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What is a Merle French Bulldog?
A merle French bulldog is distinguished by its own pattern of color on the light background color mottling patches.
Its unique look incorporates patches which may be blue, black, chocolate, or lilac over a cream or light grey background. The pattern produces a marbling effect, and this makes each merle Frenchie more of a unique kind.
The merle gene that interferes with the normal pigmentation gives the French bulldog merle its dramatic appearance. The same gene usually makes these dogs have beautiful blue eyes that could last their lives. The blue color on one eye is sometimes retained, and this is known as heterochromia.
Merle French Bulldog Color Variations
Blue Merle French Bulldog
One of the most popular ones is the blue merle French bulldog. They are grey and are bluish on a light cream or grey background. The blue patches have a shade of light silver to almost black color, and it looks beautiful.
Lilac Merle French Bulldog
French bulldogs lilac merle are very rare. They are ashy or silver colored on their light coat. In order to give this color, the parents need to possess the genes of blue, chocolate, and merle. In some cases, these dogs possess eyes that are light colored and are reddish gleaming.
Black Merle French Bulldog
The Frenchies are black merles that are colored with black mottles in most parts of their body. Their ground color is a shade darker than other forms of merle, and this varies from light grey to light brown.
Chocolate Merle French Bulldog
Chocolate merle French bullies are dark brown spots which are mottled in every part of their light colored bodies. Their special genes render them very rare.
Isabella Merle French Bulldog
The Isabella merle is said to be the most rare. Such variation incorporates blue and chocolate against a grey shade of champagne. They are very rare, and the price of such dogs is the most expensive.
Merle French Bulldog Price Guide
What is the Price of a Merle French Bulldog?
The price of merle French bulldog is very different depending on the color variation and uncommonness. The average merle French bulldog puppies cost between the following prices:
- Standard Merle Variations: $4,500 – $6,500
- Blue Merle: $5,000 – $8,000
- Lilac Merle: $5,500 – $7,500
- Chocolate Merle: $4,500 – $7,000
- Isabella Merle: $7,000 – $15,000
The Determinants of Merle French Bulldog Prices
The price of the merle French bulldog depends on several factors:
Color Rarity: Colors that are uncommon such as Isabella and lilac have higher prices since they are very rare.
Blue Eyes: Permanent blue eyes add much value since it is a trait that is in demand and rare.
Breeder Reputation: Healthy breeders who perform health tests are more expensive, but it gives healthier puppies.
Location: Prices are normally higher in the large cities where the demand is higher than the supply.
Gender: Frenchies of the female gender usually sell at a higher price of between $500 and $1,000 because of their breeding potential.
Buying Merle French Bulldogs
Be very careful when seeking to buy merle French bulldogs. The breeding practice has become unethical due to the high demand. To find these marks of an honest breeder:
- Gives parent dog health records fully
- Genetic testing is carried out prior to breeding
- Will never breed two merle dogs
- Offers health guarantees
- Gives you an opportunity to see the parents of the puppy
- Grooms dogs in residential settings
Any merle French bulldog that is being sold at a price that is way below the mark of $4,000, then this is a warning. Unscrupulous breeders tend to short-cut health testing and proper care, which causes severe health issues in the future.
Merle French Bulldog Health Concerns
Common Health Issues
Merle French bulldogs have certain health issues provided by the merle gene:
Eye Defects: The merle gene may result in eye defects such as abnormal shapes of the pupil and eye retardation. Partial or complete blindness may be developed in some merle Frenchies.
Hearing Impairment: Merles of dogs are more prone to deafness. Research indicates that merle dogs have a 0.9 percent probability of having deafness in both ears and 2.7 percent in one ear.
The Double Merle Problem
When two merle French bulldogs are bred, they give rise to two copies of the merle gene, which form double merle puppies. These dogs are at serious risk of health:
- Deafness and blindness are very high
- Deformities on the eyes or lack of eyes
- Immune system disorders
- Higher mortality rates
The ethical breeders do not breed two merle at once. To evade these debilitating health problems, they breed a merle with a solid colored Frenchie.
Caring for Your Merle French Bulldog Puppy
Exercise Requirements
Merle French bulldog puppies require moderate exercises per day. A 20-30-minute walk or two walks will be enough. It is advisable not to engage in intense exercise in hot weather because of difficulties in breathing.
Grooming Needs
What with their short coats, Frenchies of the merle breed are as much in need of attention as any other:
- Brush on a weekly basis to avoid matting
- Wash wrinkles on face every day to avoid infections
- Take a monthly bath in mild dog shampoo
- Trim nails every 3-4 weeks
- Wash ears once every week to avoid infection
Nutrition
Give quality dog food with at least 25% of protein. The amount of portion consumed varies with age and weight. Close weight watch because the French bulldogs have a tendency to be obese.
Sun Protection
Merle Frenchies require additional sun protection because of their weak pigmentation. Use dog-safe sunscreen on bare parts and keep him in the shade when outside.
Temperament and Personality
Merle French bulldogs are also as lovable as normal Frenchies. They are:
- Devoted and loving friends
- Playful and entertaining
- Much affectionate to children and pets
- Flexible towards apartment life
- Prone to separation anxiety
These dogs also live on the companionship of people, and they are not good when left unattended. They are good family pets provided their owners have a lot of time to give them.
Final Thoughts
The merle French bulldog is undeniably beautiful and unique. Their striking appearance and charming personality make them highly desirable. However, potential owners must understand the serious commitment involved.
These dogs require significant financial investment, not just for the initial merle French bulldog puppy purchase price but for ongoing veterinary care. The health issues associated with the merle gene mean you should only purchase from reputable breeders who prioritize health over appearance.
Merle French Bulldog Frequently Asked Questions
Are French Bulldogs of the Merle Breed Purebred?
Merle French bulldogs are not purebred, no. Merle gene is not innate to French bulldogs, and thus it was brought on board in crossbreeding with other breeds such as Chihuahuas. That is why AKC does not consider merle as an official color.
What is Merle French Bulldog Price?
Merle French bulldogs price can vary between $4,500 and $15,000 in response to a change in color, with Isabella merle being the highest priced. Normal merle variations are sold at $4,500 to $6,500, whereas unique colors are sold at a high price.
Do Merle French Bulldogs Have More Health Problems?
Yes, merle French bulldogs face additional health risks beyond standard Frenchie health issues. They’re prone to vision and hearing problems, skin sensitivities, and immune disorders. Double merle puppies have significantly higher rates of serious health defects.
Are Merle French Bulldogs Good Family Pets?
Yes, merle French bulldogs make excellent family pets with proper care. They’re affectionate, playful, and great with children. However, prospective owners must be prepared for potential health issues and higher veterinary costs compared to other breeds.