¶ White Markings
White markings will mostly be caused by genetics, but a small random effect does contribute too. Don’t be worried though if you, say, want to breed for solid black Friesians; the random effect is small and won’t make big surprises. In total there are 11 genes which will control white marking location and ‘size’. This does not include the white pattern genes (Tobiano, Splash, Frame or Sabino). I will say though that a couple of the white marking genes can be tested for (aside from the white pattern genes), however they aren’t labeled as such. Sorry, that's all we will say. :)
You will be able to breed for white markings with different sizes at different locations. White markings can appear at six locations on each horse’s body. They are:
1. The forehead
2. The nose/muzzle
3-6. Each individual leg
Some locations may also be more likely to have markings than others, based on real life (though we won't tell the specifics!). The markings can then range in size from nose specks to full face stripes, and from coronet bands to socks.
¶ Marking examples
Forehead Markings
Nose Markings
Leg Markings
The above markings all are genetically independent of the other, and all legs are as well. This means that you can breed for all sorts of marking combinations! Like this:
¶ What about larger markings such as blazes, bald faces, and stockings?
These markings are in Legacy, but they are only caused by the pinto pattern genes (frame, splash, sabino and tobiano). If you want stockings, splash, sabino and tobiano will get you there. If you want blazes and bald faces, breed for frame, splash or sabino.