What Does a Double Merle French Bulldog Look Like?
What does a double merle French Bulldog look like? In short, a double merle French Bulldog often exhibits a predominantly white coat with patches of color, frequently suffering from severe health issues such as deafness, blindness, and other debilitating conditions due to the double dose of the merle gene.
Understanding the Merle Gene in French Bulldogs
The merle gene is a dominant gene that creates a mottled or patchwork pattern in a dog’s coat. It affects the distribution of pigment, resulting in irregular patches of color against a lighter background. When a French Bulldog inherits one copy of the merle gene (merle), they will display this unique coat pattern, and their eyes may be blue or heterochromatic (two different colors). However, inheriting two copies of the merle gene (double merle) significantly increases the risk of serious health problems.
The Distinguishing Features of a Double Merle French Bulldog
What does a double merle French Bulldog look like? Visually, these dogs often have a striking appearance but at a terrible cost. Their coat is typically predominantly white, often exceeding 75% of their body. The remaining color patches can be any color the breed normally exhibits, like fawn, brindle, or black. The stark white color is due to the extreme dilution of pigment caused by the double dose of the merle gene.
Besides coat color, other potential physical traits include:
- Eyes: A double merle often has blue eyes, or even more likely, both eyes are affected. This can manifest as small eyes, malformed irises, cataracts, or even complete blindness.
- Ears: Deafness, either in one or both ears, is extremely common due to the lack of pigment-producing cells in the inner ear.
- Skin: Sensitive skin that is prone to sunburn and skin cancer, particularly in areas lacking pigmentation.
- Conformation: While not always present, some double merles can exhibit conformational defects related to improper development.
The Health Risks Associated with Double Merle French Bulldogs
The allure of a unique coat should never overshadow the devastating health problems often present in double merle French Bulldogs. Breeding specifically for a double merle coat is highly unethical. The list of potential ailments is extensive:
- Deafness: A significant percentage of double merle French Bulldogs are born deaf, either unilaterally (one ear) or bilaterally (both ears). This is a direct result of the gene’s impact on the development of pigment cells in the inner ear.
- Blindness/Eye Problems: The merle gene negatively impacts eye development in double merles. They can suffer from a variety of eye issues, including microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes), colobomas (gaps or holes in the eye structure), cataracts, and complete blindness.
- Skin Cancer: Due to the lack of pigmentation in their skin, double merle French Bulldogs are highly susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer, especially in areas with white fur.
- Neurological Problems: While less common, some double merles may exhibit neurological issues.
- Reduced Lifespan: The combination of genetic defects and health issues often leads to a shorter lifespan compared to standard French Bulldogs.
The Ethics of Breeding Double Merle French Bulldogs
Breeding dogs specifically to produce double merles is widely considered unethical by reputable breeders and animal welfare organizations. The practice prioritizes appearance over the health and well-being of the dogs. Breeders who intentionally breed for double merle traits are often focused on profiting from the “rare” coat color, ignoring the immense suffering they inflict on the affected dogs. It’s important to support ethical breeders who prioritize health and temperament. Responsible breeders will never intentionally breed two merle dogs together.
Distinguishing Merle from Double Merle
While both merle and double merle French Bulldogs share the merle gene, their appearances and health outcomes differ dramatically.
| Feature | Merle (Single Copy) | Double Merle (Two Copies) |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | —————————– | ——————————- |
| Coat Color | Mottled pattern, color present | Predominantly white with patches |
| Eye Color | Blue, heterochromia possible | Often blue or affected eyes (blindness, etc.) |
| Hearing | Typically normal | High risk of deafness |
| Health Issues | Generally healthy | Very high risk of severe health problems |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between “merle” and “double merle?”
The term “merle” refers to a dog that has one copy of the merle gene, resulting in a mottled coat pattern. “Double merle” means the dog has two copies of the gene, leading to a predominantly white coat and a drastically increased risk of deafness, blindness, and other health problems.
Can a double merle French Bulldog live a normal life?
While some double merle French Bulldogs can live relatively comfortable lives with dedicated care, their quality of life is often significantly compromised by health problems like deafness and blindness. They require specialized attention and management to thrive. Their lifespan is also typically shorter.
How do I know if my French Bulldog is a double merle?
The most obvious indicator is a predominantly white coat combined with other signs like blue eyes, hearing problems, or vision impairments. Genetic testing is the most definitive way to confirm whether a dog is a double merle.
Are all white French Bulldogs double merles?
No. A white French Bulldog can be caused by other genes that are unrelated to the merle gene. For example, extreme piebald or dilution genes can produce a predominantly white coat. Genetic testing is necessary to confirm.
Is it possible to prevent double merle puppies?
Yes. The best way to prevent double merle puppies is to avoid breeding two merle dogs together. Ethical breeders will not breed two merle dogs.
Why are double merle French Bulldogs so prone to health problems?
The merle gene affects the development of pigment cells. These cells are crucial for the proper functioning of the inner ear and the eyes. When a dog inherits two copies of the merle gene, the lack of pigment cells leads to developmental issues, particularly deafness and blindness.
What kind of special care does a double merle French Bulldog need?
A double merle French Bulldog may require specialized care depending on their health conditions. This could include veterinary care, assistance with navigation if blind, hearing aids (if applicable), and protection from the sun. They need constant monitoring.
Are double merle French Bulldogs more expensive?
Unfortunately, yes. The “rare” appearance often leads to higher prices from unscrupulous breeders. This increased price is unethical and exploits the dog’s compromised health.
Can a merle French Bulldog be healthy?
Yes, a single merle French Bulldog can be perfectly healthy. The health risks are significantly increased when a dog inherits two copies of the merle gene (double merle).
Should I support breeders who sell double merle French Bulldogs?
Absolutely not. Supporting breeders who intentionally breed for double merle traits perpetuates unethical breeding practices and contributes to the suffering of these dogs. Choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes health and temperament.
What does it cost to care for a double merle French Bulldog?
The cost of care for a double merle French Bulldog can be significantly higher than that of a standard French Bulldog. Veterinary bills can be substantial, especially if the dog has multiple health problems. Training, assistive devices for blind or deaf dogs, and protective measures against sunburn will add to the expense. Be prepared for increased costs.
What are the alternatives to buying a double merle French Bulldog if I want a unique-looking dog?
Consider adopting a rescue dog with unique markings or a French Bulldog with a standard coat color from a reputable breeder who prioritizes health and ethical breeding practices. The focus should be on the health and well-being of the dog, not just its appearance. What does a double merle French Bulldog look like, is only one factor, the ethics of its breeding and its quality of life should be the most important concern.