When it comes to dog breeds, few can match the charm and charisma of the beloved Corgi. Their distinctive appearance and lovable nature have made them a popular choice for dog enthusiasts worldwide. Among the various Corgi coat colors, Blue Merle Corgis stand out for their unique and stunning coat coloration. In this article, we will explore 10 essential things you need to know about Blue Merle Corgis.
What are Blue Merle Corgis?
Blue Merle Corgis are a variation of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed, characterized by their mesmerizing coat pattern. The “Blue Merle” pattern consists of a marbling effect, with patches of blue, gray, and black mixed with the base coat color. This creates a captivating and eye-catching appearance that sets them apart from other Corgi varieties.
1- The Unique Coat Coloration
The most striking feature of Blue Merle Corgis is undoubtedly their coat coloration. The patches of blue, gray, and black can vary in size and distribution, making each Blue Merle Corgi distinctively unique. The marbling effect is the result of a genetic trait inherited from their ancestors.
2- Origins of Blue Merle Corgis
The origins of Blue Merle Corgis can be traced back to the United Kingdom, where the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed originated. The Merle gene responsible for their coat coloration is believed to have been introduced through crossbreeding with other breeds such as the Australian shepherd. However, responsible breeders now ensure that this gene is carefully managed to maintain the breed’s health and well-being.
3- Personality Traits and Temperament
Blue Merle Corgis inherit the same endearing personality traits as other Pembroke Welsh Corgis. They are intelligent, affectionate, and full of energy. These dogs thrive on human companionship and are known for their loyalty to their families. Blue Merle Corgis also have a strong herding instinct, which may manifest in their behavior.
4- Health Considerations for Blue Merle Corgis
While Blue Merle Corgis are generally healthy dogs, the Merle gene can potentially lead to certain health concerns. The gene is linked to deafness, eye abnormalities, and skin sensitivities. Responsible breeders conduct thorough health screenings to minimize the risk of hereditary health issues in Blue Merle Corgis.
Breeding two merle dogs, especially Blue Merle Corgis, is strongly discouraged due to the potential health consequences that may arise from such a pairing. The merle coat pattern, which arises from a genetic mutation, is indeed visually appealing. However, when two merle dogs are bred together, there is an elevated risk of producing puppies with double merle genes.
These double merles, also referred to as homozygous merles, inherit two copies of the merle gene, rendering them more susceptible to severe health issues. These problems may encompass deafness, blindness, various ocular abnormalities, as well as an increased likelihood of skin problems and other congenital defects. Ethical breeders place a high priority on the welfare of the dogs they raise, and, as a result, they avoid mating two merle dogs to prevent potential suffering and uphold the overall health of the breed. Their breeding programs are meticulously designed to ensure genetic diversity and the well-being of the Corgi lineage for generations to come.
5- Training and Socialization
As highly intelligent dogs, Blue Merle Corgis respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly around other pets and people. Their herding instincts may need proper training to manage their behavior effectively.
6- Exercise Needs for Blue Merle Corgis
Despite their short legs, Blue Merle Corgis are surprisingly active dogs. Regular exercise is essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys are excellent ways to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
7- Grooming Tips for Their Coat
The beautiful coat of a Blue Merle Corgi requires regular grooming to keep it smooth and shiny. We recommend you brush their fur at least twice a week. It helps prevent matting and removes loose hair. Since Corgis are famous for their amazing coat, regular brushing should become one of the most important grooming routines.
Other grooming tips include regular ear cleaning, removing tear stains and teeth cleaning. Some dogs might feel afraid of tooth brushing, so in that case, you can try dental treats.
Other products you can use for maintaining your Corgi’s teeth healthy are dental water that should be added to his/her water bowl.
8- Blue Merle Corgis’ Lifespan
The lifespan of blue merle pooches ranges between 12 and 15 years. The Corgi’s lifespan will depend on the care and diet you give him/her. Since we all want our dogs to stay by our sides for years, it’s important to choose only the best food and regularly take them to vet checks.
Make sure your Corgi receives vaccine shots on time and pay attention to the vaccine schedule in your country.
9- Feeding Requirements
Proper nutrition is vital to maintain the health and well-being of Blue Merle Corgis. Even though they’re generally healthy breed, they still need high-quality dog food. The food for your Corgi should fit their age and size and should be provided in recommended portions. Regular access to fresh water is also essential to keep them hydrated. As we all know, the summer months can be very tricky for our pets. They enjoy spending time outside, but we should also keep an eye on them all the time.
Otherwise, problems like heatstroke and dehydration can occur very easily.
10- Finding a Reputable Breeder
Finding the right breeder of Blue Merle Corgis isn’t easy. Since mating two merle Corgis can result in producing a litter of poor health, it’s essential to find a reliable breeder. Some ‘’so-called’’ breeders want to earn a fast money by owning puppy mills. Unfortunately, Corgis produced in such conditions often suffer from hereditary diseases.
Responsible breeders prioritize the health and welfare of their dogs and conduct proper genetic testing. They will also offer guidance and support throughout the dog’s life.
Common Misconceptions about Blue Merle Corgis
There are some common misconceptions about Blue Merle Corgis, such as their coat color affecting their behavior or temperament. It’s essential to dispel these myths and focus on understanding the breed’s needs and characteristics.
What is the price of Blue Merle Corgis?
Since Blue Merle Corgis are difficult to breed, they are often priced higher than standard coat colors. Rare Corgis require going through a series of tests to maintain the good health of the breed. The price of a Blue Merle Corgi ranges between $2000 and $3500, depending on the puppy’s parents and whether they were show contestants and won some awards.
Some of the tests include:
- test on elbow and hip dysplasia
- eye examination
- cardiac examination
- genetic testing
- brucellosis testing
- parasite testing and vaccinations
- blood tests
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Are Blue Merle Corgis suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Blue Merle Corgis are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them excellent companions for families with children. However, like any dog, early socialization and supervision are important to ensure a harmonious relationship.
FAQ 2: Do Blue Merle Corgis require special care due to their coat color?
While their coat is stunning, Blue Merle Corgis don’t require specific care solely because of their coloration. Regular grooming and overall health maintenance apply to all Corgi varieties.
FAQ 3: Are Blue Merle Corgis prone to any health issues?
The Merle gene can potentially lead to certain health concerns, such as deafness and eye abnormalities. Responsible breeding practices aim to minimize the risk of these issues.
FAQ 4: How often should I groom my Blue Merle Corgi?
To keep their coat in good condition, regular brushing at least twice a week is recommended. Additionally, routine checks on ears, eyes, and teeth are beneficial.
FAQ 5: Can I adopt a Blue Merle Corgi from a rescue center?
Yes, it’s possible to find a Blue Merle Corgi at a rescue center. Many dogs in need of a loving home can be found through rescue organizations or breed-specific rescues. Adopting a dog is a wonderful way to provide a forever home to a deserving pet. However, before making a final decision, you should be aware of the fact that abandoned Corgis will probably feel frightened of everyone. They’ve been left in the street so you’ll need to pay attention to their socialization, quality nutrition and give them a lot of love.
Blue Merle Yorkies: Wrapping up
Blue Merle Corgis are undeniably captivating and make wonderful companions for the right families. Corgis can make a wonderful friendship with kids, especially if they’ve been introduced early.
Their unique coat coloration, combined with their affectionate and intelligent nature, sets them apart in the canine world.
However, every owner should be aware of their specific care requirements and potential health considerations. By choosing a responsible breeder and providing proper training and care, you can enjoy a loving and fulfilling relationship with your Blue Merle Corgi for years to come.