The blue merle French Bulldog, affectionately known as the blue merle Frenchie, has become increasingly popular in the canine world. Its unique coat color and often sky blue eyes make it a distinct feature in the French Bulldog family. Not just a pretty face, the blue merle variant stands out even among its charming relatives like the lilac merle French Bulldog. Renowned for being a selling point among breeders, these dogs have captured the hearts of many, sparking significant interest since June 2021.
This breed has seen a meteoric rise in popularity across the US, with states such as Florida, Texas, California, Georgia, and Missouri emerging as top destinations for new owners. Yet, its journey to fame is not without controversy. Due to ethical reasons, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize this breed, unlike other variations of French Bulldogs. This lack of recognition raises questions about ethical breeding and the importance of feeling comfortable when buying a pet. A decision to adopt a blue merle Frenchie should not feel forced, as this can lead to an awkward situation where the buyer gets cold feet. Given their not-so-cheap price tag and need for adequate attention, this is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
History of Blue Merle French Bulldog
Delving into the history of the Blue Merle French Bulldog, one discovers a story rich with creativity and dedication from dog breeders. This rare and unique color variance has etched a special place within the beloved French Bulldog breed. Originating from the early 20th century in America, the French bulldog blue merle has a credible lineage that speaks volumes of its journey. Initially, French Bulldogs, developed in England as miniature versions of the Bulldog, found their way to France, quickly becoming famous companion dogs.
The popularity of the blue and tan merle French bulldog paved the way for breeders to start experimenting with different color variations. This exploration led to the emergence of the Blue Merle variant, a rare color variation that captured the hearts of many. However, the path to recognition was not smooth. The American Kennel Club (AKC) was hesitant to accept Blue French Bulldogs until the 2010s. Concerns over health problems linked to their distinct coat pattern posed significant challenges. But, as the world evolved with social media and the internet, the Blue Merle French Bulldog grew increasingly popular, overcoming initial skepticism.
Despite their controversial start, the emphasis on breeding healthy dogs with stable temperaments has been paramount. The blue brindle merle french bulldog is a shining example of this commitment. As a dog lover and a keen observer of canine trends, I’ve watched the Blue Merle French Bulldog’s rise in popularity with keen interest, appreciating the intricate balance breeders maintain between beauty and health.
Appearance of Blue Merle French Bulldog
The Merle French Bulldog is a captivating sight, presenting a stunning and unique color variation within the traditional French Bulldog breed. The merle blue french Bulldog exhibits a striking, almost psychedelic appearance, making it a standout among its canine counterparts. This eye-catching coat, especially evident in the blue pied merle french bulldog, is more than just a visual treat; it represents the intricate genetic makeup of these adorable dogs. The distinctive facial structure, characterized by a short, broad muzzle, a wrinkled, eloquent face, and round, dark eyes, reflects an alert and curious personality that is both engaging and heartwarming.
When observing the blue tan merle french bulldogs, one can’t help but admire their compact and muscular build, which comes with a low center of gravity and a sturdy frame. This small-sized dog breed, typically 11-12 inches (28-30 cm) tall at the shoulder, presents a robust yet charming stature. The blue lilac merle french bulldog particularly showcases how size, influenced by genetics, diet, and exercise, plays a crucial role in their overall physical appearance.
Despite their modest stature, the weight of these dogs, a reflection of diverse factors such as gender, age, diet, and exercise routine, is notable. An average merle french bulldog puppy weighs between 16-28 pounds (7-13 kg), and maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular exercise is crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. The coat of the Blue Merle French Bulldog, a mesmerizing mix of blue, gray, and black patches with white markings, is a result of a dominant gene influencing pigmentation in their fur. This color, a mixture of black and blue patches on a white background, owes its uniqueness to a weakening gene that lightens the black fur, giving it a bluish tint. The blue tri merle french bulldog is especially sought after by enthusiasts for this rare and alluring appearance.
Blue Merle French Bulldog Grooming
Grooming a Blue Merle French Bulldog is not just about maintaining their stunning appearance, but it’s also crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. I’ve gathered some valuable tips on how to keep these unique dogs looking and feeling their best.
Brushing
Regular brushing of the coat is key. For a blue-eyed merle french bulldog, this means using either a slicker brush or bristle brush depending on the length and thickness of their coat. Start from the head and work your way down to the tail, brushing in the direction of the hair growth. This not only removes loose fur but also helps prevent matting.
Bathing
When it comes to bathing, the mantra is simple: do it as needed but avoid over-bathing. Over-bathing can strip the skin and coat of natural oils. Always use a gentle dog shampoo with warm water, and ensure you rinse thoroughly. After the bath, dry your dog with a towel or use a hairdryer set on low heat.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is also essential. Trim your dog’s nails constantly to avoid them getting too long, which can cause discomfort or injury. A clipper designed for dogs should be used, and be careful not to cut the quick, which contains a sensitive blood vessel.
Ear Cleaning
Regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infection and remove dirt or debris. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth dampened with a gentle ear cleaning solution and gently wipe the inside of their ears.
Teeth Brushing
Lastly, don’t forget about dental health. Brush your blue and merle french bulldog’s teeth regularly to prevent bad breath. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs, brushing gently in a circular motion.
Nutrition for Blue Merle French Bulldogs
For Blue Merle French Bulldogs, as with all dogs, a balanced and nutritious diet is fundamental to maintain their optimal health and wellbeing. When it comes to feeding a Merle French Bulldog, selecting a high-quality dog food that caters to their specific nutritional needs is not just important, it’s vital. Factors like the age of your blue merle fluffy french bulldog, its activity level, and any underlying health conditions play a crucial role in determining the right diet.
Choosing a dog food that contains high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products is essential. The nutrients your dog consumes should come from high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish. This not only ensures they are getting the essential amino acids but also supports overall muscle health. Additionally, a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and fiber is crucial to support their digestive health. The dietary needs of a blue merle pied french Bulldog might vary, and it’s important to cater to its individual nutritional needs and preferences.
Blue Merle French Bulldog Training
Training a Blue Merle French Bulldog involves various strategies, each catering to their unique temperament and learning style.
It’s essential to start training early. Puppies are like sponges and learn quickly when they are young. This early start lays a strong foundation for future learning and behavior.
Positive reinforcement works wonders with a Blue merle fawn french Bulldog. Whenever they do something right, reward them with treats, praise, and affection. This approach not only encourages good behavior but also strengthens your bond with your pup.
When training, maintaining consistency with repetition is key. Use the same commands and methods each time you train your Merle French Bulldog. This helps them to understand what is expected of them and accelerates their learning process.
Socializing your Blue Merle French Bulldog is vital to prevent behavior problems. Introduce them to different people, dogs, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident.
Crate training is effective, especially in house training. Make the crate a comfortable space with treats and toys to help your pup feel comfortable and secure.
Teaching basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” is crucial. These commands are fundamental for keeping your blue merle french bulldog full grown safe and well-behaved.
Given that Blue Merle French Bulldogs can be strong-willed and stubborn, leash training is essential to maintain control in public settings. It ensures safety and good manners during walks and outings.
Health Issue Of Blue Eyed French Bulldogs
When it comes to Blue Eyed French Bulldogs, particularly the Blue Merle variety, prospective owners should be aware of several health issues inherent to the breed. Intertrigo, a condition marked by inflamed skin due to rubbing in the folds of saggy skin, is common in these bulldogs. Their heavy coat and saggy skin, while distinctive, require special care to prevent such skin problems. Epilepsy, characterized by sudden seizures, is another common disease in Merle Frenchie. It can be particularly distressing around children, though dogs often recover quickly post-attack.
Another significant concern is Perineal Hernia, where pelvic abdominal organs are displaced, a scary but common defect in Merle bulldogs. Consulting a specialist dog doctor is recommended as this condition can be painful. Brachycephalic Obstructive Syndrome (BOS), a skeletal defect due to small-sized skulls and narrow air-breathing tubes, leads to difficulty in breathing in adult Blue Frenchie Merles. Luxating Patella, a condition where the kneecaps are dislocated, and Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy), an allergy to environmental substances, are also prevalent issues.
In terms of sensory defects, auditory problems make training challenging for many pet owners. Hearing loss in Merle French Bulldogs can be present from birth or develop in adulthood, largely due to crossbreeding. Eye issues like Blindness, Cataracts, Jagged Pupils, Corectopia, and Microphthalmia are common in Blue Merle bulldogs. These range from light-sensitive jagged pupils to more serious conditions like displaced pupils and smaller-than-normal eyes, which can lead to unclear vision or blindness.
Cost of Blue Merle French Bulldogs
The Blue Merle French Bulldogs stand out as a rare color variation within the French Bulldog breed, and this rarity is reflected in their price. The french Bulldog blue merle price can range significantly, typically falling between $3,000 to $10,000. This variation in the cost of a Blue Merle French Bulldog is influenced by several factors, such as the dog’s location, the reputation of the breeder, the dog’s pedigree, and the overall quality of the breed.
While the price is a crucial factor and attribute in acquiring a blue fawn merle french bulldog, it should not be the sole critical consideration. It’s essential for prospective owners to conduct thorough research to find a reputable breeder. A breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs is more likely to provide a healthy pet, despite the higher cost. However, potential owners must be aware that breeding for rare colors like Blue Merle carries enhanced health risks for the dogs involved, an aspect that should be carefully considered when making a purchase decision.
Conclusion
The Blue Merle French Bulldog, with its rare and stunning color variation, stands out in the French Bulldog breed. Its striking appearance has made it highly sought after. However, potential owners must consider the complexities involved. The breeding of these dogs comes with inherent health risks and ethical concerns. Therefore, those considering adding one of these remarkable dogs to their family should do so with caution and care. It’s paramount to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and welfare of their dogs, ensuring a responsible and informed choice.