Dove is a very smooth, warm pinkish-grey color, sometimes darkening to an almost dust color. Because it is derived from Russian Blue, the hairs on the body will be heathered, giving a faintly mottled effect. Because Mink colors are so sensitive to carried recessives, it is best to keep a line breeding Dove as free as possible from undesired recessives such as Beige or American Blue. The eyes should be as dark as possible, ideally black.

a/a d/d m/m

A Dove is a Black rat with a double recessive of both Russian Blue and Mink.

AFRMA

"Color to be a warm dove with ticking throughout similar to Russian blue. Not to be confused with platinum or lilac. Eye color is black."

RSA

"Color: To be a warm pink gray. Faint light speckling or a subtle ticked effect (heathering) is usual for this variety and is not a fault. Color to be even throughout. Not to be confused with platinum or lilac. Belly color to match top, undercolor pale gray to the skin. Eye Color: Dark Ruby or Black."

RatsPacNW

"Russian blue and mink combined."

URS

"Color is to be a warm-toned dusty gray, with a subtle ticking or heathering effect on each hair and slightly darker guard hairs. Color should be even throughout, and consistent down to the skin. Belly color to match top color, feet to be light. Eyes to be dark Ruby to Black."

Dove Buck (c) Gabriel Edson