Some horses and ponies may carry a recognised colour-pattern gene without displaying the extent of white patterning traditionally associated with a coloured horse. CHAPS UK may consider such animals for registration within its genetically colour-tested category.

To be considered, the animal must demonstrate visible characteristics indicating that a colour-pattern gene may be present. These may include a significantly extended white face marking, extended white leg markings, belly splashes or other qualifying white patterning. Conventional facial and lower-leg markings alone may not be sufficient.

Before arranging DNA testing, owners must email CHAPS UK Admin with clear, current photographs showing:

The front and rear of the animal
The complete left and right sides
All facial, leg, belly and other white markings
Any additional features that may indicate expression of a colour-pattern gene

Details of any known parentage should also be provided.

The photographs will be reviewed by the CHAPS UK White Markings Committee. Owners will then be advised whether the animal displays sufficient visible indication to proceed to DNA testing. Testing must be undertaken at the owner’s expense using the CHAPS UK-approved process.

A positive DNA result does not automatically guarantee acceptance, registration or eligibility to compete in CHAPS UK coloured showing classes. The genetic result and the animal’s visible expression will be considered together by the White Markings Committee in accordance with the current CHAPS UK eligibility criteria.

Animals that satisfy both the genetic and visible-expression requirements and are formally accepted by CHAPS UK may be registered or overstamped within the genetically colour-tested category. They will be issued with the appropriate CHAPS UK identification bridle disc and will be eligible to compete in the relevant CHAPS UK-affiliated coloured classes, subject to the Society’s current rules.

Owners should obtain approval from CHAPS UK before undertaking DNA testing, as testing an animal without prior photographic assessment does not guarantee eligibility.

Animals with the fading colour gene, common with grey (blue) and whites, when colour definition is not apparent will be known as “historical” coloureds. It is at the discretion of the owner whether or not an animal which is historically coloured should be shown.