A Merle Bernedoodle is a mix of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, known for its distinctive marbled coat. Beyond its eye-catching appearance, this dog offers more than just looks. If you’re considering bringing a dog into your home and prefer a unique poodle mix, the Merle Bernedoodle might be the perfect choice. It’s not just beautiful; it’s also family-friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic. This article aims to help you understand why a Merle Bernedoodle could be the ideal addition to your family.
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What is a Merle Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. The term “Merle” refers to a genetic condition that creates a unique color pattern in the dog’s coat. This condition lightens the coat, but the color is unevenly distributed, resulting in splotches or smears of color on the dog’s appearance.
A Genetic Tale in Bernedoodles
Have you ever wondered why some Bernedoodles boast that striking merle pattern in their coats? Well, it all comes down to genetics, specifically a quirky mutation known as short interspersed nuclear element (SINE) in a pigmentation gene.
Let’s dive into the genetic dance of inheritance. Picture genes like a pair of dance partners—one from the mother and one from the father. When it comes to merle, dogs with the “standard” version have inherited one merle form (let’s call it “M”) and one non-merle form (“m”) of the pigmentation gene. This makes them heterozygous for merle, meaning they have different forms of the gene for that particular trait.
In our genetic story, think of “M” as the flashy dancer and “m” as the more reserved partner. Merle Bernedoodles, in the language of genes, are labeled as Mm for the pigmentation gene.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Merle inheritance plays out in an “incompletely dominant” manner. Imagine that “M” doesn’t entirely overshadow “m.” Instead, there’s a beautiful blend, like a dance where both partners contribute to the final appearance. The result is that unique merle pattern you see on these enchanting Bernedoodles.
So, the next time you marvel at a Merle Bernedoodle’s coat, remember it’s not just about looks; it’s a captivating tale written in their genes, where the dance of dominance and blending creates a truly one-of-a-kind furry friend.
The Palette of Merle Bernedoodle Colors
Have you ever wondered about the mesmerizing colors of Merle Bernedoodles? Let’s dive into the world of their coats and unravel the story behind their unique patterns.
The Merle Effect
Merle, a genetic trickster, plays with the natural coloring of a dog’s coat. It dilutes the hues in an uneven fashion, creating irregular patches of lighter color amidst a darker, fully pigmented base. Picture it as a painter’s brush, adding splashes of diluted magic to the canvas.
Base Colors
The Merle Bernedoodle’s canvas starts with a base color, usually black, chocolate brown, or reddish brown. Alongside the captivating patterns, you’ll often find white markings around their necks, on their muzzles, and under their bellies. Tan points elegantly bridge the gap between the white and darker areas, creating a harmonious composition.
Blue Merle Bernedoodles: A Touch of Mystery
Now, here’s where it gets enchanting. If the black base meets a grey diluted pattern, a Blue Merle Bernedoodle emerges. These mystical beings, with their blueish tint, become some of the most sought-after varieties in the doodle realm.
The Length of the Tale: Poly-A Tail and Merle Patterning
The length of a specific component in the SINE mutation, known as the poly-A tail, decides the intensity of the merle patterning. A shorter tail means subtle patterns, known as cryptic merle. On the other end, a longer tail unveils dramatic color dilution, often referred to as “harlequin” or “merlequin.”
Beyond Colors: The Eyes, Nose, and Paws Tell Their Own Story
Since merle likes to play with pigmentation, it doesn’t stop at the coat. The eyes may dazzle in blue or showcase a unique blend of colors. Paw pads and noses become an artistic canvas, featuring dual tones – black with pinkish spots.
Double Merle Bernedoodles: A Cautionary Tale
If two standard Merle Bernedoodles (Mm) decide to start a family, caution flags wave. About a quarter of their offspring may become Double Merle Bernedoodles (MM), donning all-white coats. However, this enchantment comes at a cost, as Double Merles often face health irregularities like deafness, blindness, and vulnerability to skin cancer. Breeding them is a road paved with health concerns and is strongly discouraged.
Merle Bernedoodle Coat
The Merle Bernedoodle’s fur is fluffy and can either be straight like a Bernese Mountain Dog or curly like a Poodle. If the fur is straighter (leaning towards Bernese Mountain Dog traits), the dog might shed more and could trigger allergies. On the other hand, if the fur is curlier (leaning towards Poodle traits), shedding is less likely, making the dog more hypoallergenic.
Merle Bernedoodle Size
Merle Bernedoodles come in different sizes, influenced mainly by the Poodle side of their family. Bernese Mountain Dogs are big, but the Poodle’s size varies more. Poodles have three sizes: Standard (big), Miniature (medium), and Toy (small). So, Merle Bernedoodles can fit various lifestyles.
Standard Merle Bernedoodle Size:
These are the bigger ones, weighing 70 to 95 pounds and standing 23 to 29 inches tall.
Mini Merle Bernedoodle Size:
These are medium-sized, weighing 20 to 50 pounds and standing about 18 to 22 inches tall.
Toy Merle Bernedoodle Size:
The smaller ones, often produced through a special process, weigh 10 to 20 pounds and stand 12 to 17 inches tall.
Merle Bernedoodles grow the most between 4 and 8 months old. They usually reach their final height by 12 months, but it takes a bit longer to reach their final weight. So, whether you have a big house or a cozy apartment, there’s a Merle Bernedoodle size that might just be the perfect fit for you!
Merle Bernedoodle Personality & Temperament
Merle Bernedoodles are known for their wonderful personality. They inherit the gentle, loving, and loyal traits from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent. Their activity levels, attention, and sociability are influenced by the Poodle side, making them intelligent, energetic, and in need of exercise, especially the larger ones. While they enjoy playtime in the yard and outdoor activities, they are equally content sitting by your side or on your lap.
These doodles thrive on attention and care, so it’s important not to leave them alone for extended periods to avoid separation anxiety, which could lead to behaviors like whining or chewing.
Merle Bernedoodles can be a bit sensitive to new experiences and may feel nervous around other dogs, strangers, or new places. Starting socialization early, between 4-8 months, is highly recommended to help them adapt.
With proper care and upbringing from attentive owners, Merle Bernedoodles from reputable breeders tend to display the best traits from both parent breeds. This makes them excellent family pets, getting along well with children and adults of all ages.
Caring for a Merle Bernedoodle
Welcoming a Merle Bernedoodle into your home means embracing the joy of caring for your furry friend. By prioritizing their health and well-being through grooming, exercise, and health monitoring, you’ll create an environment where your dog can thrive.
Grooming
The coat of a Merle Bernedoodle is a standout feature, but it requires regular care. Whether curly, wavy, or straight, their shedding habits vary. Curlier coats shed less, making the dog more hypoallergenic but need frequent brushing to prevent tangling. Straighter coats require brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Wavy and curly coats benefit from professional grooming every four to eight weeks. Additionally, trim your pup’s nails monthly and clean their ears regularly with a pet-safe cleaner.
Exercise
Regular walks offer a multitude of health benefits for your Merle Bernedoodle, including maintaining agility, supporting digestion, managing weight, and providing mental stimulation. Daily walks, ranging from 15 to 20 minutes, are essential, with larger Standard Merle Bernedoodles needing more exercise than the smaller Mini or Toy varieties. Exercise not only keeps them physically healthy but also helps build a strong bond between you and your furry companion.
Health
Merle Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 12-17 years, with smaller varieties generally living longer. While they are generally robust, the mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle genetics means they could inherit common genetic diseases from either parent breed. Health issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, cardiac problems, hypothyroidism, and various other conditions. Double Merle Bernedoodles (MM) are more prone to serious health problems, making breeding two Merle Bernedoodles inhumane and discouraged.
To mitigate health risks, DNA tests for the merle gene should be conducted, especially when breeding non-merle presenting dogs with Merle dogs. Responsible breeding practices ensure the well-being of these unique and lovable companions. By providing love, attention, and proper care, your Merle Bernedoodle can lead a happy and healthy life by your side.
Training Your Merle Bernedoodle: The Basics
Teaching your Merle Bernedoodle the ropes involves patience and understanding. Each pup learns at their own pace, but setting clear rules from the beginning is key. Here are four essential elements for effective training:
1. Manage Activities and Space:
Start with a management plan to guide your dog’s behavior. Use leashes, gates, and crates to control activities like chewing, digging, and barking. This prevents unwanted habits while your Merle Bernedoodle learns what’s expected.
2. Be a Kind Leader:
Dogs thrive under clear and caring leadership. You need to be the one in charge, providing for your pup’s needs consistently. Establish a routine for walks, play, meals, and rest. This leadership creates a relaxed and secure environment for your furry friend.
3. Meet Needs, Avoid Entitlement:
Fulfill your Merle Bernedoodle’s needs without overindulging. A well-cared-for dog is a happy dog, but excessive indulgence can lead to behavior issues. Maintain the value of praise and treats for effective positive reinforcement.
4. Positive Reinforcement is Key:
Use positive reinforcement early and consistently. Reward desirable behaviors with things your dog loves, like treats or praise. Since Merle Bernedoodles can be cautious, positive reinforcement helps ease their nervous tendencies and aids in socialization.
Dogs learn through direct association, so rewards must follow good behavior closely. Teach a marker word like “Good boy/girl!” to pinpoint the exact moment your pup does something right and gives you time to provide a reward. Positive reinforcement creates a positive learning experience for your Merle Bernedoodle.
Merle Bernedoodle Price: Understanding the Cost
Merle Bernedoodles come with a higher price tag compared to other dog varieties. This is due to their relative scarcity and the complexities involved in the breeding process. When you choose to get a Merle Bernedoodle from a reputable breeder, be prepared for a cost ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, with an average around $4,500.
Prices tend to be higher on the East and West Coasts of the U.S. and lower in the Midwest. Various factors contribute to the price difference, including the dog’s size (smaller ones are pricier), coloring, age, level of training, and genetic testing. Keep in mind that investing in a Merle Bernedoodle is not just a purchase but a commitment to providing a loving home for a unique and special furry friend.
(FAQs)
Are Merle Bernedoodles Rare?
Yes, Merle Bernedoodles are relatively rare due to the complexities involved in their breeding process. Ethical breeders avoid mating two Merle Bernedoodles as it increases the likelihood of serious health issues in the offspring.
Is the Merle Bernedoodle A Good Family Dog?
Absolutely! Merle Bernedoodles make excellent family dogs. They have gentle, loyal, and loving temperaments, and their high intelligence makes them relatively easy to train. Additionally, they are at least somewhat hypoallergenic, making them less likely to cause allergic reactions. With three sizes available (standard, mini, and toy), you can find a Merle Bernedoodle that fits your home and lifestyle.
What is a Blue Merle Bernedoodle?
A Blue Merle Bernedoodle is a Merle Bernedoodle with a black base marked with a grey diluted pattern, giving the coat a blueish tint. The uneven distribution of lighter coloring creates patches or smears of blue on the dog’s appearance. Blue Merle Bernedoodles can also have blue eyes, enhancing their distinctive look.
What is a Phantom Merle Bernedoodle?
Phantom Merle Bernedoodles, also known as Cryptic Merle or Ghost Merle Bernedoodles, have minimal merle patterning. While all Merle Bernedoodles carry the merle-type mutation, the extent of the characteristic patterning varies among dogs. Phantom Merle Bernedoodles exhibit little to no pigmentation dilution, creating a subtle and unique appearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Merle Bernedoodle is not just a captivatingly beautiful dog; it is a unique blend of intelligence, loyalty, and gentleness. Despite their relative rarity, these dogs make exceptional family companions, adapting well to various living environments. The intricacies of their breeding process contribute to their higher cost, reflecting the dedication required to ensure their health and well-being.
With their hypoallergenic tendencies and availability in three sizes, Merle Bernedoodles offer a tailored fit for diverse households. However, responsible breeding practices are crucial, with ethical breeders avoiding mating two Merle Bernedoodles to prevent potential health issues. As cherished family members, these dogs thrive under clear and caring leadership, showcasing their loving temperament and making them a joy to welcome into any home.
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