It’s no hidden fact that dogs bring out the best in us. One just cannot ignore the numerous breeds, they offer. Research suggests that you can tell much about the personality of a person by just seeing what type of dog they own. For instance, if you’re a Schnauzer person, chances are you’re as much spirited and fun-loving as your dog. Similarly, having a Merle Pitbull can signify being sharp and affectionate.
Breeding Merle Pitbull puppies have always been under fiery controversies. But even then, the charm that a sparse Blue Merle Pitbull creates on its admirers is unmatchable. If you haven’t yet heard about this debatable Merle Pitbull breed and are looking for some details, it’s time you do.
What is a Merle Pitbull?
Merle is a genetic pattern, often found in a dog’s coat. It is a condition in which blemishes of darker pigments are randomly orchestrated over a skin of lighter color. This merle color pattern is conceived as a genetic error by some and an eye-catching attraction by others.
A Merle Pitbull is a pit bull that has been bred to have this “merle” color pattern in his coat. Honestly, Merle Pitbull puppies are just regular pit bulls with no special traits or tricks. However, their unnatural beauty is what has attracted numerous dog breeders, over the years. But even then, this does not deny the fact that this pattern has long been in the eyes of controversies.
Blue Merle Pitbull
A Blue Merle Pitbull is a further rare condition of merle pit bulls having a blue nose. Both the breeding parents must have this specific gene for Blue Merle Pitbull puppies to be born. The merle gene gives the pit bulls a duo of icy blue eyes, instead of the regular browns.
Like the other pit bulls, a Blue Merle Pitbull is also quite playful and energetic. If you’re an athletic and ambitious person, you’ll love to have him play alongside you. The competitiveness and fearlessness of pit bulls make them an ideal muscle partner.
Due to their rarity, one question that often arises is; how long does a Blue Merle Pitbull live? The optimum life range of this breed is 12 to 15 years, which can even extend to 18 years in some cases. However, some genetic defects often surround the health of a merle pitbull, as seen in many cases. This controversial development is about the loss of sight and hearing abilities in the breed.
Characteristics, Breeding & Controversies Surrounding a Merle Pitbull
Characteristics
It is important to not confuse merle with brindle. Brindle is a uniform coloring pattern that gives the dog a complete look. Whereas, merle is more about discontinuous splashes across the skin. Aside from the unusual coloring, a Merle Pitbull has more perky ears and a shorter tail when compared to its natural breed.
Another fascinating aspect of having these pit bulls is the aesthetically pleasing blue eyes. Their striking pupils when contrasted with the merle pattern, make them even more desirable for breeders. Merle Pitbull puppies are rare in themselves. But even then, there are a few subtypes of them. One of them is the incredibly rare and beautiful Blue Merle Pitbull.
Coming to the simpler details, a Merle Pitbull has the same lifespan and personality traits as a regular pit bull. They even look similar in size and shape. They fit perfectly as service and therapy dogs. With their incredible charm and friendly nature, they can also be entertained as house pets.
Breeding
It is important to note that the merle pattern is not only restricted to pit bulls. Plenty of other breeds have also shown this pattern, time and again. These may include Great Danes, Australian Shepard, Welsh Corgi, Catahoula Leopard Dog, and others.
One theory that is up for grabs is that the Merle gene does not naturally occur in pit bulls. This means that a Pitbull has to be unnaturally bred with gene-specific species like Catahoula Leopard Dogs. But even then, the gene may not immediately show its effect. Many researchers believe that this gene has long repressed its effect through generations. And the rare Merle Pitbull puppies we have, are the effect of their early breeding line.
Controversies
Merle pit bulls have long remained in the eyes of controversies. These are the result of its health-deteriorating and breeding practices. The American Dog Breeders Association, the American Kennel Club, the UKC Breed Standard, and many other reputable dog organizations do not recognize merle pit bulls. Some of them even prohibit their breeding. Officially, the merle pattern has been banned in American Pitbull Terriers and such dogs cannot be bred or registered.
One may think of the above development as unruly. But with the health controversies surrounding the breed, the organizations may be right in this decision. Merle Pitbull puppies have a lack of skin pigments, which can increase their chances of skin cancer and sunburn. Aside from this, they have also been seen to exhibit certain sight and hearing disabilities. Common beliefs suggest that a merle gene leads to deafness and blindness in the later years of the dog’s life.
But this is not a factual case. Many merle pit bulls have been seen to live healthy and long lives. The defect range is about 25%, which is still a great deal of risk for a dog. Even then, breeders continue with this just to get a higher market price for Merle Pitbull puppies.
Conclusion
Buying a puppy is a huge decision. Some people tend to do complete market research before owning this responsibility. Others rely on their instincts, looking for just the click. Whatever criteria you prefer, the decision of going for the dog is entirely up to you. But make sure that you’re completely aware of all the facts. This will be helpful, not only for you but also for the Merle Pitbull puppies, you’re looking forward to.
The problem isn’t the merle gene. It is the reckless attitude of some breeders that ignore the standards. If you want to stick with Blue Merle Pitbull, we suggest that you find a breeder running genetic testing to ensure that the Pitbull doesn’t suffer from health problems later on.
