Top 26 Old English Bulldog Merle 24674 People Liked This Answer

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How much is a merle English bulldog worth?

The average price of an English Bulldog is $2,500… but some colors can be even pricier!
…
English Bulldog Price Chart By Color.

Color	Price	Recognized by AKC?
Merle	$4,500-$10,000	No

14 thg 12, 2021

What is merle English bulldog?

1. A merle English bulldog is exactly like any other English bulldog, just a different color. They’re genetically identical and can be born into litters full of non-merle bulldogs, which we’ll refer to as “classic bulldogs.” They are not a different breed and they exist as a small subcategory of coloring.

Do all merle English Bulldogs have blue eyes?

Due to their merle gene, these dogs will almost always have blue eyes.

How long do merle English Bulldogs live?

Generally speaking, English Bulldogs tend to not live as long as other breeds — the average Bulldog lifespan is just eight years, while the average lifespan for other dogs is 13 years. But why? Sadly, human breeding practices are the main culprit.

Can merle bulldogs 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.

Why can you not breed merle to merle?

If two merle dogs are bred together, each puppy in the litter has a 25% chance of being born a double merle. A double merle inherits the merle gene twice. One copy of the merle gene causes a marbling effect on the coat and creates lighter spots throughout the solid color coat.

Are merle bulldogs more expensive?

For example, a sable merle English Bulldog is the cheapest one, ranging from $4,500 to $5,500, followed by black, blue, chocolate, and lilac tri merles for $7,000 to $10,000 (black and blue tri merles), and $8,000 to $12,000 or $10,000 to $15,000 for choco and lilac tris.

What is a ghost merle?

Dogs with cryptic merle (also called phantom or ghost merle) typically display little to no merle pattern and some may be misclassified as non-merles. The cryptic merle alleles occur in the lower end of the range (typically from 200-255, however, this range and designation varies by study).

How much is a Blue Merle Worth?

What’s the price point you can expect for a merle dog? The quick answer is – somewhere between $800 and $2,000, with an average of $1,300.

How do I know if my dog is merle?

The merle gene modifies the dark pigment in the eyes, occasionally changing dark eyes to blue, or part of the eye to be colored blue. Since merle causes random modifications, however, both dark-eyed, blue-eyed, and odd-colored eyes are possible. Pigmentation on paw pads and nose may be mottled by pink.

What’s the best color for English Bulldog?

Fawn or Fallow English Bulldog

Seen as a color in clothing and furnishings, fawn is also a popular color for dogs, including the English Bulldog. This light tannish yellow color has many different shades, ranging from a pale tan to a deep deer-red.

Do merle dogs have papers?

The Kennel Club has announced that it will no longer accept registration applications for merle-coloured dogs in breeds where there is no documented evidence of the colour having been well established over a sustained period.

Are English Bulldogs aggressive?

English Bulldogs are not aggressive to humans. These bulldogs are people-friendly and love human attention. If trained and socialized early, they’re less likely to get confrontational. However, English Bulldogs may act ferociously if they feel threatened or act distant towards strangers.

Do English Bulldogs bark a lot?

Though they don’t bark much, English Bulldogs are far from silent. Because of their deformed face, they go through life snorting, snuffling, wheezing, grunting, and snoring loudly. Some people find these sounds nerve-wracking; others find them endearing.

Are English Bulldogs jealous?

Jealousy is a closely related issue. Bulldogs will fight over human attention, food and toys, so its important to watch multiple bulldogs carefully in situations where this is a potential issue.

How much is a Blue Merle Worth?

What’s the price point you can expect for a merle dog? The quick answer is – somewhere between $800 and $2,000, with an average of $1,300.

Can you breed two merle English Bulldogs?

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to breed two merle English Bulldogs. But, that doesn’t mean these dogs should be bred together. If you breed two merles, their puppies will also be merle dogs. This means you’re intentionally bringing dogs with a huge predisposition to genetic problems into the world.

How much is a merle bully?

Despite this, Merle American Bully can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 or more. This is because they are quite rare, although even then, you run the risk of your American Bully not actually being a purebred dog.

What does merle mean in dogs?

Merle is a pattern in a dog’s coat, though is commonly incorrectly referred to as a colour. The merle gene creates mottled patches of color in a solid or piebald coat, blue or odd-colored eyes, and can affect skin pigment as well.

Amazing Merle Olde English Bulldog – \”Big Shot\” Our Extreme Exotic Bulldog #vbk

9 Things You Should Know Before Buying/Adopting A Merle English Bulldog – Ned Hardy

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Table of Contents:

1 A merle English bulldog is exactly like any other English bulldog just a different color

2 Merle effects the pigmentation of the skin and eyes as well

3 A merle English bulldog can be born to any English bulldog even classic ones as long as the gene is present in one or both of the parents

4 There are different types of merle Original basic by-the-book merle is as we mentioned an unevenly freckled coat in three or more colors

5 Double merle dogs (MM) are a dilemma

6 Merle English Bulldogs are pretty rare

7 Merle dogs of all breeds are highly likely to have eye and ear deformities

8 There are definite breeding concerns with merle English bulldogs

9 Anyone who breeds bulldogs with the intention of producing merle puppies should be very vigilant of their parent dogs’ genetics

Other Merle Breeds You Might Be Interested In

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Table of Contents:

What Is a Merle English Bulldog What Does “Merle” Mean in English Bulldogs

Are Merle English Bulldogs Rare

Merle English Bulldog Appearance What Does a Merle English Bulldog Look Like

Merle English Bulldog Size and Weight How Big Will a Merle Bulldog Get When Fully Grown

Merle English Bulldog Coat Color Genetics What Causes Bulldogs to Have Merle Coats

Merle English Bulldog Kennel Club Recognition Can Merle Bulldogs Be AKC Registered

Merle English Bulldog Temperament and Personality Are Merle Bulldogs Good Family Dogs

Merle English Bulldog Lifespan and Health Issues Are Merle Bulldogs Healthy Dogs

Merle English Bulldog Puppy Prices and Expenses How Much Does a Merle Bulldog Cost

Places to Find Merle English Bulldog Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts Should You Get a Merle English Bulldog

Merle English Bulldog: The Uniquely Coated Bully You'll Love — Merle English Bulldog: The Uniquely Coated Bully You’ll Love

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Table of Contents:

1 A merle English bulldog is exactly like any other English bulldog just a different color

2 Merle effects the pigmentation of the skin and eyes as well

3 A merle English bulldog can be born to any English bulldog even classic ones as long as the gene is present in one or both of the parents

4 There are different types of merle Original basic by-the-book merle is as we mentioned an unevenly freckled coat in three or more colors

5 Double merle dogs (MM) are a dilemma

6 Merle English Bulldogs are pretty rare

7 Merle dogs of all breeds are highly likely to have eye and ear deformities

8 There are definite breeding concerns with merle English bulldogs

9 Anyone who breeds bulldogs with the intention of producing merle puppies should be very vigilant of their parent dogs’ genetics

Other Merle Breeds You Might Be Interested In

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Blue merle ( Olde English Bulldogge ) male | Bulldog puppies, Olde english bulldogge, Crazy dog

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9 Things You Should Know Before Buying/Adopting A Merle English Bulldog

(photo: californiastatebulldogs)

Though there are several variations of the bulldog (American, French, Continental), the most iconic is the English bulldog. Used time and time again as a mascot for sports teams, universities, and even the military, this stout symbol is best known for its smooth, creamy coat. Did you know it doesn’t only come in white and tan? The merle bulldog boasts a wild fur pattern outside the normal expectations of this popular breed.

1. A merle English bulldog is exactly like any other English bulldog, just a different color.

They’re genetically identical and can be born into litters full of non-merle bulldogs, which we’ll refer to as “classic bulldogs.” They are not a different breed and they exist as a small subcategory of coloring. Their behavior, temperament, and exercise needs are all the same as classic bulldogs.

Merle English bulldogs look like a Jackson Pollock painting. Okay, maybe not that colorful. They do have a very distinct, speckled coat that features various colors (usually more than three) in an uneven pattern, like sprinkled Dalmatians or cookies and cream icecream. Adorable and unusual, especially given a classic bulldog’s relatively simple coat.

Merle can present itself in a variety of colors. On bulldogs it’s usually a white base with gray and darker gray markings called “blue merle” … even though it’s gray. Sometimes there can be patches of tan, even black.

2. Merle effects the pigmentation of the skin and eyes as well.

Merle dogs will almost always have blue eyes, but can also have the David Bowie look and have one of each color. The skin on their nose pads are light pink or mottled black and pink, while classic bulldogs always have plain black.

Unfortunately, this pretty pattern is not recognized by the AKC. The bulldog has one of the oldest Standards; it hasn’t been changed once since 1890!

That seems to be why judges are averse to accepting alternate coat colors. On their Breed Standard for the bulldog, the AKC distinctly notes that “[t]he merle pattern is a disqualification.” It seems a bit unfair, since there are some breeds for which they accept merles.

Merle is a genetic mutation that effects the pigmentation of a dog’s skin, fur, and eyes. It’s a purely physical mutation, so that while it may come with its own specific health defects, it doesn’t make a merle bulldog any different from a classic one mentally.

3. A merle English bulldog can be born to any English bulldog, even classic ones, as long as the gene is present in one or both of the parents.

The best way to know if a bulldog carries the gene is by genetic testing. A vet takes some samples that are sent off to a lab that analyzes a dog’s genetic makeup. Knowing if a dog carries the merle gene is important to breeders.

4. There are different types of merle. Original, basic, by-the-book merle is as we mentioned: an unevenly freckled coat in three or more colors.

A dilute merle is one with no dark patches on its coat – no black fur or noses. It’s essentially a blue merle, just without any dark gray.

Cryptic merles – also called ghost merles – are dogs who carry the merle gene but do not express it. This means that they can look like your classic, run-of-the-mill bulldog, but have this mutation hidden in their genes. It may not affect them in any way, but it can be passed down through their offspring. That’s why bulldog breeders should have their pups tested.

Merlequins (canine connoisseurs love a portmanteau) are dogs who have patches of merle on their otherwise classic coat. For example, they have white fur that is interrupted by contained speckled patches of black and gray.

5. Double merle dogs (MM) are a dilemma.

A double merle is a dog whose parents both carried the merle gene and inherited a double dose. Double merles are dangerous as they have a greater concentration of the merle gene and are thus are even more likely – in not guaranteed – to suffer from poor health. MM and MM should never be mated together.

Neither should MM and Mm or even Mm and Mm, as all these combinations of the merle gene will produce an ill-fated double merle.\

Double merles can come as a surprise as one parent could be a cryptic merle (mm or mCR). Mated with a visibly merle bulldog (Mm or MM), the odds of their offspring being double merle are pretty high.

The risk comes with mating two classic-looking English bulldogs. If neither show any signs of merle, surely there won’t be any genetic defaults, right? Wrong. The two can carry the merle gene without showing it and pass it on. Because merle is a recessive gene, it’s not likely to show in two non-merles’ (mm) offspring.

Even if their litter doesn’t produce merle puppies, the gene is still passed down and the next litter might. This is why it’s important to know a dog’s genetics before breeding.

(photo: boristheoldenglishbulldog)

6. Merle English Bulldogs are pretty rare.

While there are many dog breeds that are known to carry the gene, each one doesn’t have many merle specimens. One reason for this is because merle is a recessive gene, meaning the odds are stacked against its spreading. Another reason is because of the detrimental side effects that come along with a cool coat.

This mutation isn’t lethal but it can cause severe problems. Merle bulldogs are subject to all the usual health issues any classic bulldog can face – and then some.

7. Merle dogs of all breeds are highly likely to have eye and ear deformities.

Some exhibit deformed pupils, in which the pupil appears in an irregular, starburst shape. Conditions such as microphthalmia (born with one too-small eye) and even anophthalmia (born with no eye) are also possible. Devastatingly, complete blindness and deafness are common, even expected in double merles.

Inconclusive studies have hinted at complications in the cardiac, skeletal, and reproductive systems of merle dogs. Because the gene is so rare, though, there’s not much data to support these claims yet.

As previously stated, double merles are much more prone to these problems. It is unlikely that a double merle will suffer no extra ailments in its lifetime.

8. There are definite breeding concerns with merle English bulldogs.

Prudent breeders will have their dogs genetically tested, especially if they suspect one may be a ghost merle. Sometimes the gene hides away for generations. Because of this, breeding should always be done carefully.

Confirmed merle bulldogs (even just Mm) probably shouldn’t be bred. If they are, leave it to the professionals who have had their dogs genetically tested and know for sure that the merle’s mate does not carry the gene. Double merles should never be bred. The safest bet is to have any merle bulldogs (Mm or MM) spayed and neutered.

Already facing criticism for purebreeding, bulldog breeders risk more for purposefully mating merle bulldogs. Adding the potential merle health issues to a breed with already questionable health is suspicious work.

(photo: cuddleabull)

9. Anyone who breeds bulldogs with the intention of producing merle puppies should be very vigilant of their parent dogs’ genetics.

We’re not saying that breeding for merles is completely reckless. For one, as long as the breeder knows their dogs’ genetics, they can conscientiously cultivate litters that could potentially produce a rare merle puppy. For another, sometimes an innocent lack of information or ignorance means that merle dogs are going to happen.

It could be argued that any breeder who disregards their bulldogs’ genetics and purposefully breeds two known merles together is behaving very irresponsibly, if not inhumanely. They would be putting the future litter at risk. If they then sold those puppies, the future owner would be burdened with the sad responsibility of a bulldog doomed to poor health. Unfair on the owner, but more especially on the dog.

Preference for dog breeds come and go and there’s nothing wrong with that. When fads take over common sense, however, we need to start questioning how breeders take advantage of man’s best friend. Many people will want a merle bulldog for its unique coat and that’s not a crime. The best way to make sure they’re bred sensibly is by doing research into breeders, specifically ones supported by established organizations like the AKC.

Sources:

https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Bulldog.pdf

https://akcconformationjudges.wordpress.com/2016/08/31/judging-the-bulldog/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulldog#Health

Other Merle Breeds You Might Be Interested In:

Merle English Bulldog: The Uniquely Coated Bully You’ll Love

English Bulldogs may be short and stocky, but they can charm you in many ways. Their adorable wrinkled face and unique coat that comes in many colors can instantly win your heart. However, one type of Bulldog truly stands out — Merle English Bulldogs.

Merle Bulldogs are not your typical solid-colored Bully. They have uniquely patterned coats that totally bring out a new look for this famous dog breed. For many owners, it feels as if they have a walking (and barking) painting.

If you want to know exactly what I’m talking about, keep scrolling! You’re in for an informative treat! Let’s get into it!

What Is a Merle English Bulldog? What Does “Merle” Mean in English Bulldogs?

In English Bulldogs, the term “merle” is used to identify Bullies with the merle pattern. Therefore, a merle English Bulldog is not a separate breed but only refers to a Bully having a distinct, speckled coat that comes in various colors. They can also have variations in terms of patching and dilution.

Usually, the merle Bulldog has a white base coat with gray markings called “blue merle.” In some cases, there can also be patches of tan or black.

Most owners describe the merle coat of an English Bulldog as a splotch painting or even a scoop of your favorite cookies and cream ice cream.

In any case, these dogs are a product of their unique gene pool that gives their eccentric but loveable appearance.

Are Merle English Bulldogs Rare?

Merle English Bulldogs are the rarest color variation of the breed. Because they are produced through selective breeding, they are not as common as other Bulldog colors.

Merle is also a result of a recessive gene, so there is a lower probability of passing on this trait to the subsequent offspring.

It just goes to show that if you buy or adopt a merle Bully, you are one of the lucky few who can own this one-of-a-kind dog.

However, regardless of their rare status, there is still a merle Bulldog variety that stands out among others. Those with white bodies and grey speckles/spots are popular among Bulldog enthusiasts.

Merle English Bulldog Appearance: What Does a Merle English Bulldog Look Like?

It’s pretty easy to distinguish a merle Bulldog from other color varieties. Their coat is covered with small gray or dark gray patches, scattered unevenly throughout their body.

Since merle is only a pattern, the dog’s coat is still a combination of a Bulldog’s standard colors such as white, fawn, chocolate, brindle, black, seal, blue, and lilac. These colors can be exhibited as piebald or tri-color.

Another notable feature of merle Bulldogs is their eyes. Due to their merle gene, these dogs will almost always have blue eyes.

In rarer cases, they can also have heterochromia like the famous David Bowie. Compared to regular Bulldogs, their nose has light pink or mottled black and pink skin instead of pure black.

Aside from these differences, a merle English Bulldog will look like your average Bully in terms of build and size.

The head is large while the muzzle is short, giving them a squished look. Their pinchable cheeks are round and always protruding sideways. Contrary to their large head, their ears are small and thin, flopping forward comically.

Their muscular bodies are covered with loose skin and hang heavily, forming thick wrinkles and folds on the face and neck area.

Merle English Bulldogs also have short and stocky legs with good muscle definition. Their thick, stubby tail can either be straight or slightly skewed.

Do you want to know what they look like as puppies? Here is a video of a black tri-colored merle Bulldog to feast your eyes on:

Black Tri Merle Boy English Bulldog 🔥 Merle Bulldog Puppy

Watch this video on YouTube

Merle English Bulldog Size and Weight: How Big Will a Merle Bulldog Get When Fully Grown?

A merle Bulldog will grow up to have the same height and weight as an ordinary English Bulldog. They are considered a medium-sized breed.

Typically, they stand at around 14 to 15 inches tall. Their full-grown weight falls at approximately 50 pounds for males and 40 pounds for females.

At about a year old, a merle English Bulldog will achieve its full height. However, they may continue to gain their adult weight and fill their chest size until two years old.

Putting on extra weight is common for this breed, so it’s best to provide a proper diet as early as puppyhood.

Merle English Bulldog Coat Color Genetics: What Causes Bulldogs to Have Merle Coats?

Color genetics in dogs is quite a fascinating subject. And while it can get technical, it’s worth knowing the explanation for how it affects an English Bulldog’s appearance.

The merle pattern in this breed can only be explained through the existence of the merle gene.

The merle gene produces the diluted speckled patches in a Bulldog’s solid, piebald, or tri-colored coat.

A dog can display the merle pattern with one copy of the dominant merle allele (M) and one recessive merle allele (m). This is often abbreviated as M/m.

This gene is also known only to affect eumelanin or the black pigmentation of the dog’s coat. As a result, even the Bulldog’s nose skin or eye color will be diluted. As mentioned, most merle Bulldogs have pink noses and blue eyes.

It’s also worth noting that even though they carry the same gene, not all merle Bulldogs look the same.

There are different types of merle dogs that have their unique charm and appearances. This occurrence is mainly due to the unstable and variable nature of merle genes in general.

Here are some different variations of the merle English Bulldog:

Dilute Merle English Bulldog

Dilute merle Bulldogs do not have any dark gray patches on their coats. Their coat appears to be a diluted gray color, but they are still distinguishable through their blue eyes.

Cryptic English Merle Bulldog

Some merle English Bulldogs carry the gene but do not exhibit it. This is a result of the recessive red allele or E-locus that prevents the merle gene expression.

These dogs often pass as a regular Bully in appearance, but you may notice very faint patches on some dogs. They are often called cryptic merles, phantom merles, or even ghost merles. As a carrier of the merle gene, they can still pass it to their offspring.

Marlequin English Bulldog

Merle Bulldogs can also exhibit a harlequin coat pattern. This means that a dog will have black and gray speckles on its white coat.

This results from the merle gene (M-locus) interacting with a modifier gene at the H-locus. These dogs are often referred to as Marlequins.

Double Merle English Bulldog

There are cases when a Bulldog carries two copies of the dominant merle gene (M/M). As they are called, double merle dogs have their eumelanin and phaeomelanin affected by two merle genes.

This means that they almost have an all-white coat. Breeding two merle dogs creates a rare and beautiful canine, but it can also result in some health-related issues that I will discuss later on.

Merle English Bulldog Kennel Club Recognition: Can Merle Bulldogs Be AKC Registered?

The merle pattern for the English Bulldog breed is not accepted in the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, so it’s impossible to register your dog with them. Sadly, this means that you can’t sign them up for shows and competitions as well.

The main reason for this is because the merle pattern is not a naturally occurring color in the breed. There are also some controversies regarding health problems associated with dogs carrying this gene.

The United Kennel Club (UKC), another kennel organization in the United States, only allows the registration of piebald English Bulldogs with well-defined patches of a solid color that are symmetrically distributed.

Merle dogs do not pass this requirement because their patches appear unevenly throughout the coat.

Merle English Bulldog Temperament and Personality: Are Merle Bulldogs Good Family Dogs?

A merle English Bulldog will have the same temperament as any other Bulldog. They are sweet and gentle dogs that make wonderful family pets.

You will have no problem introducing them to the household as they also get along quite well with children.

Due to their sociable nature, merle Bulldogs always crave human attention. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are very easy-going and affectionate.

In contrast to their soft side, merle English Bullies display a sense of courage stemming from their bull-baiting history. Since they were initially bred for this purpose, they make excellent watchdogs for the family.

Owners should also be mindful of a merle Bulldog’s stubborn streak that can be a problem during training.

Early socialization and housebreaking are recommended for them to easily adjust to a home environment. If self-training becomes too challenging, enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is always an option.

Merle English Bulldog Lifespan and Health Issues: Are Merle Bulldogs Healthy Dogs?

The lifespan of a merle English Bulldog is around 10 to 12 years, similar to other English Bulldog colors. However, one of the main drawbacks of owning them is the increased risk of inheriting several health conditions.

Here’s a list of the common health issues that target merle English Bulldogs:

Microphthalmia: This congenital eye condition is characterized by having one eye smaller than the other. Microphthalmia is generally caused by the abnormal development of the internal eye structure. Affected dogs usually have impaired vision that may lead to complete blindness.

This congenital eye condition is characterized by having one eye smaller than the other. Microphthalmia is generally caused by the abnormal development of the internal eye structure. Affected dogs usually have impaired vision that may lead to complete blindness. Anophthalmia: This is a very rare eye disorder wherein a dog is born without an eye or both eyes. Like microphthalmia, anophthalmia is a result of an eye anomaly during embryonic development. Merle Bulldogs with this condition will need lifetime support from their owners to adjust to their environment.

This is a very rare eye disorder wherein a dog is born without an eye or both eyes. Like microphthalmia, anophthalmia is a result of an eye anomaly during embryonic development. Merle Bulldogs with this condition will need lifetime support from their owners to adjust to their environment. Coloboma: When an area of a merle dog’s eye tissue fails to develop, it can result in an eye defect called coloboma. It is usually identified by a cleft of the iris at the edge of the pupil. While it can have minimal effect on your dog’s vision, it can cause discomfort when facing any direct light source.

When an area of a merle dog’s eye tissue fails to develop, it can result in an eye defect called coloboma. It is usually identified by a cleft of the iris at the edge of the pupil. While it can have minimal effect on your dog’s vision, it can cause discomfort when facing any direct light source. Deafness: Another impairment common to double merle Bulldogs is deafness. It is often associated with the degeneration of sensory nerve cells in the eyes due to the absence of melanocytes. While some are born without any sense of hearing, other double merles may gradually develop deafness in later life.

Another impairment common to double merle Bulldogs is deafness. It is often associated with the degeneration of sensory nerve cells in the eyes due to the absence of melanocytes. While some are born without any sense of hearing, other double merles may gradually develop deafness in later life. Skin Cancer: The rate of skin cancer cases is higher in dogs with the double merle gene. Due to their lack of pigment, their skin becomes a lot more sensitive to the sun. The areas with pink skin, such as the nose and eye rims, are more susceptible to sunburn and, eventually, skin cancer.

Recent findings show that merle English Bulldogs are also prone to have complications in the heart, bones, and reproductive system. However, these claims remain to be inconclusive.

Merle English Bulldog Puppy Prices and Expenses: How Much Does a Merle Bulldog Cost?

The average cost of a merle English Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder can fall anywhere between $4,500 and $15,000.

The final price mainly depends on the dog’s coat color and can even go above $15,000 depending on the breeder’s reputation.

For a comparison of puppy prices for different types of merle Bulldogs, refer to the table below:

Merle Bulldog Color Price Range Sable Merle $4,500 – $5,500 Fawn Merle $5,500 – $6,500 Black Tri Merle $7,000 – $10,000 Blue Tri Merle $7,000 – $10,000 Chocolate Tri Merle $8000 – $12,000 Lilac Tri Merle $10,000 – $15,000 White or Platinum Lilac Merle $15,000 and above

Other than the puppy price, there are other expenses you need to squeeze into your budget to make sure they can settle in their new home seamlessly.

If you want to find out the ongoing expenses and yearly cost of owning a merle Bulldog, check out this article.

Places to Find Merle English Bulldog Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Despite their rarity, merle English Bulldog puppies are not hard to acquire. Several dog breeders and rescue organizations can help you take home a healthy and well-tempered pup.

To avoid money-grabbing backyard breeders or internet scams, I’ve compiled some trusted sources for you. These breeders and rescues had their dogs undergo genetic testing so they are sure to be healthy and agile.

The breeders listed below can direct you to the top merle English Bulldog puppies:

Planet Merle – This small breeder located in Oklahoma has been in the business of breeding merle puppies for a few years now. All of their litter is raised at home with the owner and his family so you won’t have any problem with socialization. They also came from top-quality bloodlines, ensuring good health and temperament.

JB Bullies – As a breeder of merle English Bulldogs for 15 years, you can trust JB Bullies to provide you with the best pup you could ever have. Prince Klauz, the owner’s stud, produces blue tricolored, black tricolored, and chocolate tri-colored merle puppies.

Rare Bulldogs – Since 1972, this breeder has been producing rare-colored Bulldogs, including lilac, blue, and chocolate with and without the merle pattern. You can choose to buy from any available litter with full breeding rights/pedigree or as a pet. They are conveniently located in Pensacola, Florida.

Sandov’s English Bulldog – This is another AKC-registered breeder that produces lovely merle Bulldog companions. Their pups come from champion bloodlines, so you are assured that they are in the best health condition when taken home.

For more options, you can check out our top picks for English Bulldog breeders that also produce merle puppies.

Getting a merle is not a cheap endeavor. Luckily, you can own one by adopting from a rescue. The adoption fees are much lower, and you also get a healthy and beautiful dog.

The rescue centers below can help you find the merle Bulldog you’ve always dreamed of:

Bulldog Rescue Network – This rescue is a nationwide network of volunteers dedicated to saving the English Bulldog breed. Each year, they are able to rehome around 2,000 Bullies. You can visit their website to find out if they have any merle dogs available for adoption.

Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue – Operating since 1948, this Dallas-based rescue is a licensed club sanctioned by AKC to rescue and rehabilitate English Bulldogs, including the rare merle Bullies. They mostly accommodate applicants living in the Northern Texas area.

Georgia English Bulldog Rescue – This is a foster-based rescue located in Georgia that was founded in 2009. They maintain approximately 30 to 40 dogs in foster care until they find new owners. Placements are made after a two-week foster period.

If you want a rescue closer to your location, you can refer to our list of English Bulldog rescues. You can easily reach out to them through the contact details provided for each organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Merle Natural in Bulldogs?

Merle is not a naturally occurring gene in the Bulldog breed. They are originally bred from crossbreeding a dog carrying the merle gene and a purebred English Bulldog.

This is the main reason why several eye abnormalities and hearing ailments are detected in some merle Bulldogs.

Can You Breed a Merle Bulldog to Another Merle Bulldog?

Technically, yes. Breeding two merle dogs is possible. However, this pairing yields a puppy carrying two copies of the merle gene.

As mentioned, double merle puppies are more prone to several congenital disabilities discussed in this article. Thus, mating two merle dogs are highly frowned upon.

How to Know If Your Dog Is a Merle Bulldog?

The merle pattern can easily be detected in an English Bulldog through visual inspection.

If you see specks of gray or dark gray uneven spots on your dog’s body, then you have a merle Bulldog. They also have blue eyes and pink skin on their nose and around their eyes.

Those with hidden merle genes can be harder to distinguish. You can identify them with their blue eyes or by confirming directly with your breeder.

How Much Is a Blue Merle English Bulldog?

A blue merle English Bulldog or a blue tri-colored merle is priced between $7,000 and $10,000. They share the same price with black tri-colored merle Bulldogs. Both are more common than lilac merles.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Merle English Bulldog?

Merle English Bulldogs are exceptional canines due to their appearance. But the big question on whether you should get one as a pet or not depends on a huge factor — their health.

Because they carry the recessive merle gene, merle Bulldogs are predisposed to congenital disabilities that mainly affect their vision and hearing.

If you plan on getting a merle pup, make sure to refrain from getting a double merle Bully. These dogs are the most vulnerable to numerous health issues.

In the end, make sure to check in with your breeder or a rescue volunteer before buying or adopting one to prevent unwanted situations.

What is the English Bulldog Lifespan?

Generally speaking, English Bulldogs tend to not live as long as other breeds — the average Bulldog lifespan is just eight years, while the average lifespan for other dogs is 13 years. But why?

Sadly, human breeding practices are the main culprit. And while there isn’t anything you can do about the genetics of your dog, there is much you can do as an owner that will influence your English Bulldog life expectancy.

The English Bulldog doesn’t come close to being the longest-living dog breed, but they also aren’t the shortest lived either, so let’s look at this with the glass half full. And though eight years is the average English Bulldog lifespan, with healthy practices and attentive care, you can often extend his life to 10 or 12 years. Let’s take a look at how.

What Can You Do To Extend Your English Bulldog’s Lifespan?

You shouldn’t necessarily be discouraged by the Bulldog’s relatively short lifespan. Those years will be filled with love, silliness, and lots of fun and cuddles with your dog. But to help you do your homework, here are a few things you can do to help extend his lifespan.

Get Your English Bulldog From A Reputable Breeder

The first thing you can do to help your Bulldog’s lifespan is to purchase one from a reputable breeder.

Do your homework when you’re looking for a puppy and make sure his parents don’t have a history of any genetic diseases. You’ll also want to find a veterinarian who has experience working with the breed and is knowledgeable.

Feed Your Dog A Healthy Diet

Another easy way to help extend your English Bulldog’s lifespan is to feed him a healthy, nutritionally balanced diet throughout his life. You’ll want more than the generic big name food brands, and will want to go for something organic and more healthy. You’ll also need to limit your bulldog’s food intake as he can seemingly never get enough food.

English Bulldog’s are very food motivated, and you will often need to use treats to get him going, so make sure you are giving him healthy treats as well, otherwise you will risk fattening him up. Also be sure not to feed him food from the table, and make sure to monitor any children, as they are often enablers of your dog’s begging and will think it’s funny to give him food.

Give Your English Bulldog Enough Exercise

While the English Bulldog is a relatively low maintenance animal when it comes to exercise, this breed still needs a moderate amount to stay healthy.

Along with a healthy diet, taking your pup for a daily walk or two will be greatly appreciated by your dog and will help him stay fit. If you don’t know how often you should be walking your dog, talk to your veterinarian for further recommendations.

A Bulldog can easily pack on pounds to his frame, and though he might look cute when he is chubby and full of rolls, you’ll want to keep yours as trim as you can if you want them to live the longest possible life.

Be Proactive About Your English Bulldog’s Health

Another easy thing you can do as a Bulldog owner is just to pay attention and be proactive.

Watch your dog’s behavior closely and if you notice him acting strange or moving differently, take him in to see your vet. And keep up with the maintenance required of your dog — wipe his skin folds daily to stave off bacteria, brush your dog’s teeth, check his skin for any hot spots, and bathe him regularly. These small upkeep tasks can go a long way toward the health and longevity of your dog.

The English Bulldog currently ranks as the fourth most popular dog breed in America, with no signs of it becoming less popular on the horizon. This has veterinarians worried because most English Bulldogs will develop genetic conditions like canine hip dysplasia, heart disease, and other debilitating conditions.

This is because breeding preferences to create today’s desired Bulldog look have forgotten to take into account the dog’s health. Until this practice changes, the breed will continue to be a relatively unhealthy breed. However, using the simple tactics listed above can put your dog in the best possible position to live a long and happy life with you.

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