Guess what? Your grey arab, mini and 17 hh TB have something in common...
Researchers in Sweden have just announced a discovery - grey horses carry an identical mutation that can be traced back to a common ancestor that lived thousands of years ago:
Identical mutation found in all grey horses - researchers | Horsetalk - International horse news
It is thought the grey mutation occurred only once and was preferentially bred by early equestrians around 10,000 years ago, as it was distinctive and novel. Grey/white horses have been (and still are) the colour of choice for ceremonial occasions in many cultures.
As for the downside with greys - they hope to learn more on the melanomas that plague grey horses.
Thanks to a non-stockie friend for the link!