It is possible to breed two merle dogs together. However, it is important to understand the potential risks and consequences that come with this breeding practice. Breeding two merle dogs together can result in the production of double merle puppies.
A double merle, sometimes referred to as a homozygous merle, is a dog that inherits the merle gene twice. This occurs when both parent dogs carry the merle gene and pass it on to their offspring. The merle gene is responsible for creating the distinctive coat pattern seen in merle dogs, characterized by patches of diluted color on a lighter background.
When two merle dogs are bred together, each puppy in the litter has a 25% chance of being born a double merle. This means that not every puppy from the breeding will be affected, but there is a significant risk involved. Double merle puppies often have a higher likelihood of experiencing various health issues and can be more prone to certain genetic disorders.
One of the most common health issues seen in double merle dogs is deafness. The merle gene is known to be associated with congenital deafness, and when inherited twice, the risk of deafness increases. Double merles may have partial or complete hearing loss, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
In addition to deafness, double merle dogs can also have vision problems. They may be more prone to eye abnormalities such as microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes), coloboma (a defect in the structure of the eye), or even complete blindness. These visual impairments can affect their ability to navigate the world around them and may require special care and accommodations.
Furthermore, double merle dogs may be more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer due to the lighter pigmentation of their coat and skin. The areas with diluted coloration are less protected against harmful UV rays, which can increase the risk of developing skin issues over time. It is crucial to provide proper sun protection for these dogs, such as using pet-safe sunscreen and limiting their sun exposure.
The potential health risks associated with breeding two merle dogs together are a significant concern for responsible breeders and dog enthusiasts. Many reputable breeders avoid intentionally breeding two merle dogs in order to minimize the risk of producing double merle puppies. Instead, they focus on maintaining and improving the overall health and temperament of the breed.
It is also worth noting that the merle gene exists in various dog breeds, not just one specific breed. Therefore, the risks and considerations related to breeding two merle dogs together apply regardless of the breed involved. Responsible breeders prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive to avoid the potential health issues associated with double merle puppies.
While it is possible to breed two merle dogs together, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences. Breeding two merle dogs increases the risk of producing double merle puppies, which can have a higher likelihood of experiencing health issues such as deafness, vision problems, and sun-related skin problems. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and often avoid intentionally breeding two merle dogs together to minimize the risk of producing double merles.