4 Merle Dog Breeds That Will Win Your Heart

Merle coat patterns have a special place in the hearts of dog lovers. These unique and eye-catching patterns add a splash of color to any breed, and there are many breeds that can rock the merle coat in style. 

These swirling, marbled patterns add a pop of color and personality to any breed, and plenty of breeds can rock the merle look like pros. From the energetic Australian Shepherd to the mischievous Dachshund, there are plenty of merle pups to choose from.

But with so many breeds to choose from, it can be tough to decide which merle dogs are the cream of the crop. 

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top merle dog breeds that are sure to make you say “wow” with their stunning coat patterns. 

So, if you’re ready to add a little merle magic to your life, get ready to meet some of the most playful and lovable merle breeds around!

Our Top 4 Merle Dog Breeds

Family ClosenessChildren FriendlySocialDogginess Rating
Border CollieThe Border Collie Dog is a loyal and devoted companion that is very close to family.
This breed is known for its intelligence, agility, and obedience, making them the perfect family pet.
They are also very protective of their owners and will do everything in their power to keep them safe.
The Border Collie is an excellent family dog and great with children.
They have a lot of energy and are very intelligent, which makes them ideal for families that enjoy spending time outdoors playing with their companions. 
Border Collies are known for their loyal, intelligent and active personalities. They are also very social dogs and get along well with other dogs and strangers.
Border Collies have a lot of energy, so they do best when they have a lot of interaction with people and other pets.
4/5
Catahoula Leopard DogThe Catahoula Leopard Dog is an incredibly loyal and loving breed that loves to form strong bonds with their family.
This breed is especially affectionate towards children, as they enjoy the energy and enthusiasm that kids can bring.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an excellent companion for families with children. They are known to be loyal, protective and very intelligent dogs.
Their strong family bond makes them great companions for children as they love to be part of the family and will do anything to please their masters.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a loyal, intelligent and energetic companion.
They are generally friendly towards other dogs and strangers. They typically do not show aggression unless threatened, in which case they may become territorial.
5/5
Australian ShepherdThe Australian Shepherd is an incredibly loyal and devoted companion that forms strong bonds with family members.
With an eagerness to please, the breed is known for its intelligence and obedience. This makes them very responsive to training and easy to integrate into any family dynamic. 
The Australian Shepherd is an incredibly friendly and loyal breed that loves being around children.
They have an endless supply of energy, making them perfect playmates for young kids. They are also eager to please, so they respond well to positive reinforcement-based training and can learn basic commands quickly.
The Australian Shepherd is a friendly and social breed, who gets along well with other dogs and strangers.
They are usually quite accepting of new people and animals, provided that they are properly introduced. 
3/5
DachshundThe Dachshund is a devoted and loyal family companion. They bond very closely with their owners and form strong relationships. This breed is known for being playful, loving, and affectionate.
They thrive in the company of their human family members and love to be involved in all the activities of the household. 
The Dachshund is a great choice for families with children.
They are known to be quite playful and friendly, and they form strong bonds with their owners.
Dachshunds are generally gentle and patient, which makes them ideal for families with children.
Dachshunds are an independent and brave breed of dog that can get along with other dogs and strangers if they are socialized early on.
They may be initially wary of strangers, but they can quickly warm up to them once they are familiar with them. 
5/5

1. Border Collie Dog

Height

19 to 22 inch

Weight

26 to 44 lbs

Lifespan

10 to 17 Years

Meet the Border Collie, the ultimate playmate! These pups are energetic, clever, and always up for a good time. With their distinctive black and white coat and intense gaze, Border Collies are a striking breed. 

Breeds such as the Border Collie were developed to control sheep on the hilly Scottish-English border.

They’re known for their impressive herding abilities and are often used on farms to keep livestock in check. But don’t let their work ethic fool you, these dogs love to play and make great companions for active families. 

Whether it’s going for a run, playing fetch, or learning new tricks, Border Collies are always ready for action. 

So if you’re looking for a playful and intelligent companion to join in your adventures, the Border Collie just might be the perfect fit!

The Border Collie is an excellent family dog breed. They are loyal, friendly and intelligent, making them great companions for all members of the family. They are also very affectionate and loving.

Border Collies are generally great with other dogs and people they don’t know. They are intelligent, loyal, and friendly, and they have an innate desire to please their owners.

Border Collies make wonderful family pets as they love to be around their humans and get along well with other dogs. 

The Border Collie Dog is one of the most active and energetic dog breeds. They are high energy dogs that require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Border Collies need plenty of exercise, such as long walks, runs, fetching games, or agility activities.

Border Collies are a highly intelligent and active breed of dog. They have an eagerness to learn, are very loyal and devoted to their owners, and can be quite independent thinkers.

They are considered to be one of the most trainable breeds out there, capable of learning complex skills quickly.

Things To Keep In Mind

Health

The Border Collie dog breed is known for its athleticism and intelligence. This breed is highly active, so exercise is important for their health. They need to be walked daily and given plenty of opportunities to run and play.

Their diet should be high in protein, with a good balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats. They are also prone to certain genetic disorders such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye diseases and thyroid problems, so regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential. Grooming should not be overlooked either; they require regular brushing and trimming of the fur.

With the right care and attention, the Border Collie can live a long and healthy life!

Grooming

The Border Collie Dog is an active and intelligent breed that requires a lot of grooming. Brushing the coat should occur several times per week, depending on the length of its fur.

It is important to check for any tangles or mats and brush them out gently. This breed is also fairly prone to skin problems and ear infections, so it’s important to check their ears regularly and clean them with a damp cloth if necessary.

Bathing should only be done when necessary as it can dry out their skin, but using a mild shampoo will help keep their coat looking glossy and healthy. Nail trimming should also be done regularly to prevent cracking or splitting.

Finally, regular brushing of the teeth is essential for keeping your pup’s breath smelling fresh and preventing dental problems in the future. All in all, proper grooming will ensure your Border Collie Dog stays happy and healthy!

Exercise

Border Collie Dogs are an active breed and require regular exercise to stay healthy. They are working dogs, so they need a job to do. This can be anything from herding sheep, to participating in agility or flyball competitions, or simply going for daily long walks.

As such, these dogs should have an owner who is willing and able to take them out for plenty of activities and outings. Border Collies love being outdoors and need the mental stimulation that comes with it.

Without enough exercise, they can become frustrated and develop behavioral issues. Therefore, if you own a Border Collie Dog you must provide them with the physical and mental stimulation they require in order to stay happy and healthy.

Training

Border Collie Dogs are very intelligent and active animals that require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Training them is essential to ensure they have a good quality of life. The best way to train a Border Collie is by using positive reinforcement, as they respond well to rewards and praise.

Training should begin when the dog is young, focusing on basic commands such as sit, stay, come and heel. It’s important for owners to be consistent with training and set boundaries for their pet so it learns how to behave properly. Obedience classes can help establish positive behaviors in the long run.

Other activities, such as agility or herding, can also help keep your Border Collie mentally stimulated and challenged. With patience and consistency when it comes to training, you’ll find that your Border Collie will learn quickly and be an obedient companion for years to come.

Nutrition

Border Collie dogs are a breed of working and herding dogs that require a nutritionally balanced diet to maintain their health. As active, intelligent animals, they need to have access to an ample amount of energy in order to perform properly.

The ideal diet for a Border Collie should include proteins from sources such as chicken, beef, fish, eggs and legumes; fats from sources such as olive oil; carbohydrates from whole grains; fruits and vegetables; and vitamins and minerals from supplements or natural sources. Furthermore, it is important that the food is provided in appropriate amounts since overfeeding can lead to obesity.

When it comes to treats for these active pups, low-calorie options like carrots or apples are highly recommended. Finally, adequate hydration is essential for any dog breed so always make sure that your furry companion has access to clean water.

2. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Height

20 to 4 inches

Weight

40 to 90 lbs

Lifespan

10 to 14 Years

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a unique merle dog breed that originated in Louisiana, in the United States. It is an intelligent, loyal, and energetic breed that loves to play and be active.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is known for their multi-colored coats, which can range from blue, red, black and white to brindle and merle.

They are athletic dogs with strong bodies and deep chests that make them great working dogs. They have an independent streak and can be stubborn at times, so they require an owner who is willing to provide consistent training.

They are loyal companions who will do anything for their family but tend to be wary of strangers. But with proper socialization and training, they won’t have issues with strangers or other dogs.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a great family dog breed. They are loyal, affectionate, and loving companions that form strong bonds with their owners.

They love to be around people and do best in families where at least one person can be home for most of the day.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an intelligent and loyal breed that is known to be affectionate with its family and other dogs.

They are typically good with strangers as well, although early socialization will help them become more comfortable around new people.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is not overly aggressive but can be protective of their family and can act suspiciously to strangers if not properly trained.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an active and alert breed that loves to work. They are independent and intelligent and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

This breed loves running, jogging, swimming, and hiking. They are also very good at tracking and herding animals, making them excellent hunting companions.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is known for its intelligence and loyal personality. These dogs are highly active and can make great companions for active lifestyles.

They are also very protective of their family, making them excellent guard dogs. 

Things To Keep In Mind

Health

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an active and hardy breed that originated in the US state of Louisiana. It is known for its intelligence, loyalty and energy. The breed is generally healthy but can be prone to certain health issues such as eye problems, hip dysplasia, deafness, and dermatitis. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet are important for this breed to stay healthy.

Proper socialization from an early age can also help prevent aggression or shyness in adulthood. Annual vet checkups are recommended to ensure the dog’s overall health remains good. Grooming should be done regularly with occasional baths when necessary and ear cleaning weekly to prevent infections.

Overall, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is a robust breed with reasonable health needs if given the proper care and attention it deserves.

Grooming

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a unique breed of working dog that originated in the United States. This medium-sized, short-haired dog is known for its loyal and protective nature, making it an excellent companion for active families.

Grooming requirements for this breed are minimal and include brushing their short coat once or twice a week to remove dead hair.

Bathing should only be done when necessary, as too much bathing can strip their skin of its natural oils. They also require regular ear cleaning and nail trimming to keep them healthy and comfortable.

Their teeth should be brushed weekly with a special enzymatic toothpaste formulated especially for dogs.

Allowing the Catahoula Leopard Dog to get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation will help them maintain good physical health and emotional wellbeing. With proper care and regular grooming, these beautiful dogs can remain healthy and happy companions for many years to come.

Exercise

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is an active and energetic breed that requires ample exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are a medium-sized working dog originally bred for hunting wild boar in the swamps of Louisiana, so they need plenty of opportunities to run and explore outdoors.

Regularly scheduled walks or jogs are necessary for this breed, as is playing fetch with toys or engaging in interactive games like agility training or flyball.

This can help them expend their excess energy, which can otherwise manifest as destructive behavior if they become bored or frustrated.

Training

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a famously loyal breed of dog and needs proper training to ensure they are well-behaved. As they are very active dogs, owners should focus on providing lots of activity and mental stimulation to their pets.

They need regular exercise and playtime, as this will help them to stay healthy, both mentally and physically.

Training should involve socialization with other dogs and people from an early age. It is important that Catahoulas understand basic commands such as sit, stay, come and heel.

Training for this breed should also include crate training as well as housebreaking to ensure that your Catahoula does not make a mess in the house.

Nutrition

The Catahoula Leopard Dog breed is an active, high-energy breed that needs a nutritious and balanced diet to stay healthy. This breed should be fed a premium dog food that is specifically designed for their size and activity level.

It’s important to feed them a food with enough protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

A good quality food will help to provide the nutrients they need for their overall health. In addition to providing high-quality dog food, these dogs should also be given healthy treats throughout the day as rewards or just as a special treat.

Some of the best treats for this breed include fruits, vegetables, lean meats and other sources of natural protein. 

3. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd - one of the merle dog breeds

Height

18 to 23 inch

Weight

31 to 64 lbs

Lifespan

13 to 15 Years

The Australian Shepherd is a beautiful, versatile breed of dog. These active, high-energy canines are loyal and devoted to their families and make excellent companions. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easily trainable and great for people who love to work with dogs.

The Australian Shepherd is also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a loyal family pet. This breed is known for its loving nature and strong bond with its owners. They are active, playful dogs that need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. With proper training and socialization, the Australian Shepherd makes a great addition to any household.

Their intelligence, strong bond with their owners, and willingness to please makes them an ideal companion for anyone looking for an energetic, loving pup.

The Australian Shepherd dog breed is known to be an excellent family pet. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence and great work ethic.

Australian Shepherds have a natural tendency to want to please their owners and bond closely with their families. They are good with children and can often become very protective of them.

The Australian Shepherd is a friendly and outgoing breed that gets along very well with other dogs. They are highly social and responsive, making them enjoyable to be around.

With strangers, they can be wary at first but warm up quickly once they get to know the person. 

The Australian Shepherd is a highly active and energetic dog breed, and requires plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are quick learners and need plenty of mental stimulation.

They are easily trainable and excel in obedience, agility, herding, flyball, dock diving, tracking trials, and freestyle activities. 

The Australian Shepherd is a loyal, high-energy dog with an even temperament. They are known for being very alert and intelligent, making them easy to train.

They love being active and enjoy spending time with their family, making them great companions.

Things To Keep In Mind

Health

The Australian Shepherd is an active, intelligent and loyal breed of dog. They are highly trainable and make great companions for those who have the time and energy to keep up with their needs.

The Australian Shepherd is known for its strong herding instinct and agility, making it a popular choice for sports such as agility trials or flyball competitions. In terms of health, the Australian Shepherd is generally a healthy breed.

However, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, eye problems and allergies. Regular vet checkups and proper nutrition are key to keeping them healthy throughout their lives. With plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and love, the Australian Shepherd is sure to stay healthy and happy for many years to come.

Grooming

The Australian Shepherd is a beautiful and intelligent breed of dog that requires regular grooming to stay healthy and looking their best. This breed has a double coat, with a medium-length outercoat and a wooly undercoat that can become matted if not brushed regularly. Grooming should be done at least once or twice a week to keep the coat in top condition.

The Australian Shepherd also needs regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. During shedding season, daily brushing will help remove loose hairs from its coat. Bathing should be done as needed, but no more than every few weeks to prevent skin irritation

Exercise

Australian Shepherds are an active breed of dog that require plenty of exercise. They need a minimum of 30 minutes per day, but ideally should receive more than this to stay healthy and fit.

Exercise requirements vary from individual to individual and it is important to determine the amount of exercise an individual dog needs.

An ideal form of exercise for Australian Shepherds is walking or jogging with their owners. This allows them to explore their environment, build muscle, and get mental stimulation from all the sights and smells around them.

Other forms of exercise such as fetch, swimming, or agility courses can also be beneficial for this breed’s mental health and physical well-being. 

Training

The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent and active breed of dog that requires a lot of training and exercise. They are highly trainable, and can learn basic commands quickly.

However, they need to be trained regularly in order for them to show their full potential. Training should focus on obedience, agility, and socialization with other people and animals.

Obedience classes should begin at a young age as Australian Shepherds have a strong herding instinct and can become easily distracted if not properly trained.

It is important for owners to maintain a consistent routine when it comes to training their Australian Shepherd in order for the dog to understand expectations.

Nutrition

The Australian Shepherd dog breed is an active and energetic breed that requires a high-quality diet to ensure they remain healthy and active. These dogs have a moderate size and require a balanced diet of both protein and carbohydrates.

High-quality proteins, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, should make up the majority of their meal plan.

Complex carbohydrates are also important for providing energy, so whole grains such as brown rice, oats, barley, and quinoa are ideal additions to their diet.

Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall health, so these can be added in small amounts to help round out their nutrition plan. Omega-3 fatty acids found in sources like flax seeds are great for these puppies.

4. Dachshund

Height

5 to 9 inches

Weight

16 to 30 pounds

Lifespan

12 to 16 Years 

The Dachshund is a breed of dog that originated in Germany centuries ago. It is a short-legged, long-bodied dog with a friendly and mischievous personality.

The most common coat colors are red, black and tan, as well as various shades of brown and gray. Dachshunds come in two sizes: standard and miniature.

They make excellent family pets because they are loyal and affectionate towards their owners. They also have a keen sense of smell which makes them great hunting dogs. Due to their playful nature, they get along great with children but can sometimes be stubborn when it comes to obedience training.

With proper training, the Dachshund can become an obedient companion that will offer years of love and entertainment for its owners.

The Dachshund is an excellent family dog breed. They are loyal and affectionate, making them great companions for children and adults alike.

Dachshunds tend to be friendly and outgoing, which makes them easy to socialize with other animals and people. 

The Dachshund is a friendly breed of dog that generally gets along well with other dogs and strangers alike. They are typically good-natured, curious and playful.

While they may bark a bit more than other breeds when someone unfamiliar comes to the door, they are usually not aggressive and rarely bite.

The Dachshund dog breed is a very active breed of dog. They have a strong desire to explore and are capable of running, walking, and playing for long periods of time.

They are also known to be quite clever, which helps them find creative ways to keep busy.

The Dachshund is an instantly recognizable dog breed, known for its long body and short legs. But they’re also known for their unique personalities!

Dachshunds are loyal, affectionate, and friendly dogs who will happily follow their owners around the house.

Things To Keep In Mind

Health

The Dachshund is an intelligent, quirky, and loyal breed of dog. Though they may be small in size they have big personalities. Unfortunately, due to their unique body structure and size, these dogs are particularly prone to a variety of health issues.

Common ailments include back problems, obesity, eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy, diabetes, and skin problems.

As with any breed of dog it is important to stay on top of their health and make sure they receive regular vet visits throughout their lifetime. A good diet and plenty of exercise will also help to keep these dogs healthy and happy for years to come!

Grooming

Grooming a Dachshund is important to keep them healthy and looking their best. They have a double coat, which means they need to be brushed regularly with a slicker brush to remove dead hair and knots.

It is also important to check for any skin irritations or parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Regular nails trimming will help avoid painful problems caused by overgrown nails. Bathing should only be done as needed, since it can dry out their skin.

The ears should also be checked regularly for signs of infection and wax buildup, cleaned if necessary with an ear cleaning solution recommended by your vet.

Brushing the teeth daily is also recommended in order to prevent gum disease and tooth decay that can result from poor oral hygiene. With proper care, your Dachshund will live healthy and happy for years to come.

Exercise

Exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for any dog breed, including the Dachshund. This active and energetic breed is full of energy and loves to play. The exercise requirements for this breed can vary depending on the individual dog, but they generally need at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity.

They are known for their love of walking, running, and chasing after toys. It’s also important to provide mental stimulation and interactive playtime with your dachshund.

Taking your pup to the park or providing them with plenty of toys will help them stay active and satisfied. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that they get enough rest throughout the day so they don’t become overly tired or stressed out. 

Training

Training a Dachshund dog breed is essential to ensure that they are well-behaved and can interact safely with other animals and humans.

It is important to start training early on and provide consistent, positive reinforcement. Training can involve basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come and heel, as well as more advanced commands, like retrieving or agility activities.

Additionally, it is important for owners of Dachshunds to socialize their dogs in order to prevent any aggression towards other animals or people. Socialization should include exposing the dog to new environments and people from an early age.

Nutrition

Nutrition for Dachshunds is an important factor in providing them with a healthy, happy life. They are a small breed of dog, so their calorie intake should be proportionate to their size.

A good diet for these dogs should include lean proteins such as chicken and fish, complex carbohydrates like brown rice and whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Healthy fats like those found in olive oil and coconut oil can also help promote a healthy coat and skin. As far as supplements go, multivitamins are recommended to keep your Dachshund in top condition.

Additionally, it’s important to make sure they receive adequate amounts of calcium to support their bones and joints.

Owners Also Ask

What breed is a merle dog?

A Merle dog is a canine that has mottled patches of color in its fur, usually gray, blue, or red. This pattern can range from subtle to extreme, and it is caused by a genetic mutation.

Common breeds of Merle dogs include Australian Shepherds, Catahoula Leopard Dogs, Border Collie and others.

What does merle mean in dog color?

The term ‘merle’ is used to describe a special type of coat pattern found in many breeds of dogs. Merle refers to patches of color on a dog’s coat, which can be either mottled or solid. The base color may be any shade, and the patches can vary in size.

How do you tell if your dog is a merle?

To tell if your dog is a merle, you should look for the characteristic marbled or mottled pattern in their coat. Merles tend to have irregular patches of lighter and darker fur color, often with blue or green eyes.

Do merle dogs have more health problems?

Merle dogs are often thought to be more prone to health problems than other breeds, although there is no evidence that this is true. Merle coats are caused by a mutation in two different genes, and this results in a distinctive coat pattern made up of patches of different colors.

It also can increase the risk of certain genetic diseases, such as deafness or blindness. However, responsible breeders will screen their puppies for any potential health issues before they leave the litter. Regular veterinary checkups should also help detect any potential problems.

Conclusion

The Merle Dog Breed is a highly intelligent and loyal companion that makes for a great pet. They are known for being easy to train, gentle, and loving toward their owners.

They come in a variety of colors and patterns which add to their charm and make them stand out from other breeds. Their coats require minimal grooming and they are generally healthy dogs with few health issues.

The Merle is an ideal choice for those looking for an active companion who will give unconditional love and loyalty. With its unique appearance, the Merle Dog Breed is certainly a breed to consider when selecting your next furry family member.

If you’re looking for more dog breeds and information about dog breeds, check out our main page.

Here are some specific dog breeds, just for you:

Smallest dog breeds
Cutest Italian dog breeds
Chinese dog breeds
Egyptian dog breeds
Asian dog breeds
Ugly dog breeds
Hairless dog breeds
Big white dog breeds
Big fluffy dog breeds
Large black dog breeds
Mountain dog breeds
Brown dog breeds
Irish dog breeds
Shaggy dog breeds
Red coated dog breeds
Big white fluffy dog breeds
Big black dog breeds
Prettiest dog breeds
Fluffy small dog breeds