The Merle French Bulldog first appeared in the late 19th century in France when breeders began to experiment with color variations of the famous Frenchie. They achieved this by crossing two different colored dogs, one solid colored and one merle. The resulting puppies were known as “Merles” due to their unique coloring. Over time, these dogs became increasingly popular among pet owners for their unique appearance.
Merle Frenchies possess the intelligence, agility, and loyalty common among French Bulldogs and have a striking coat pattern that sets them apart from other breeds. Merle Bulldogs are unique in their coloring, giving them a distinct look that makes them stand out from traditional French Bulldogs.
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In this blog post, we will explore what makes Merle French Bulldogs so unique and get ready to learn about the history of this wonderful breed before adding one to your family! Let’s look at this unique breed and what it has to offer.
Merle French Bulldog History and Origins
The Merle gene is a dominant gene that produces a marbled coat pattern. This gene is found in many dog breeds, including the Australian Shepherd and Great Dane. However, it is not a naturally occurring gene in French Bulldogs. The Merle French Bulldog originated from crossbreeding with other breeds that carried the Merle gene.
In the early 20th century, breeders began crossbreeding French Bulldogs with other breeds to introduce new colors and patterns. One of these breeds was the English Bulldog, which carried the Merle gene. Breeders could produce French Bulldogs with the Merle coat pattern through selective breeding.
French Bulldogs originated in France in the late 1800s, and they were bred from small bulldog breeds and were popular with the French working class. In the early 1900s, French Bulldogs were exported to other countries, including the United States, where they became popular with high society.
The Merle pattern in French Bulldogs likely developed through crossbreeding with other breeds, such as the Chihuahua or the Dachshund. The first Merle French Bulldog was registered with the American Kennel Club in 2010, but the pattern had been present in the breed for many years before that.
Merle French Bulldog Features
| Height | 27 cm – 34 cm |
| Weight | 17 lbs. – 28 lbs. |
| Lifespan | 10 – 14 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, Gentle & Playful |
| Shedding | Normal |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting |
| Colors | Tan, Blue, Black, White, Silver, Chocolate |
| Other | Easy to train, Loyal, Unique Color Patterns |
What Does Merle French Bulldog Look Like?
Merle French Bulldog Size & Life Span
They are small but muscular dogs with short legs, rounded heads, and bat ears. The average height of Merle Frenchies is 27 cm to 34 cm (11 in – 13 in).
Usually, this breed weighs 17 lbs. to 28 lbs. Merle French Bulldogs’ lifespan is 10 to 14 years. They are arguably one of the cutest breeds and make excellent companions for any family!
Merle French Bulldog Coat and Color
Its coat pattern is the most apparent difference between a standard French Bulldog and a Merle. Unlike traditional Frenchie coats, which are usually solid colored or brindle, merles come in various colors ranging from silver to blue to chocolate brown. This is due to their genes; when two merles are bred together, they produce puppies with even more exotic patterns, such as tricolor or sable merles!
One of the most common coat colors is black with white patches or silver with tan patches. Other standard coat colors include blue, lilac, chocolate, and red. There are also rarer coat varieties, such as clown (black with white patches) or reverse brindle (tan with black patches). Each dog’s coat is truly one of a kind!
Merle French Bulldog Facial Features
Another defining feature of the Merle French Bulldog is its facial structure. They have short, flat faces, round eyes, and sharp ears that flop down.
Merle Bulldogs have beautiful eyes that range from green to blue or even yellow!
This unique combination gives them an instantly recognizable look, making them the centre of attention wherever they go.
This breed is also exceptionally social, so if you have another pet at home, they could become good friends quickly!
Merle French Bulldog Temperament
When it comes to temperament, they are like any other French Bulldog loyal companions who love being around people and thrive on attention and affection!
The Merle French Bulldog is an intelligent, friendly, affectionate pup who loves to be around people but can also entertain itself when alone. This breed is also exceptionally social, so if you have another pet at home, they could become good friends quickly!
Merles are smart pups that pick up on things quickly. These intelligent pups will understand what you want from them quickly, making training enjoyable for both parties involved. It’s also relatively easy to train because of its intelligence and willingness to please its owner.
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Merles have average energy levels but need regular exercise opportunities to stay healthy and happy. A brisk daily walk would do wonders for mental stimulation and physical activity needs. If your pup isn’t getting enough exercise or mental stimulation, it may become restless or destructive out of boredom.
Merles also tend to be quite vocal and bark whenever something catches their attention which can be both good (alerting you to danger) and alarming (making them noisy). You’ll want to train your pup early to prevent barking issues and ensure they’re properly socialized.
Check out this video for amazing training tips for Merle French Bulldogs:
Merle French Bulldogs are also known for being incredibly loyal and protective of their families, and they make excellent watchdogs! Merle Frenchie is usually friendly and easygoing and loves cuddling and snuggling with their owners but can be wary of strangers due to their heritage as guard dogs. With their friendly nature, you can count on your pup being there for you no matter what life throws your way!
Merle French Bulldog Health Problem & Care
Health
Like all dogs, some health issues are associated with a Merle French Bulldog.
- Deafness
- Allergies
- Eye Problems
- Hip Dysplasia
- Respiratory Disorders
- Anxiety / Fearfulness
- Heart Disease
Due to their unique genetics, French Bulldog merles are more prone to specific health concerns than other breeds. You must take any potential health issues seriously and watch for signs of discomfort or distress in your pet.
If you see anything that worries you, take them to their vet immediately for an examination. As with any pet, regular vet visits are essential to detect any health issues before they become severe.
Care
A Merle French Bulldog require extra care due to their unique genetics. These dogs need lots of love, attention, regular exercise, and grooming. If you are lucky enough to have one of these delightful pups, you should ensure they get proper training, nutrition, and regular vet check-ups.
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To ensure your Merle French Bulldog stays healthy and happy, it’s important to prioritize healthy food choices, proper hygiene, and mental stimulation through toys or games. Start with a good regimen of brushing to remove excess hair and help distribute natural oils over their coat. Remember regular dental care, too, as these breeds can be prone to periodontal disease.
Proper care and affection will ensure the health of Merle French Bulldog, and it will entertain you for years to come!
Merle French Bulldog Grooming
Does Merle French Bulldog Shed?
The short answer is yes, Merle French Bulldogs do shed. However, the amount of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s genetics, age, diet, and overall health. Some Merle French Bulldogs may shed more than others, while others may hardly.
Merle French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that is relatively easy to maintain, and they do not require frequent grooming like some other breeds. However, they shed regularly, so you must brush your dog regularly to keep their coat looking healthy and reduce shedding.
Brushing
Brushing is the foundation of good grooming for your Merle French Bulldog. Your dog’s coat will remain shiny, healthy, and mat-free by brushing regularly. It is also an excellent way to bond with your pet and watch for skin or coat problems. Follow these basic steps for effective brushing:
Use a slicker or rubber curry brush to gently remove any loose fur, dirt, or debris from your dog’s coat. Brush toward hair growth, starting at the head and working your way down to the tail. Be gentle and avoid brushing too hard, which can damage the coat and cause discomfort to your furry friend.
Pay extra attention to the ears, paws, and tail, as these areas are more prone to tangles and mats. If you encounter any mats or tangles, gently remove them with a de-matting tool or scissors.
Bathing
It would be best to bathe your Merle French Bulldog every 4-6 weeks, depending on how active and often they get dirty.
When bathing them, use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs so that their coat does not become too dry or irritated from harsh chemicals or fragrances. Ensure you rinse your pup thoroughly after each bath so that no shampoo residue remains on his coat.
Trimming Nails & Ear Cleaning
Trimming your Merle French Bulldog’s nails regularly, usually, every two weeks, is essential to avoid pain, discomfort, and overgrown nails that can break easily. When trimming nails, make sure you only cut off small pieces at a time until the desired length is achieved. Don’t try to cut off too much all at once, as this could cause bleeding or discomfort for your pup.
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In addition to trimming their nails, you must regularly check and clean their paws! Dirt and debris can accumulate between their toes, leading to irritation or infection if not taken care of immediately.
Regularly checking between their toes allows you to spot any potential issues early on before they become serious problems down the road.
What Does Merle French Bulldog Eat?
The first step in setting up a diet plan for your Merle French Bulldog is choosing the right dog food. While generic dog foods may seem economical, they often lack the essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that dogs need. It’s important to provide them with high-quality food. Look for a food with real meat as its first ingredient and fruits, vegetables, and other natural ingredients.
Specifically, tailored foods are available designed to meet Merle French Bulldogs’ nutritional needs. These diets usually include higher protein content and fewer fillers than generic brands, making them more beneficial for your pup’s health.
It’s also important to remember that treats are essential to your pup’s diet! Any treats you give should be in moderation (no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake). It can help reinforce positive behaviors during training sessions or show your pup, extra love when they deserve it! Just make sure any treats you give are specifically designed for dogs. No human snacks!
How Much Should You Feed a Merle French Bulldog?
In addition to providing quality nutrition, it’s also important to practice portion control when feeding your pup. Overfeeding can lead to obesity which can then cause joint issues or other health problems down the line. To ensure proper portion sizes, use a measuring cup or weigh each meal before feeding it to your dog.
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As puppies, they should be fed thrice daily until their first birthday. After that, twice daily feedings are sufficient. It can be helpful to use an automatic pet feeder so you can ensure your pup is getting the right amount of food at the same time each day. The amount of food you give will depend on their age and size.
Is a Merle French Bulldog Right for You?
If you’re looking for a loyal, affectionate, and adaptable companion, a Merle French Bulldog could be the right choice. While merle French Bulldogs is a charming and playful breed.
Consider your lifestyle, available time, and resources before adopting any dog. Always research reputable breeders and ensure you provide your new furry friend with a safe and healthy environment.
Pros and Cons of Merle French Bulldog
If you’re considering getting a Merle French Bulldog, here are some pros and cons.
| Pros | Cons |
| Smart & Playful | Expensive |
| Loves to Cuddle | Health Issues |
| Easy to Groom | Noisy |
| Social | Stubborn |
| Unique | Regular Exercise & Outings |
Merle French Bulldog Price
Merle French Bulldogs are a type of designer dog. These dogs have the same fun personalities as other French Bulldogs, but their unique coats make them stand out. But if you’re considering buying one of these adorable pups, you may be curious about the price.
Unsurprisingly they have a higher price tag than traditional French Bulldogs. You can usually expect to spend between $1500 to $10,000.
The cost of a Merle French Bulldog can vary greatly depending on several factors. First and foremost, the breeder you choose plays a significant role in determining how much your pup will cost. Reputable breeders often charge more than backyard breeders because they ensure all puppies have been raised ethically and have regular health exams. Additionally, reputable breeders tend to have better-quality pups than other sources.
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Additional Expenses
Merle French Bulldogs also require specialized veterinary care, as not all veterinarians have experience with this breed and its unique health concerns. Therefore, it’s essential to find a veterinarian that has experience with Merle French Bulldogs. In addition, they may require more frequent veterinary care as they age.
Training and socialization are also crucial for Merle French Bulldogs. Training and socialization classes can be costly, but they are necessary to ensure your Merle French Bulldog is well-behaved and obedient.
Grooming is another area where additional expenses can arise. However, they require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care. They may also require bathing more frequently than other breeds due to their skin’s sensitivity.
Finally, high-quality food and supplements are required to maintain the health of Merle French Bulldogs. Feeding them a diet specifically formulated for their breed’s nutritional needs is essential. They may also require supplements to support their joint and digestive health.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can usually expect to spend between $1500 to $10,000 depending on factors like Coat Color, Health, Breeder’s Reputation, etc.
Merle French Bulldogs have some health issues. Due to unique genetics, these dogs can have Deafness, Eye Problems, Hip Dysplasia, Respiratory Disorders, and Heart Disease.
Merle is a genetic pattern in a dog’s coat. Also known as dapple, merle is distinguished by irregular patches of fur set on a lighter background of the same pigment.
They are expensive to breed and extremely high in demand. AKC’s most popular dog breed list ranks at #2. Frenchies are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world right now!
Final Thoughts
The Merle French Bulldog is genuinely one of a kind! Merle French Bulldogs are a unique breed with striking coats that set them apart from traditional Frenchies. Its rare coat combination, vibrant personality, and intelligence make it an ideal pup for anyone looking for something special in their lives!
If you are thinking about getting a Merle French Bulldog, make sure to do your research first. Some potential health issues come with this dog breed, so it is essential to be informed before deciding. Merle French Bulldogs are loving and loyal companions. So, if you’re up for the challenge, why not give a Merle French Bulldog a chance? You won’t regret it!
Meet Jane Smith, a passionate animal lover and author deeply connected to the natural world. Growing up on a farm and spent much of her childhood exploring the fields and forests surrounding her home.
As an adult, Jane decided to pursue her love of animals more formally, earning a degree in biology from a top university and working as a wildlife researcher for several years. Eventually, Jane decided to share her love of animals with the world through writing.
In addition to her writing career, Jane is also an avid conservationist, working to protect endangered species and promote sustainable practices. When she’s not writing or advocating for animals, Jane can be found hiking in the mountains or spending time with her furry friends at home.