Bully Merle
What is an American Bully Merle?
A typical American Bully Merle is a kind of American Bully dog with a “merle” coat pattern. This coat pattern is distinguished by unevenly formed color patches that might appear black, blue, or red. The results of crossbreeding two Merle American Bulldogs are Cryptic Merles, which do not show the regular markings and display an alternate form than the usual Merle Bullies.
The patches are often darker than the dog’s primary coat color and may seem marbled or swirled. A genetic mutation in some American Bully dogs causes the merle coat pattern. It is important to note that not all American Bully breeders and organizations acknowledge the merle coat pattern, and some consider it a disqualifying trait.
What Causes a Merle Coat in an American Bully?
A genetic mutation causes the coat of an American Bully with a merle coat pattern to look mottled or marbled. The merle gene, which influences pigment development in the skin and hair, causes the merle coat pattern. The merle gene can result in various coat colors and patterns, including black, blue, chocolate, red, and fawn, with merle markings. This coat pattern is not exclusive to American Bullies and may be found in other dog breeds.
What Characteristics Distinguish an American Bully Merle?
An American Bully Merle dog has a mottled or marbled coat with spots of color that are deeper than the base coat color. The strength of the merle pattern varies and might appear as minor, irregularly shaped patches or large, distinct areas of color. The merle coats may have a diluted, lighter color in locations where the merle pattern is present. The merle gene can result in various coat colors with merle markings, including black, blue, chocolate, red, and fawn.
What Eye Color Do American Bully Merles Usually Have?
American Merle Bullies may have two distinct colors in their eyes (heterochromia), or one or both eyes may be blue or partly blue. This is due to the merle gene’s influence on eye pigment production. Heterochromia is a genetic trait induced by various reasons, one of which is the existence of the merle gene. Not all Bully Merles with the merle gene will exhibit heterochromia or blue eyes, as this is a hereditary feature that varies from breed to breed. Some Bully Merles may have brown, amber, green, or hazel eyes or a mix of these colors.
What are Some of the Health Issues American Merle Bullies Can Have?
Specific health concerns may be more common in American Merle Bullies due to how the gene affects pigment production. These health concerns may include the following:
Deafness:
The merle gene can cause a lack of pigment in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss or deafness in one or both ears. This is more common in American Bullies with a double dose of the merle gene, which can occur when both parents carry the gene.
Eye problems:
The merle gene can also affect pigment production in the eyes, which can lead to problems such as vision loss or abnormalities in the structure of the eye.
Skin problems:
American Merle Bullies may be more prone to skin problems such as sunburn, skin cancer, and other skin conditions due to the dilution of pigment in the skin.
It is important to note that not all American Bully Merles will develop these health problems, and many individuals with the gene may live long healthy lives. However, it is crucial for owners of American Bully Merles to be aware of these potential health concerns and to work closely with a veterinarian to monitor for any potential problems.
What Can and Should Be Done to Stop American Bully Merles From Being Bred?
There are a few steps that can be taken to reduce the prevalence of the merle gene in American Bullies:
Responsible breeding:
One way to reduce the number of American Bully Merles is to ensure that only dogs with a single copy of the gene are bred. This can help to minimize the risk of health problems associated with the merle gene, such as deafness and eye abnormalities.
Genetic testing:
Before breeding an American Bully Merle, it may be helpful to have the dog genetically tested to determine whether it has a single or double copy of the gene. This can help breeders decide which dogs to breed and which to avoid.
Education:
Educating potential American Bully owners about the potential health risks associated with the merle gene can help to reduce demand for dogs with this gene.
Ultimately, the most effective way to stop American Bully Merles from being bred is to ensure that responsible breeding practices are followed and that potential owners are aware of the risks associated with this gene. This can help protect the health and well-being of American Bullies and ensure that they are bred responsibly and ethically.
American Merle Bully Personality and Temperament
Like all breeds, American Bullies can vary in personality and temperament. However, American Bullies are generally known to be loyal, protective, and affectionate dogs. They are often described as having a “bully” personality, meaning they are confident, outgoing, and assertive.
American Bullies are generally good with children and make excellent family pets, but like all breeds, they should be socialized and trained properly to ensure that they are well-behaved and well-mannered.
It is important to note that several factors, including genetics, training, and socialization, can influence the personality and temperament of an American Bully. Therefore, it is important for potential owners to consider these factors when selecting a dog carefully and to work with a responsible breeder to ensure that they are getting a well-bred, healthy animal with a good temperament.
Are Merle American Bullies Related to Pit Bulls?
American Bullies, including those with the merle coat pattern, are descended from the American Pit Bull Terrier, a breed developed in the United States in the 19th and 20th centuries. American Bullies were developed by breeding American Pit Bull Terriers with other breeds, including the American Staffordshire Terrier, the English Bulldog, and the Bull Mastiff, to create a breed with a more muscular and massive build and a friendly, people-oriented temperament.
While American Bullies are related to Pit Bulls, they are a distinct breed with their breed standard and are recognized by some kennel clubs, including the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not currently recognize the American Bully breed, but they are recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the World Kennel Club (WKC).
Is an American Bully Merle Purebred?
A Merle American Bully is considered a purebred dog if registered with a recognized kennel club or breed registry and meets the breed standard for the American Bully breed. To be considered a purebred American Bully, a dog must have a pedigree that can be traced back to purebred American Bully ancestors and must meet the breed standard for the American Bully breed. This typically includes characteristics such as a muscular, massive build, a short, smooth coat, and a friendly, people-oriented temperament.
It is important to note that the term “purebred” does not necessarily indicate that a dog is free of health problems or is of a higher quality than a mixed-breed dog. It means that the dog is a member of a recognized breed and meets the breed standard for that breed.
What are the Three Different Kinds of Merle American Bullies?
There are three types of Merle American Bullies, depending on the color of their coat induced by the merle gene.
Blue merle, red merle, and cryptic merle are the three classifications. Even though two of these are named after colors, their coats are rarely that color. It’s perplexing, but that’s the way it is.
So let’s get into it and discuss each of these three kinds separately.
Blue Merle American Bullies
Even though their name indicates otherwise, Blue Merle Bullies are black with areas of gray or tan. It would be fantastic if there was a dog that was all blue, but that isn’t the case.
They’re nicknamed blue merles because the gray regions in their coats seem blue in certain lighting situations, but that’s all. In reality, even those gray and tan specks are uncommon.
As a result, they are frequently confused with Tri-Color American Bullies and vice versa. However, unlike blue merles, tricolor Bullies lack the merle gene.
Blue Merle XL Bullies are more significant than standard pit bulls and may be bred to have a more muscular or “bully” appearance.
Red Merle American Bullies
The Red Merle Bullies aren’t really red like the blue ones. Their coloring is closer to the liver’s, and the mottles in their coat are typically cream, copper, or white.
Although not as far from red as gray is from blue, the name sometimes needs to be more accurate.
Red merles are significantly rarer than blue merles since they are far more challenging to develop throughout the breeding process. This is because this gene is carried by a considerably lesser proportion of Merle American Bullies.
Cryptic Merle American Bullies
Wait till you learn about Cryptic Merle Bullies if you thought merle bullies were unusual.
The most intriguing type of merle is known as cryptic because, although it has the merle gene in its DNA, it does not show itself in any conventional way.
This indicates they are neither blue nor red, nor only a little area of their coat has merled.
These may occasionally have black or liver-colored patches, although they are usually minor or entirely hidden by fur. As a result, they don’t appear like a merle at all, which sometimes baffles even the most knowledgeable dog experts.
But make no mistake: even if they don’t appear to have the merle gene, they do, and because it’s a dominant trait, they may pass it on to their children.
Should Breeders Continue To Breed Merle Bullies?
There is an ongoing debate about whether breeders should continue to breed dogs with the Merle gene, including American Bullies. The Merle gene can produce attractive coat patterns but can also lead to several health problems, including deafness, blindness, and other eye problems.
To produce a Merle puppy, both the mother and the father must carry the gene, and there is a higher risk of producing double Merle American Bullies if both parents are Merle. Double Merle puppies are at an even higher risk for health issues, as they have inherited two copies of the gene.
As with any breeding decision, breeders need to consider the potential health implications for the puppies and the potential risks to the breed as a whole. Responsible breeders should carefully research the potential risks and benefits before breeding any dog, including those with the Merle gene.
Merle American Bully Price
Merle Bullies may fetch extraordinarily high prices even though they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club and are not considered purebreds.
A puppy costs between $5,000 and $10,000 on average; however, this varies depending on various factors.
Some of the factors that determine the price of a merle are as follows:
Bloodline
Who were the puppy’s parents and were they in good health?
Breeder reputation
It may go without saying, but if you buy a puppy from a breeder, you should know their history and reputation.
Where you reside
Merle American Bullies are not equally abundant in every region of the world, so if you live in a scarce area, it may be more difficult and hence more expensive to obtain one.
Dog training
The more training the puppy has undergone, the higher the price.
Type and appearance
We’ve already discussed how certain breeders may attempt to cross various merles to produce unique and intriguing merle patterns, which results in higher costs.
Other factors, including those that cannot be forecast, can push up the price. On the other hand, these five can offer you a good idea of a puppy’s quality and pricing.
Naturally, this is merely the cost of putting the puppy into your hands and does not include any further costs you may incur.
Their health is a significant issue; therefore, they will need frequent and lengthy vet appointments and carefully designed meals and supplements.
Medical expenditures in these dogs can quickly mount, so it’s essential to budget for them before obtaining one.
Why Do American Bully Breeders Breed Merle Dogs?
There are many reasons why some American Bully breeders choose to breed dogs with the Merle gene. One reason is that the Merle gene can produce attractive coat patterns, which can be desirable to some potential buyers.
Another reason is that the Merle gene can be rare in certain bloodlines or the breed, making puppies with this gene more sought after and potentially more valuable.
It is essential for breeders to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of breeding any dog, including those with the Merle gene. Responsible breeders should prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and should be committed to producing healthy, well-adjusted puppies.
Double Merle American Bully
Double Merle is a term used to describe a dog that has inherited two copies of the Merle gene, a genetic mutation that causes a mottled or patchy coat. This can occur in any breed with the Merle gene, including the American Bully.
Double Merle dogs can have a variety of coat colors, including blue, black, red, and fawn. They are often born with white patches on their coat, which can result from the Merle gene.
Double Merle dogs can be prone to health issues, including deafness, blindness, and other eye problems. They can also be more prone to skin problems due to their patchy coat.
Breeders need to be responsible and avoid breeding double Merle dogs, as this can increase these health problems within the breed.
Chocolate American Merle Bully
A Chocolate Merle Bully is a pit bull-type dog with a chocolate merle coat color. Chocolate merle is a pattern of coloring in which the coat is predominantly chocolate in color, with areas of blue or gray interspersed throughout.
Brindle Merle Bully
A Brindle Merle Bully is a pit bull-type dog with a brindle merle coat color. Brindle is a pattern of coloring in which the coat is predominantly a base color with stripes or streaks of a second color.
Black Merle Bully
A black merle bully is a pit bull-type dog with a black merle coat color. Black merle is a pattern of coloring in which the coat is predominantly black, with areas of blue or gray interspersed throughout.
The Pros and Cons of Owning a Bully Merle
Pros
- Merle Bullies can have attractive coat patterns and colors.
- They may be less common than other coat colors, which could make them more desirable to some potential buyers.
- They can be loyal and loving pets like any Bully breed.
Cons
- Merle Bullies are at an increased risk for specific health problems, including deafness, blindness, and other eye problems.
- They may be more prone to skin problems due to their patchy coat.
- They can be more expensive to purchase due to their rarity and demand.
- Breeders need to be responsible and avoid breeding double Merle Bullies, as this can increase health problems within the breed.
As with any breed, it is essential for potential pet owners to research and consider the pros and cons before making a decision. It is also essential to find a reputable breeder who is committed to producing healthy, well-adjusted puppies.
Merle American Bully Price
Unfortunately, the solution is more complex. Prices typically vary from $5000 to $10,000+; however, they might be lower or higher.
As the breed has grown in popularity, what used to cost $2500 now costs $4000-$5000. Quality bloodlines and “bullier” dogs might cost considerably more than this. Those looking for the most excellent bloodlines could expect to pay $20,000 to $30,000+ for the best foundation breeding stock from a top breeder.
When investing $5-$10,000+ (depending on pedigree, achievements, structure, and quality), you must ensure that you are dealing with a genuine breeder.
Just because a breeder asks a higher price for a dog does not indicate it is superior to someone selling at a lower price. Is the breeder responsible for any remarkable dogs? Are there any well-known Studs? Have any Champions or Grand Champions emerged?
Numerous average pups are selling for more than $5000, as well as several outstanding Champion-produced American Bullies selling for less than $5000. The most crucial factor is who you do business with; make sure they have a solid reputation—request references.
If you’re a Pitbull lover and would love to learn more about various pitbull colors, this is the best place for you. Learn more about Merle Pitbull, Leopard Merle Pitbull, Tri color Merle Pitbull, Blue Merle Pitbull, and many others. Please navigate to Pitbull Colors on the menu to find them all.
Frequently Asked Questions About Merle American Bullies
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, American Merle Bullies are a unique and beautiful breed that can make loving and loyal pets. However, potential owners need to be aware of the potential health risks associated with the Merle gene, including deafness, blindness, and other eye problems. They may also be more prone to skin issues due to their patchy coat.
Prospective owners should research and choose a reputable breeder committed to producing healthy, well-adjusted puppies. It is also essential to consider the ongoing costs of owning a dog, including food, medical care, and training.
Overall, American Merle Bullies can be wonderful pets for the right owner, but it is essential to consider the potential pros and cons before deciding. With proper care, training, and socialization, American Merle Bullies can be loving and loyal companions for many years.
If you’re a Pitbull lover and would love to learn more about various pitbull colors and coat patterns, you’re in the right place. Learn more about the Merle Pitbull, Leopard Merle Pitbull, Tri color Merle Pitbull, Blue Merle Pitbull, and many others. Bookmark the website and check back frequently as we’re always adding more content!
Mandy has lived with pitbulls her whole life, and she has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge about these magnificent animals. Having had the pleasure of owning and caring for numerous pitbulls over the years, she has come to understand their unique characteristics, behaviors, and needs. Read more
