What to Know About Merle Pitbull
Did you know a Merle Pitbull puppy can cost up to $10,000? They are among the most sought-after and expensive dogs in the U.S. Their rare coat patterns, like blue, red, and brindle, make them stand out. But there’s more to these dogs than their looks.
Knowing their history, traits, and care needs is key for anyone thinking of getting a Merle Pitbull. Read on to learn more about this unique breed of pitbull and how to raise these dogs properly.
Facts Behind Merle Pitbull
- Merle Pitbulls are known for their unique color patterns, including blue, red, and brindle.
- They are 17 to 21 inches tall and weigh 30 to 60 pounds.
- They might have vision and hearing problems because of their coat.
- They shed a lot, especially in spring and fall.
- Their price can range from $1,000 to over $10,000.
What is Merle Pitbull?
The Merle Pitbull has a stunning merle coat pattern due to the merle color mutation. This genetic change has been around since 1922. It makes their coat look splotchy or swirled, making them stand out.
Most Merle Pitbulls come from mixing different breeds to get the pattern. They are sought after for their looks. But, we must think about the health risks of the merle gene in dogs. Issues like eye color changes, vision, and hearing problems can happen, especially in double-merle puppies.
The Merle Pitbull’s beauty and unique traits make them a great addition to any family. But, we must think about their needs and health first. At Mugleston, the needs and health of pitbulls are already our priority. No wonder sports athletes like Ernie Sims and Robert Ferguson often buy pitbulls from our farm.
Merle Pitbull History
The development of Merle Pitbull started in the 1920s and 1930s. John Colby began breeding Merle Pitbulls as early as 1922. This shows they’ve been part of the breed for a long time.
Early historical breeding focused on function over looks. This often meant getting rid of the Merle gene because of health risks. Yet, Merle Pitbulls are still loved for their unique colors and patterns.
Some registries once accepted Merle Pitbulls, saying any color was okay. But the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) changed its rules in 2005. They stopped registering Merle Pitbulls because of health concerns.
A study by the American Pit Bull Registry found Merle Pitbulls are healthy if bred right. But, breeding two merles together is not recommended. It can lead to bad genetic problems.
Merle Pitbulls have sparked many debates. Today, judges at dog shows see the merle color as a major flaw. But, their beauty and history still attract many dog lovers.
Characteristics of Merle Pitbull
Merle Pitbulls are known for their striking features. Their merle pattern makes each dog visually unique. Let’s dive into what makes Merle Pitbulls special.
What Does a Merle Pitbull Look Like?
The Merle Pitbull appearance is unique. They have coat colors like red, black, and buckskin. Their eye colors can be blue to hazel, thanks to the merle gene.
The spots and patches on their coats are not just pretty. They highlight the merle pattern. This makes every coat one-of-a-kind.
Merle Pitbull Size
Merle Pitbulls come in various sizes. They weigh between 30 to 60 pounds. Here’s a table comparing their average weights and heights:
| Gender | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 35 to 65 pounds | 17 to 20 inches |
| Female | 30 to 50 pounds | 17 to 20 inches |
Coat Type
Merle Pitbulls have a single-layered coat. It’s short and smooth. This coat type is less resistant to cold but requires less grooming.
Personality and Temperament
Merle Pitbulls are known for being loving and confident. They are perfect for families. They are not naturally aggressive, but may show aggression if provoked or mistreated.
They get along well with people and other animals. This is because they are well-socialized and friendly.
Merle Pitbulls are smart and love people. This makes them easy-going and friendly. They make great pets in any home.
To get a Merle Pitbull, find a responsible breeder. This is important for their health and behavior. Merle Pitbulls are loyal and loving, making them great family pets. We are an experienced breeder for breeding pitbulls. We have a large selection of pitbull breeds that are more muscular and have more beautiful skin colors than the Merle pibull. Check out our selection and you will get your lovely dog.
Common Health Problems
Merle Pitbulls have beautiful coat patterns but face genetic health issues from the merle gene. It’s important for owners to know these problems to care for their pets well.
Microphthalmia
Microphthalmia is a big problem for Merle Pitbulls. It makes their eyes very small, which can cause blindness or bad vision. Even with careful breeding, this issue is hard to avoid because of the merle gene.
Hearing impairment
Merle Pitbulls also have a higher chance of hearing impairment. The gene that makes their coat pattern increases the risk of deafness. Owners should watch for signs of hearing problems and make special adjustments to help their pets.
Skin Cancer
Merle Pitbulls are more likely to get skin cancer because of their skin’s lack of pigment. Sun exposure is especially dangerous for them. Owners must protect their pets from the sun and take good care of their dog health to prevent canine skin conditions.
How to Care Merle Pitbull?
These dogs are known for their unique looks and color patches. But, the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) has stopped registering merle dogs since 2005. This is because of health issues linked to the merle gene. It shows how important it is to breed responsibly to avoid health problems.
Caring for a Merle Pitbull means looking at their diet, exercise, grooming, and vet visits. This approach keeps them healthy and happy. It’s all about making sure they get the right food, stay active, and look their best.
The Merle Pitbull nutrition plan should include lean proteins and healthy fats. Feed them premium dry food, raw meat, quail eggs, and veggies. This diet supports their coat and keeps them full of energy.
How to Train a Merle Pitbull?
Training a Merle Pitbull is rewarding because they are smart and eager to please. Use positive reinforcement, as experts like Mary Harwelik suggest. This method rewards good behavior, making it kind and effective.
Dealing with selective hearing in dogs, like Merle Pitbulls, can be tough. Clicker training, as Marcy Setter from Pit Bull Rescue Central advises, can help a lot. It uses a click sound and treats to keep your dog focused and engaged. Use treats like cheese, apple slices, hot dogs, or chicken strips.
Keep training sessions short and fun. Aim for sessions up to 10 minutes or more, spread out during the day. Stay patient and positive as your Merle Pitbull learns. Here are the basic steps for training a merle pitbull
- Teach basic commands like sit and stay with treats and verbal cues.
- Use the stay command to keep your dog safe in different situations.
- Make training fun by adding distractions and changing locations.
Good socialization tips include exposing your Merle Pitbull to new places and animals early. This helps them stay friendly and confident everywhere. By following these tips, training your Merle Pitbull can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Finding Merle Pitbull Puppies for Sale
When searching for Merle Pitbull puppies for sale, health and temperament are key. Look for reputable dog breeders. They often have affiliations with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC). This shows they follow responsible breeding practices.
Why Choose Reputable Dog Breeders? They follow strict breeding standards. This ensures the dogs’ well-being and provides clear health records and genetic tests.
Prospective owners should visit breeder facilities. Seeing where puppies are raised and meeting the breeder is crucial. At Mugleston, we quite often receive visits from various pitbull lovers to see our healthy and friendly pitbull dogs.
Stay away from backyard breeders and shady online listings. They often lack the genetic quality for a healthy life. Manmade Kennels, with their experience and dedication, is a trusted breeder. They specialize in XL Merle Pitbulls and American Bullies, showing their commitment to quality and temperament.
In conclusion, carefully researching Merle Pitbull breeders is essential. Make sure they are affiliated with reputable organizations like the AKC or UKC. This ensures a healthy puppy and supports ethical breeding standards.
Create a Happy Family with Merle Pitbull!
Bringing a Merle Pitbull into your family can be incredibly rewarding. They have striking coats and are very affectionate. To adopt successfully, choose a responsible breeder who focuses on health and temperament.
Merle Pitbulls love to show love and loyalty. They are great with kids, forming strong bonds. They need training and the right care to fit into your family well. Daily exercise is key for their health.
Merle Pitbulls make excellent service dogs because they are smart and easy to train. They need a loving home but can thrive with respect and understanding. Remember, they might face health issues like deafness or vision problems, so regular vet visits are a must.
With a Merle Pitbull, we can build a happy family. Responsible pet ownership brings joy to both us and our pets. Let’s embark on this journey together and enjoy the many benefits of having a Merle Pitbull!
Question Hub
What is a Merle Pitbull?
A Merle Pitbull is a Pitbull with a special coat pattern. It has swirls or patches of color like red, black, and buckskin.
How does a Merle Pitbull differ from other Pitbulls?
Merle Pitbulls look different from other Pitbulls because of their unique merle coat. This makes them stand out.
What is the grooming requirement for a Merle Pitbull?
Merle Pitbulls have a short, smooth coat. This makes grooming simple. They need regular brushing, especially when shedding.
What is the temperament of a Merle Pitbull?
Merle Pitbulls are loving, smart, and confident. They are not naturally aggressive. They make great family pets if socialized right.
How can I care for a Merle Pitbull?
Feed them a balanced diet with lean protein. They need regular exercise and vet visits. Groom them well and protect their skin from the sun.
What training techniques work best with Merle Pitbulls?
Use positive reinforcement with Merle Pitbulls. They are smart and love to please. Be consistent and patient, especially in distracting situations.
Where can I find Merle Pitbull puppies for sale?
Look for reputable breeders who focus on health and temperament. Check for AKC or UKC affiliations. Stay away from backyard breeders and unverified online ads.