Puppy Buyer's Guide: What to Know Before Purchasing a Merle Dog

The swirling patterns of a merle coat can be breathtaking. Those striking blue eyes, the marbled greys and blacks - it is no wonder that merle dogs attract admiring glances wherever they go. But before you fall in love with that merle puppy in the photo, there are crucial questions you need to ask and red flags you need to recognise.

This guide is written for prospective puppy buyers who want a merle dog but want to ensure they are purchasing from a responsible breeder. The questions you ask and the documentation you request can mean the difference between bringing home a healthy companion and inadvertently supporting practices that cause animal suffering.

Understanding What You're Buying

First, understand what the merle gene actually is. Merle is not simply a colour - it is a genetic pattern caused by a specific mutation. Dogs carrying this gene can produce puppies with serious health problems if bred irresponsibly. As a buyer, you become part of the chain that either supports or discourages responsible practices.

A well-bred merle from health-tested parents is no more likely to have problems than any other dog of that breed. Understanding the interactions between merle and other colour genes helps explain why testing matters. The risks arise specifically from:

• Double merle puppies - created when two merle carriers are bred together
• Cryptic merle breeding without testing - when invisible carriers produce affected offspring
• Merle in non-standard breeds - often indicating crossbreeding and unknown genetic backgrounds

Essential Questions to Ask the Breeder

Before placing a deposit or committing to a puppy, ask these questions. A responsible breeder will answer readily and provide documentation. Evasion or dismissal of these concerns is a significant red flag.

1. Have both parents been genetically tested for merle status?

You want to hear a clear "yes" with specific test results. Ask to see the laboratory reports. A responsible breeder will have tested both parents regardless of whether they appear to be merle.

2. What are the parents' specific merle genotypes?

The answer should include specific designations like "M/m" (merle carrier), "m/m" (non-carrier), "Mc/m" (cryptic carrier), etc. Vague answers like "the sire is merle" without genetic confirmation should concern you.

3. What was the breeding combination?

Safe breeding is merle to non-merle only. If the breeder bred two merle carriers together, that is a fundamental red flag regardless of whether this particular litter produced any double merles.

4. Has the puppy been individually tested?

Due to allele instability, knowing the parents' status does not guarantee the puppy's status. Responsible breeders test puppies being sold as breeding prospects.

Documentation to Request

Ask for copies of:

• DNA test results - Laboratory reports showing merle status for both parents
• Health testing documentation - OFA/PennHIP for hips, CERF for eyes, breed-specific tests
• Registration papers - Verify the breed and that merle is an accepted colour
• Contract terms - What happens if health problems emerge? What are return policies?
• Health guarantee details - What is covered and for how long?

Red Flags to Watch For

Rare Colour Marketing

Be extremely cautious of breeders emphasising "rare" colours, "exotic" patterns, or charging significant premiums for unusual markings. This marketing often indicates breeding for appearance over health and temperament.

Excessive White on Merle Puppies

A merle puppy with extensive white areas, particularly on the head, may be a double merle. While some white is normal in merle dogs, excessive white should prompt questions about parentage and testing.

Merle in Non-Standard Breeds

If you are looking at a merle puppy in a breed where merle is not historically standard (French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, etc.), understand that the merle likely entered through crossbreeding. This raises questions about pedigree accuracy and what other genes may have been introduced.

No Questions from the Breeder

Responsible breeders interview buyers carefully. If a breeder seems willing to sell to anyone with money, they are likely not screening for appropriate homes - another indicator of priorities focused on profit over welfare.

Multiple Breeds or Constant Availability

Quality breeders typically specialise in one or two breeds and have waiting lists. "Puppy always available" often indicates volume breeding with less attention to individual dogs.

If You Plan to Breed

If you are purchasing a merle puppy with any intention of breeding in the future, additional considerations apply:

1. Get individual testing - Your puppy's specific allele type matters for future breeding decisions
2. Understand the breeding rules - Merle must only be bred to confirmed non-merle
3. Request breeding rights - Discuss with the breeder whether this puppy is suitable for breeding
4. Commit to testing future partners - Every dog your puppy might be bred to must be tested

What If the Puppy Has Problems?

Despite best efforts, health problems can emerge. Understand your contract terms before purchase:

• What conditions are covered by health guarantees?
• What documentation is required to make a claim?
• Is replacement offered, or a refund, or veterinary cost assistance?
• Does the breeder take dogs back if you cannot keep them?

A breeder who stands behind their dogs throughout their lives demonstrates genuine commitment to the animals they produce.

Finding Responsible Breeders

Start your search through:

• Breed clubs - National and regional clubs often maintain breeder referral lists
• Health registries - Databases like OFA show which breeders consistently test
• Breed-specific rescues - Staff often know the reputable breeders in their breed
• Dog shows and events - Meet breeders and their dogs in person

Take your time. A responsible breeder may have a waiting list, but the wait is worthwhile for a healthy, well-bred companion that will be part of your family for years to come. For those who may eventually want to breed, understanding the science behind merle genetics is essential preparation.