The Merle French Bulldog is a relatively new and rare breed of dog that has been gaining popularity since its arrival in the United States in the late 2000s.
With its unique coloration and lovable personality, it's no wonder why so many people are drawn to this breed.
From its striking coat pattern to its health concerns to its loving and playful nature, this article will cover everything you need to know about Merle French Bulldogs.
With their regal looks and friendly personalities, Merle French Bulldogs make excellent companions for any family. They are loyal and affectionate, eager to please their owners, and generally get along well with other pets and children.
But there are some health concerns to consider when caring for a Merle French Bulldog, and their coat color can be a bit tricky to manage.
So before you decide to bring one of these beautiful dogs home, read on to learn about the characteristics, health concerns, and other important information about Merle French Bulldogs.
Characteristics of Merle French Bulldogs
Merle French Bulldogs are a unique and beautiful breed of Bulldogs. These dogs have a unique coat pattern characterized by splotches and patches of color.
Merle French Bulldogs have a medium-to-long coat that is thick and silky to the touch. They typically have a muscular body and are stocky and well-proportioned.
Merle French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and affectionate personality, making them great pets. This breed is also quite active, but they enjoy lots of cuddles and snuggles.
Merle French Bulldog Coat Patterns
The merle coat pattern in French Bulldogs is a relatively new development in the breed. It is believed to have been introduced through the use of merle-colored Pugs and Boston Terriers in breeding programs. The merle gene is a naturally occurring genetic mutation that causes the coat to have a mottled, or marbled, appearance.
The most common colors for Merle French Bulldogs are blue, black, and white, although other colors may also be available. The coat of a Merle French Bulldog is made up of a combination of colors, including white, tan, gray, and black. The nose and eyes are usually a darker color than the rest of the coat.
What is the Difference Between Merle French Bulldog and the Brindle French Bulldog?
The main difference between merle and brindle French bulldogs is in the coloring of their coats. Merle French Bulldogs have a unique pattern on their coats that combines two or more colors, usually red, blue, black, or fawn. This pattern creates a mottled or patchy look.
On the other hand, Brindle French bulldogs have a striped or tiger-like pattern on their coats. This pattern is usually made up of black, brown, and red stripes. Brindle bulldogs do not have the same mottled look that merle bulldogs do.
Another difference between merle and brindle bulldogs is how rare they are. Merle French Bulldogs are considered to be quite rare, and due to their unique pattern and color, they can be pretty expensive. Brindle French Bulldogs are not as rare, but they still have their own unique pattern and color.
“Merle” is simply another word for “pattern.” Sometimes breeders will use the word “dappled” instead of merle.
The striking coat of the merle french bulldog is the result of a genetic pairing of a dominant merle gene from one parent and a recessive gene from the other. It’s this merle gene that “dilutes” pigmentation to produce the dappled effect. While we may think that the merle aesthetic is limited to the fur, it also influences the coloring of the eyes and the nose. A blue merle French Bulldog’s eyes can be blue or any array of blue. Their nose is pink or patterned with the red pigmentation, which, delightfully enough, is called a butterfly nose.
Because the biggest concern for any breeder is health, physique, and temperament, breeding must be done with skill as merle-to-merle breeding can produce double merle (or MM) pups. When this happens, the offspring are prone to significant health problems such as partial or full deafness, blindness, and skeletal defects. They can also experience a higher sensitivity to UV rays and experience a higher rate of skin cancer. Purchasing a Merle French Bulldog Puppy? Be sure to research your breeder carefully and ask for genetic documentation.
Health Concerns of Merle French Bulldogs
Merle French Bulldogs are prone to a few health concerns, but these can usually be managed with proper care. Some of the most common health concerns of Merle French Bulldogs include eye problems, hip dysplasia, and allergies.
Eye problems can occur due to genetic factors or from poor diet. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hips, and it can be caused by several factors, including genetic predisposition and breeding. As with any breed of dog, regular exercise is key to preventing hip dysplasia.
And while allergies are common in all dogs, Merle French Bulldogs are especially prone to them. Allergic reactions can range from minor symptoms like sneezing, ear drooping and watery eyes to life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis.
French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning that they have a short, broad head and a flattened face. This can cause a number of respiratory issues, including difficulty breathing and overheating.
Some of the specific respiratory issues that French Bulldogs may be prone to include:
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome: This condition is characterized by a narrow and elongated soft palate, small nostrils, and abnormally large tonsils. These features can make it difficult for French Bulldogs to breathe and can lead to problems such as loud breathing, snoring, and difficulty exercising.
- Tracheal collapse: This condition occurs when the trachea (windpipe) becomes weakened and collapses, making it difficult for the dog to breathe.
- Laryngeal paralysis: This condition occurs when the muscles that control the larynx (voice box) become paralyzed, making it difficult for the dog to breathe.
It’s important to remember that not all French Bulldogs will develop these health problems, and many Frenchies live long, healthy lives. However, it is important to be aware of these potential health concerns and to work with a veterinarian to monitor and manage any issues that may arise.
Temperament of Merle French Bulldogs
The temperament of Merle French Bulldogs can vary depending on their individual personality and the environment in which they are raised. Generally, Merle French Bulldogs are known to be loyal, affectionate, and gentle.
They are usually very social and enjoy being around people, so they make great family pets. Merle French Bulldogs are also very intelligent and can be easy to train. They are often very obedient and can be taught basic commands as well as tricks.
Merle French Bulldogs are also known to be quite active and have a lot of energy. They love to play, run, and explore and need much exercise. They are also very curious and require a lot of stimulation to keep them engaged.
Merle French Bulldogs are known to be a bit more independent-minded than other French Bulldogs and can often be more stubborn. They can be quite vocal, so it is important to be consistent with training and reinforce positive behaviors with treats and praise.
Training and Exercise Requirements
All dogs need training and exercise to stay healthy and happy, and this is especially true for Merle French Bulldogs.
Training should begin early to ensure that the pup learns how to behave and responds to commands. Merle French Bulldogs are usually quite intelligent
But also stubborn, so it may take some patience and persistence to train them effectively. Especially when trying to potty train. Patience is key.
It’s also important to socialize your merle bulldog from a young age to help them become confident and well-rounded dogs. This can be done through exposure to new people, places, and experiences.
Exercise is also an important part of keeping a Merle French Bulldog healthy. Puppies under the age of 12 months should not be exercised excessively, as this could lead to joint and mobility issues later on in life.
Instead, they should be given short, low-intensity walks with plenty of rest in between. As they get older, the amount of exercise they need can increase. It is important to remember that every dog is different and let them set their own pace. If they look to be slowing down or struggling, it may be time to head back home.
Play is also an important part of a Merle French Bulldog’s exercise routine. Playing with their owners and other dogs can provide the necessary physical and mental stimulation that a dog needs. Toys such as Kongs and lick mats can also help to keep them entertained and engaged.
Do Merle French Bulldogs Shed?
Like all French Bulldogs, Merle French Bulldogs do shed, but the amount of shedding can vary from dog to dog. French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that is relatively easy to care for, but they do shed moderately throughout the year.
Merle French Bulldogs have a unique coat pattern characterized by random blotches of color on a base coat, and the amount of shedding will depend on the individual dog's coat type and texture. French Bulldogs are not considered to be a heavy-shedding breed, but they do require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and clean. Regular brushing and occasional baths can help keep shedding to a minimum and prevent matting and tangles in their coat.
It's worth noting that excessive shedding or changes in a dog's shedding patterns can be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as a skin allergy or hormonal imbalance. If you're concerned about your Merle French Bulldog's shedding, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health issues and ensure your dog's overall health and well-being.
Do Micro Merle French Bulldogs Exist?
While some breeders may advertise "micro merle" French Bulldogs, it is important to note that breeding for extremely small size or specific coat colors, including merle, can increase the risk of health problems and should be avoided by responsible breeders. Additionally, some dogs advertised as "merle" French Bulldogs may actually be the result of crossbreeding with another breed, which can also increase the risk of health problems and may result in dogs that do not meet the breed standard.
Other Exotic French Bulldog Colors
While Merle French Bulldogs are known for their distinctive coat pattern, there are several other exotic coloring options available in the breed. Lilac French Bulldogs have a unique coat color that is a light shade of grayish-purple, while Platinum Frenchies have a silvery-white coat that is highly sought after. Red Fawn French Bulldogs have a rich red hue to their coat, and Fluffy Frenchies have a longer and more wavy coat than a traditional Frenchie.
It's important to keep in mind that while exotic coloring can make a French Bulldog stand out in a crowd, it's crucial to prioritize the health and well-being of the breed when breeding for specific coat colors or patterns. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and temperament of the breed over appearance, and carefully select breeding pairs based on factors such as health, temperament, and genetic diversity.
It's also important to note that while French Bulldogs with exotic coloring may be highly sought after, they can also be prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems and skin allergies. As such, it's important to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your Frenchie's health and address any health issues promptly to ensure the best chance of a long and healthy life. By choosing a responsible breeder and providing your Frenchie with proper care, you can help ensure that they thrive, regardless of their coat color or pattern.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a great family pet, the merle french bulldog may be for you. They are sturdy and a pretty durable family dog. They can be a bit stubborn but still make a great friendly pet.
Their beautiful and rare color can make this dog really stand out. They also come with a high price tag that you should be aware of. With dogs like this, you should also consider the safety of the pup as French Bulldogs have become highly coveted and have been widely known to be stolen from owners.
Make sure you get your pup microchipped and if possible get a GPS tracking collar. A GPS collar makes sure you know the location of your dog at all times. This can be helpful in many instances.
The Fi GPS collar is a great tool for tracking how much exercise your dog gets each day. They are equipped with an activity monitor that keeps track of your dog's walks, when they go for walks, how long they exercise, and even when they sleep.
For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi.com.
Want to know more about TryFi.com? The Fi Dog Collar is a GPS tracking collar that not only keeps track of your dog’s location, activity levels, and sleep patterns, but it also alerts you if your dog escapes your backyard. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today!
