The truth is that they all fit under the “albinism spectrum”. The difference is that the white Doberman Pinscher is not considered to be a true albino because of some pigmentation they have in their fur, skin, or eyes/nose.

So, if we look deeply into these two dogs (of completely the same breed!) we can see some differences. Is that important to know?

They are important just like it is important to know the difference in size between a Miniature, Medium, or Giant Schnauzer.

They are important to all of us who want to know more about our beloved dogs.

What Is The Difference?

The main difference is that the true albino Doberman Pinscher does not have any pigmentation anywhere on its skin, fur, nose, or eyelids – nowhere. 

Their eyes are blue or gray with a red shine. The red comes from the blood vessels that are easily seen because of the lack of eye pigmentation.

On the other hand, a white Doberman Pinscher can have some pigmentation and even black or brown eye color. They can also have patches of dark(er) fur color anywhere on the body and they do not have to have pink noses or eyelids.

True Albino Doberman

• White fur/yellowish hue
• Pink eyelids
• Pink nose
• blue/gray eyes
• Pink paw pads
• No pigmentation anywhere
• Sensitive to sunlight
• Have sight problems
• Can have hearing problems
• Prone to skin cancer/tumors

White Doberman

• White fur/yellowish hue 
• Pigmentation possible/can be present
• Usually pink eyelids and nose but not necessary
• blue/gray eyes
• Sensitive to sunlight
• Have sight problems
• Can have hearing problems
• Prone to skin cancer/tumors

Genetics Behind Albinism

Albinism is not one gene causing one thing. There are many forms of albinism and many genes that play a part. According to a study, a partial deletion of a certain gene (called the SLC45A2 gene) causes oculocutaneous albinism in Doberman Pinscher dogs.

 Oculocutaneous means eye and skin albinism – lack of pigmentation. This type of gene deletion/mutation that causes albinism in Doberman Pinscher dogs can also be found in humans, tigers, gorillas, and horses. It is called OCA4 or oculocutaneous albinism Type 4.

This finding is important because it allowed the scientists to create DNA tests to determine if a dog carries this mutation. If it does, we should not breed the dog because of the risk of getting an albino dog. Although, some want exactly that!

Controversy Behind White/Albino Dobermans

The controversy comes from the health problems that follow the mentioned gene mutations and albinism. These health problems are not only connected to albino Doberman Pinschers but also other dogs and other albino animals.

The main problem is the lack of pigment which protects the skin and eyes from the sunlight. When it’s lacking, the skin and eyes are susceptible to mutations – cancer. There is no pigment to protect them so these cancerous mutations are more common in albino Dobermans.

Also, they will have poor eyesight no matter the lighting, especially in bright sunlight. Again, the reason is the lack of pigmentation this time in the iris of the eye. This means that you will have to protect your white Doberman from the sunlight because it will hurt its eyes – it will cause literal pain. 

Think of it like going outside on a bright day from a dark basement. It hurts you to look until your eyes adjust. Dobermans cannot fully adjust, hence the constant painful sensation.

However, deafness is not a trait that follows every albino or white Doberman. It is possible but not a certainty. So, simply said, albinism does not make a dog deaf.

Breeding Controversy 

Another problem caused by humans is unethical breeding programs to produce more white or albino Doberman Pinschers. In order to make “the right amount” of new white Doberman pups, some breeders decided to inbreed their dogs.

As you know, inbreeding causes a lot of health problems – psychological deformities and mental disabilities. But, they didn’t mind as long as they could sell the puppies to even more ignorant buyers.

However, this does not mean that all albino Dobermans have mentioned controversial health issues. A puppy can be born an albino and perfectly healthy! So, you can register your Doberman as a white Doberman but it is not considered a standard AKC color.

The Doberman Pinscher Club Of America (DPCA) states “…the DPCA strongly opposes the breeding of Dobermans by those who do so without regard for the dog’s health and welfare which includes, without limitation, breeders who breed albino Dobermans”

This means that as long as you follow the breeding protocols with your dog’s health as a priority – an albino/white Doberman is not a mistake. It’s a beautiful dog that will need your help.

Conclusion

White Doberman Pinscher is an albino Doberman just not completely albino. That means it can have some pigmentations (colorations) on its fur or it can have darker-colored eyes.

But a real albino Doberman has no pigmentations and its eyes are always blue or grayish.

The important thing is not whether you have a true albino or not, it is to keep it healthy. They need sun protection for their skin (including their noses)  and eyes. 

Cover their bodies when going outside, put on doggy sunglasses, and/or apply sunscreen designed for dogs. Avoid long sun exposure and play with your dog at night.

Keep in mind they have bad eyesight and that you need to be patient with them more so than with “normal” Dobermans. But, if you do it all correctly, protect them, and care for them, you’ll have a truly beautiful best furry friend for years to come. 

Featured Photo by: YamaBSM