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French bulldogs are known for their easygoing and playful temperament making them a popular pet for many. In addition to this, some feature the merle gene which gives them a stunning fur coat and striking blue eyes. Below you’ll discover more about merle French bulldogs and why they’re so sought after.
1. Merle is a type of genetic condition that creates a unique type of pattern on a dog’s coat
This gene results in various pattern styles that occur either in solid or piebald forms. While it mainly affects a dog’s coat, it can also result in heterochromia iridum, a condition that causes the eyes to be different colors.
2. Double Merle
If two merle dogs are bred together, each litter has a 25% chance of being born a double merle. A double merle inherits the merle gene twice. Unlike a regular merle dog, a double merle dog’s coat is almost completely white but has a few splotches of color throughout it. Double merles also have a very high chance of being born blind, deaf or both.
3. Two merle French bulldogs need to be bred together to make another.
While most of the puppies will be regular merle French bulldogs, there is a slight chance of one being a double merle one.
However, some dog breeders have found that two merle French bulldogs don’t have to be bred in order to create merle puppies. A few have bred a French bulldog with another merle dog, like a chihuahua, to create a litter of merle French bulldogs.
Depending on the dogs bred, the color variations of the puppies will vary. Some of the most common types of merle French bulldogs feature black, lilac, or blue coats.
4. Merle French Bulldogs Have Blue Eyes
One of the most distinctive features of the merle French bulldog is its vibrant blue eyes. These are the result of their body containing the M-locus (or merle) gene. This gene causes random pigment dilution which lightens their eye color.
While this gene is what mainly causes blue eyes in merle French bulldogs, sometimes the ALX4 gene will as well. If a French bulldog has this gene, they will likely have blue eyes. On the other hand, if a French bulldog doesn’t have the ALX4 gene they will probably have brown eyes.
In addition to this, some merle French bulldogs might have blue eyes because of low melanin levels. If their body doesn’t have a high amount of this amino acid, the dog has a better chance of developing blue eyes.
5. Merle French Bulldogs Are More Expensive Than Regular French Bulldogs
Because this type of French bulldog is not natural, its cost is significantly higher. These canines can be priced anywhere from $6,000-$8,000 unlike a regular French bulldog that costs around $1,500-$3,000.
Besides the purchase price, merle French bulldogs are expensive to care for. They have a voracious appetite and, because of their genetic composition, tend to need to visit the vet often.
6. These dogs are somewhat rare, so it can be difficult to find one
To locate a breeder, you can usually do a quick online search. However, this doesn’t always indicate that the breeders are reputable. To ensure you’re buying from an ethical breeder, you should always make sure to ask for the dog’s DNA test and have a quick vet examination done.
7. Merle French Bulldogs Aren’t Purebred
This is because to create a merle French bulldog, sometimes different dog breeds are needed. To be considered a purebred, the dog must have parents of the same breed.
Are Merle French Bulldogs Recognized by the AKC? Can They Be AKC Registered?
Most merle French bulldogs can be registered by the AKC, but they aren’t considered a standard breed color. Despite this, the AKC still recognizes them.
To register a merle French bulldog with the AKC, you’ll first need to obtain an AKC registration form. After doing so, take pictures of your pet. The photos should show your dog from the front and the side. Then, write the AKC registration number (found on the form) and your dog’s name on the back of the photos. Once you do this, fill out the rest of the registration form and then mail it to the address printed on the top.
8. Merle French Bulldogs Have Health Issues
One of the most common problems is genetic deformities. Because this dog has a unique genetic condition, it could result in stunted limbs, blindness, or deafness. Numerous merle French bulldogs also suffer from allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs, and hip dysplasia.
You’ll also need to keep in mind that because they have such light-colored eyes, they could have some eye abnormalities. Some of the common problems being one eye is bigger than the other, one eye is covered by a nictitating membrane, cataracts, and coloboma.
9. There is a wide debate over whether it’s ethical to buy a merle French bulldog
Many say that it’s important to purchase a merle French bulldog, otherwise, these sweet creatures would end up in animal shelters. Those who are against it claim that it only makes it easier for disreputable breeders to stay in business. They also state that because this type of French bulldog tends to have significant health problems they live in agony.
If you want to purchase a merle French bulldog, you’ll need to be prepared for possible health issues. It’s also vital to ensure that the dog is from an ethical breeder. This will make sure that the dogs receive proper nutrition, care, and socialization. An ethical breeder will usually be happy to answer any questions you have about their dogs.
Merle French bulldogs are beautiful animals known for their distinctive coat pattern. While very patient and affectionate dogs, they do have some serious health concerns due to their genetic condition.