greying) where the science is still incomplete. Whether you’re predicting the probability of producing a silver parti poodle or understanding why two “black” dogs can produce a brown puppy, our guides give you the molecular context to make truly informed choices.

Our commitment extends beyond coat color education. We believe responsible breeding includes understanding the health implications embedded in the genome, particularly the serious risks associated with certain genotype combinations like double merle. The same science that produces breathtaking colors can, in the wrong hands, produce preventable suffering. We take that responsibility seriously.

Evidence-Based ResearchAcademic Sources CitedBreeder-Tested

The standard we hold

  • Traced to the literature

    Every genetics claim points to a peer-reviewed source, cited on the page.

  • Rated by strength of evidence

    Findings carry an evidence rating, so settled science is never dressed up as an open question, or the reverse.

  • Corrected in the open

    When the science moves or we get something wrong, the page says so, with a date.

  • No invented numbers

    If a statistic cannot be sourced, it does not appear here, however convenient it would be.

Interactive Tool

Predict Your Litter’s Colors Instantly

Enter the genotypes of both parents and our calculator computes the probability of each coat color outcome, with health risk warnings built in.

poodlegenetics.com/calculator

Parent A, Dam

B/b (Black, carries brown)

Parent B, Sire

B/b (Black, carries brown)

Predicted Offspring, B Locus

An illustrative single-gene example. The full calculator works across every locus at once.

B/B, black, does not carry brown
25%
B/b, black, carries brown
50%
b/b, brown
25%
Phenotype: about 75% black-based, 25% brown. No health-risk genotype combinations in this single-gene example.
Try the Full Calculator

Free to use, no account required

Genetics Guide

Start with the Science

View all guides
Practical Breeding

The Poodle Half of Your Doodle

Every doodle is genetically half Poodle. Coat color, merle risk, and shade intensity in a Goldendoodle, Cavapoo, or Bernedoodle trace back to the same loci as purebred Poodles.

6 min readRead Article
Coat Color Basics

Poodle Colors and Patterns: The Complete Guide (10 Solid Colors + 9 Markings)

Every recognized poodle coat color and pattern, explained by the genetics behind it: 10 solid colors, 9 patterns and markings, and which ones can compete in conformation.

10 min readRead Article
Book Updates

The Poodle Genetics Book Series: What's Actually in Each Volume

A three-volume reference on poodle genetics: color inheritance, merle and dilution, and inherited health and structure. What's in each book, and which one to start with.

8 min readRead Article
The Complete Poodle Genetics Series — Volumes I, II & III, by Xyon Marley
3 Volumes1 Price
$99.00$134.97
The Complete Series

All Three Volumes, One Price

The entire Poodle Genetics series as PDF eBooks, delivered together at checkout — color genetics, merle and dilution, and health and structure. Buying all three direct normally runs $134.97; the bundle is $99.00.

  • Volume I — Color Genetics: every locus, inheritance tables, reference plates
  • Volume II — Merle & Dilution: the M locus, double-merle risk, dilution genetics
  • Volume III — Health & Structure: form, function, and inherited disease
  • All three delivered together at checkout, referenced against the current peer-reviewed literature

Join Our Poodle Genetics Community

The Poodle Genetics Lab Facebook group is an active, free community for poodle breeders and owners. Share breeding records, ask genotype questions, get feedback from experienced breeders, and stay current with new tools and guides. It’s completely free to join.

Active discussions with breeders and PGL staff

Share litter photos and verify coat color predictions

Weekly Q&A threads on specific loci and phenotypes

First access to new calculator features and guides

Join the Facebook Group
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