The Merle French Bulldog is a relatively new color variation of the French Bulldog breed that has gained popularity for its unique and eye-catching appearance.
This breed is known for its mottled coat pattern of patches in various shades of blue-gray and fawn. While the Merle French Bulldog is undeniably charming and adorable, there are concerns about the breeding practices used to produce this color variation and its potential health risks.
In this article, we will explore the origins, characteristics, and potential health issues of the Merle French Bulldog to help you decide if this is the right breed of dog for you.
A Brief Overview of Merle French Bulldog
| Other Names | Merle Frenchie, Merle Bulldog Frances, French Bulldog Merle |
| Purity | Purebred |
| Purpose | Companion |
| AKC Recognition | No |
| Size | Toy |
| Weight Range | 20-28 pounds |
| Height Range | 11-13 inches |
| Coat Colors | Blue, fawn, lilac, tan, chocolate, cream, Isabella, red, brown, grey, black, champagne, lavender, silver, brindle |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Average Puppy Cost | $6,000-$12,000 |
What is a Merle French Bulldog?
Are you familiar with French Bulldog colors like Fawn, Black, and Brindle? How about the Merle Frenchies?
“What’s that?” Merle isn’t technically a color but rather a pattern of colors that creates a speckled or mottled look. Imagine many colors like black, gray, white, and brown. All mixed up in a mesmerizing design.
The Merle gene creates this stunning Merle look, which affects how much melanin, the pigment that gives color to the hair is distributed.
What Does a Merle French Bulldog Look Like?
One of the most characteristic traits of Merle Frenchie is their eyes. Some have bright blue eyes that shine like sapphires, while others have dark brown eyes that could melt your heart. And don’t even get me started on those who have one blue eye and one brown eye – they’re real head-turners!
Their coat is another standout feature. Merle Frenchies have a mottled or speckled pattern that can mix colors like black, gray, white, and brown. Some may even have a tri-colored coat that’s just jaw-dropping. But wait, it gets even better – there are rare Merle Frenchies with bi-color coats that are just stunning!
Size, height, and weight
It’s worth noting that the size of a Merle French Bulldog (Frenchie) may vary depending on the individual dog’s genetics and environmental factors such as diet and exercise.
However, on average, French Bulldogs typically weigh between 20-28 pounds and stand about 11-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
It’s also important to remember that overweight Frenchies can experience various health issues, so it’s crucial to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly for your pup.
| Merle French Bulldog | |
| Size Group | Toy |
| Weight | 20-28 pounds |
| Height | 11-13 inches |
Coat colors and types
Have you heard about the many different types of Merle French Bulldogs? If you thought Merle was just one color pattern, think again! There are tons of Merle variations out there.
From Blue Fawn Merle to Lilac Fawn Merle to Chocolate Fawn Merle, Merle can mix with all sorts of coat colors! And don’t forget about the ever-popular Black Merle Frenchies – they’re sure to turn heads with their stunning mottled black patches. Each Merle variation has its unique blend of colors, making them truly one-of-a-kind.
1. Merle Frenchies
A Merle Frenchie is a French Bulldog that has a Merle coat pattern. This pattern creates patches of color that are lighter or darker than the base coat color and can also generate speckling or mottling.
2.Blue Merle Frenchie
These little guys are French Bulldogs with a Merle coat pattern with a blue-gray base color, and let me tell you, they are a sight to behold! Their coat features lighter or darker blue patches that can give them a stunning, speckled appearance, and they may also have white or tan markings to add to their charm.
Whether you’re a fan of the blue hue or can’t resist the unique beauty of the Merle pattern, a Blue Merle Frenchie will surely steal your heart.
3.Chocolate Merle Frenchie
Oh my, have you heard of a Chocolate Merle Frenchie? It’s a unique French Bulldog with a Merle coat pattern with a luscious chocolate base coat. This color is stunning and can range from dark chocolate to lighter shades.
With the Merle pattern, you can expect to see patches of lighter or darker color throughout the coat and sometimes even white or tan markings. These little pups are rare and stand out in a crowd!
4. Lilac Merle Frenchies
Lilac Merle French Bulldogs are a true sight, but spotting one can be challenging! At first glance, they may seem similar to Blue Merle Frenchies, but their unique appearance sets them apart from the pack.
Lilac Merle Frenchies have a light coat with ashy or silver-colored patches that create a beautiful and distinct look. This rare color is achieved when both parents carry the blue, chocolate, and merle genes.
The eyes of Lilac Merle French Bulldogs are another noteworthy feature, as they often have a red glow that’s hard to miss.
5. Isabella Merle French Bulldog
The Isabella Merle French Bulldog is so rare that it’s considered the holy grail of the Frenchie world! These dogs combine blue, chocolate, and the elusive Merle gene, producing a unique and stunning champagne color that will turn heads.
Finding an Isabella Merle Frenchie is like finding a needle in a haystack, and it’s no wonder why breeders are always on the hunt for these rare beauties. If you’re lucky enough to find one, be prepared to pay a pretty penny!
6. Black Merle French Bulldog
Feast your eyes on the black Merle French Bulldog! This furry friend is a beauty to behold, with its black patches speckled with shades of black and white. The base coat of these Frenchies is a little darker than other Merle Frenchies and ranges from light grey to light brown.
7. Fawn Merle French Bulldogs
Fawn Merle French Bulldogs are not your typical Frenchies. With their unique coat pattern, they come in various shades and colors, such as blue fawn, lilac fawn, and chocolate fawn. Slightly darker patches complement the light fawn base color but are not as distinct as in other merle variations.
Temperament and Personality
The Merle French Bulldog’s personality is quite the head-scratcher, as they are known to be both friendly and stubborn at the same time. These furry pals are brilliant and love to cuddle up with their human friends. They also have a playful nature and great humor, making them excellent family pets.
At the same time, Merle Frenchies can be pretty headstrong and independent, making them challenging to train. They may also be stubborn, which means they might only sometimes obey commands. This makes consistent training and socialization crucial to ensure that your furry friend grows up to be a well-behaved and happy dog.
Is Merle Frenchie a good fit for families?
Merle French Bulldogs are fantastic family pets, and they get along well with children of all ages and other pets and animals.
These Frenchies don’t bark excessively and thrive in the company of their loved ones. The Merle pattern adds to their overall charm and makes them adorable to any family, regardless of size.
Are Merle Bulldogs aggressive?
No, contrary to popular belief, Merle French Bulldogs are not aggressive at all. These furry little friends are known to be some of the sweetest and most loving pets.
Training
The Merle French Bulldog is known to be a smart pup, and with the right training approach, it can be a breeze.
However, they also have a reputation for being headstrong and stubborn, so you must be consistent and have a solid plan to train them effectively.
Exercise Requirements
Merle Frenchies don’t need extensive exercise routines but require a fair amount of daily activity to maintain their well-being and happiness.
Living Conditions
The Merle-colored Frenchie is adaptable to any home, whether a spacious house or a small apartment.
However, you must ensure your Merle French Bulldog is safe from harsh weather conditions like extreme heat or cold. Please provide them with proper shelter and adequate protection to keep them comfortable.
Grooming and Cleaning
Thankfully, Merle French Bulldogs are blessed with a short and low-maintenance coat.
- Brushing their skin at least 1-2 a week is recommended to control their moderate shedding. This also helps to distribute natural oils throughout their body.
- When it comes to dental health, Frenchies are prone to dental disease due to their shorter skulls and jaws.
- Therefore, brushing their teeth daily or at least 2-3 times a week is crucial to prevent plaque and tartar build-up, which can lead to tooth decay and gum infection.
| Grooming Need | Frequency |
| Hair Brushing | Weekly |
| Bathing | Every 6 weeks or as needed |
| Skinfold Cleaning | Every two weeks with a damp cloth |
| Ear Cleaning | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Tooth Cleaning | Daily |
| Nail Trimming | Every 4 weeks |
Food and Diet
When it comes to feeding Merle French Bulldogs, giving them the right amount of food that suits their age, size, and activity level is essential.
- You’ll want to choose a high-quality dog food with a balanced and complete nutrient profile.This means the dog food you choose for your Merle Frenchie should have all the essential nutrients your dog needs, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. You’ll want to avoid dog foods that contain fillers or artificial ingredients, as these can cause health problems for your furry friend.
- Keeping your Merle French Bulldog at a healthy weight is also essential. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. So, make sure you monitor your dog’s food intake and provide them with enough exercise to keep them fit and healthy.
- Furthermore, consider giving your Merle Frenchie some healthy treats. These can include raw vegetables, fruits, and dog-friendly human food such as cooked chicken or beef. However, it’s important not to overdo it with treats as they can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
In summary, feeding your Merle French Bulldog with a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs is crucial for their health and well-being. You should also keep an eye on their weight and provide them with enough exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
Common Health Issues
Hold on to your leash because Merle French Bulldogs are not the healthiest pups in the pack. At the same time, all Frenchies are more likely to have health problems than other breeds: Merle Frenchies, especially “double Merles,” face even more challenges.
A double Merle is typically the offspring of two Merle dogs bred together, a practice that most breeding organizations and veterinarians discourage due to the heightened risk of health issues.
When doubled up, the Merle gene can result in severe vision and hearing impairments and increased susceptibility to skin and coat problems. Therefore, purchasing a Merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder who conducts health testing on their breeding dogs is essential to help minimize these risks.
1. Eyes problems
Be mindful that French Bulldogs can experience a range of eye problems. Cherry eye, an ailment characterized by the tear gland bulging out of its usual position, cataracts, which lead to haziness in the lens of the eye; entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward; and distichiasis, where an abnormal eyelash grows from a wrong location, are all conditions that can affect the peepers of Frenchies.
2. Deafness
Deafness is a common issue in French Bulldogs, especially in those with the Merle gene, and it can affect one or both ears. However, double Merles have an even greater risk of developing deafness, which can be a significant concern for owners.
3. Skin issues
Skin issues are common in Merle French Bulldogs. Due to their lighter skin pigmentation, they are more susceptible to sun sensitivity and have higher skin cancer rates than other Frenchies.
So, providing them with adequate protection and care is essential to avoid any potential skin problems.
4. Allergies
Allergies — the bane of many French Bulldogs’ existences! These furry little guys can be allergic to various environmental factors, including pesky pollen, peskier dust, and even certain types of food.
Some common symptoms of allergies in Frenchies include itching, skin irritation, and digestive woes.
5. Breathing issues
French Bulldogs are well known for their cute flat faces and short snouts, but these features can have a downside – breathing issues. These include narrowed nostrils, a soft palate that’s too long and obstructs the airway, and tracheal collapse, where the trachea gets flattened or even collapses.
These breathing issues can lead to symptoms such as coughing, gagging, and trouble breathing – especially during exercise or in hot weather.
6. Joint issues
Joint issues are a significant concern for French Bulldogs, as they are prone to various problems.
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation (where the knee joint dislocates), and arthritis are all common conditions that can cause pain and mobility problems. These issues can make it difficult for Frenchies to move around, run, or play, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Monitoring your Frenchie’s joint health and taking preventive measures such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
7. Spinal problems
The French Bulldog breed is prone to respiratory, eye, skin, and joint issues and spinal problems that can have severe consequences.
Hemivertebrae, a spinal deformity, is one of the most common issues found in Frenchies. Intervertebral disc disease, which occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine degenerate or rupture, is also prevalent.
Moreover, degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord, can cause significant mobility issues for affected dogs.
How Long Does a Merle French Bulldog Live?
Determining the lifespan of a Merle French Bulldog is a complex matter influenced by various factors.
While the average lifespan ranges between 10 to 12 years, the interplay of genetics, environment, and epigenetics shape the individual lifespan of each dog.
How Much is The Price of Merle French Bulldog?
Are you dreaming of owning a Merle French Bulldog? Be prepared to dig deep into your pockets because these furry friends don’t come cheap. You’re looking at a whopping $6,500 or more to get your hands on a well-bred Merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder. It’s not just because they are fancy and rare but because breeding Frenchies can be costly and complicated.
Due to their unique anatomy, Frenchies require artificial insemination and C-sections to give birth, which can rack up thousands of dollars in vet bills. Did you know it costs an average of $7,000 to breed a Frenchie? So, while you don’t want to overpay for your new pup, don’t skimp on quality. A good breeder is worth the investment.
Is Merle French Bulldog Right For You?
Are you thinking of adopting a Merle French Bulldog? These little dogs are perfect for anyone who wants a cute, cuddly, and loyal companion. But before you decide, you should be aware of the potential health problems that come with the Merle coat color.
- Merle French Bulldogs are prone to several health issues, including eye problems, deafness, and skin issues. So, if you’re considering adopting one, you must be prepared to care for their unique health needs.
- On the other hand, if you’re up for the challenge, a Merle French Bulldog can make a fantastic addition to your family. These dogs are loyal, loving, and incredibly smart. They’ll quickly become your constant companion and a source of endless joy and laughter.
So, if you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality, the Merle French Bulldog might be right for you! Just educate yourself on their health needs and make an informed decision.
List of dogs that are similar to Merle French Bulldog
- Blue Merle French Bulldog
- Cream French Bulldog
- Fawn French Bulldog
- Isabella French Bulldog
- Piebald French Bulldog
- White French Bulldog
- Sable French Bulldog
- Mini French Bulldog
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I breed Merle to Merle French Bulldog?
No. Breeding two Merle French Bulldog parents can have disastrous consequences for the litter of puppies. It increases the risk of health problems such as hearing and vision loss, skin and coat issues, and other congenital disabilities.
This is because the Merle gene is dominant, which means that breeding two Merle Frenchies increases the likelihood of the gene being passed on to the puppies. When two copies of the gene are present, it can cause serious health issues for the offspring.
It’s best to avoid breeding Merle to Merle French Bulldogs altogether to ensure the puppies are healthy and genetic disorders-free.
2.Are Merle Frenchies rare?
Yes, they’re considered one of the rarest colors in the French Bulldog world.
But wait, there’s more! Blue Frenchie, Blue Fawn Frenchie, and Platinum Frenchies are also part of the exclusive rare color club.
3. Are AKC-recognized Merle French Bulldogs?
Unfortunately, Merle French Bulldogs are not one of the sanctioned hues recognized by the AKC, and as such, they are ineligible for AKC registration or participation in any AKC dog shows.
4. Are Merle French Bulldogs purebred?
No, Merle French Bulldogs are not considered purebred because the Merle gene is not naturally found in the French Bulldog breed.
To produce a Merle Frenchie, breeders must crossbreed with another species that carry the Merle gene, such as a Chihuahua or a Dachshund.
However, this practice is controversial and not recognized by the AKC. Therefore, if you want a purebred French Bulldog, it will not be a Merle color.
5. Are Merle French Bulldogs unhealthy?
While some Merle Frenchies might be prone to specific congenital issues, not all are unhealthy. Many Merle French Bulldogs are healthy and as happy and lively as any other Frenchie!
6. What makes a Merle French Bulldog?
The quirky Merle French Bulldog’s coat color is a product of the Merle gene, which is semi-dominant, allowing the Frenchie to inherit this gene as long as one of its parents carries it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Merle French Bulldog is a unique and visually stunning breed that has captured the hearts of many dog lovers. While their striking appearance is undoubtedly a draw, knowing the potential health risks associated with breeding for the Merle gene is essential.
Responsible breeding practices and proper care can help mitigate these risks while ensuring that these dogs continue to bring joy and companionship to their owners. Overall, the Merle French Bulldog is a beautiful addition to any family willing to provide the love, attention, and care they deserve.