Blue Merle Corgis: Everything You Need To Know!

A Blue Merle Corgi is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi that has a blue merle coat pattern. This coat has light patches of black throughout, which look blue in color. It is sometimes referred to as dappled or marbled. 

If you’re reading this it’s probably because you came across a Blue Merle Corgi (online or IRL) and you’ve fallen in love.

With their unusual coat patterns, I totally understand why. This kind of Cardigan Welsh Corgi certainly stands out!

However, it’s really important that you understand the genetics behind their appearance.

And, more importantly, be cautious when seeking out a breeder who claims to specialize in Merle Corgis.

In this article, I’ll share essential information about Blue Merle Corgis, including their genetic background and how to find a responsible breeder. 

Let’s go!

Key Takeaways

• Discover exactly what kind of breed the Merle Corgi is.
• Genetic health risks associated with the merle gene.
• Why it’s important to avoid breeders that claim to specialize in Merles.

What does a Blue Merle Corgi look like?

First things first, let’s take a look at what a Blue Merle Corgi looks like.

Now let’s take a closer look at the exact definition of ‘blue merle’ and the science behind the pattern.

The Definition of Blue Merle 

Merle is a coat color pattern consisting of bluish or reddish-gray with splotches of black or reddish-brown.

A blue merle coat doesn’t actually contain any blue. Instead, it’s made up of large patches of light black (that appear blue) as well as smaller, darker patches of black.

How To Create a Blue Merle Corgi

Merle is produced by a semi-dominant gene known as the M-allele. This affects the dog’s coat color distribution, creating a marbled or speckled effect. 

This striking appearance occurs when a Corgi inherits the merle gene variant from one of its parents. 

Pembroke Welsh Corgis cannot be merle. If you happen to come across a Pembroke with a merle coat, it will be a crossbreed of a Pembroke with a Cardigan.

Blue Merle Corgis and Their Distinctive Eyes and Nose

The M-allele doesn’t just affect a Corgi’s coat. 

It also modifies the dark pigment in the eyes, resulting in lighter-colored eyes, odd-colored eyes, or bright blue eyes.

Some Blue Merle Corgis also have mottled pink paw pads and noses caused by pigmentation.

Blue Merle Corgi: Health Issues and Lifespan

While there’s no doubt that Blue Merle Corgis are beautiful, this genetic trait must be taken very seriously. 

That’s because the merle gene can lead to issues like blindness, deafness, and higher rates of skin cancer. Particularly when two merle Corgis breed together.

If two Corgis that carry the merle gene breed, one quarter (on average) of the puppies will be “double merles”.

Double merles are more prone to eye defects like microphthalmia (when eyes are abnormally small) and deafness. 

According to one German study of 38 dachshunds, partial hearing loss was found in 54.6% of double merles compared to 36.8% of single merles. Just over 9% of double merles were fully deaf (1 out of the 11) and none of the single merles were.

Because of the health risks, responsible breeders do not deliberately breed for the blue merle coat color in Corgis and they never breed two double merle-carrying Corgis together.

Instead, Blue Merle Corgis happen by happy accident as a result of natural breeding between two dogs that carry the merle gene.

Average Lifespan

Blue Merle Corgis tend to live for about 12-15 years. 

Blue Merle Corgis: Physical Characteristics

Merle Corgis have a unique and eye-catching coat pattern which sets them apart from other Corgis. 

But beautiful markings aside, remember that Blue Merle Corgis are Cardigan Welsh Corgis (with a merle coat).

This means that they will have the features typical of other Cardigan Welsh Corgis.

For example: 

• A compact physique, characterized by short legs and a long body
• Height ranging from 10-12 inches
• Males usually weigh between 30 to 38 pounds, while females can be slightly lighter at 25 to 34 pounds
• A long, bushy tail that resembles a fox’s tail

Blue Merle Corgis: Personality and Temperament

Just like other Cardigans, Blue Merle Corgis are highly intelligent and very affectionate. They also make great companions for families and individuals alike thanks to their adaptability.

As long as they get at least 60 minutes of exercise a day, they’ll thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes with yards.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are known for their strong herding instincts and can be independent and stubborn at times. Consistent training and socialization from a young age is important.

Blue Merle Corgis can also be slightly more reserved than their Pembroke counterparts and sometimes take a little longer to trust new people. 

Blue Merle Corgis: Grooming and Care

Merle Corgis have a double coat that sheds a lot.

To effectively manage shedding, regular brushing is essential. I use a slicker brush on Winston to help remove loose hair and prevent matting. 

I brush him at least twice a week, but during heavy shedding periods, I might brush daily to keep the shedding under control.

Another important aspect of grooming and care is nail trimming. Blue Merle Corgis require a nail trim every 8-12 weeks.

How To Find An Ethical Merle Corgi Breeder

If you’d like a Blue Merle Corgi, it’s important that you research ethical breeders to avoid the health risks mentioned above.

Ethical Merle Corgi Breeder Checklist

When researching Blue Merle Corgi breeders, I recommend starting with The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America’s (CWCCA) Breeders Directory.

As blue merle coats are only found in Cardigan Welsh Corgis, this directory will be a helpful resource.

When searching for a reputable breeder, look for the following characteristics to ensure they’re ethical:

• They complete all required health tests by the CWCCA
• They abide by the CWCCA’s Code of Ethics
• They require a clear and thorough contract that includes the puppy’s registration number, names of the puppy’s parents, and healthcare records

Asking friends and family members if they know any responsible Cardigan Corgi breeders can also be helpful. 

Be wary of puppies listed for sale on social media, as this can be a red flag for puppy mills or backyard breeders.

Long waitlists or a lack of online presence are not unusual. A responsible Corgi breeder typically has a waitlist since their quality breeding is in high demand, and they may not need an online presence.

If you find a highly recommended breeder that you love, put your name on their waitlist and check in every few months so they know you’re interested.

How To Spot An Irresponsible Merle Corgi Breeder

When searching for your Corgi, avoid breeders that market their puppies based purely on rare coat colors like blue merle.

Ethical breeders will prioritize the health and temperament of their Corgis — not their color.

Backyard breeders, on the other hand, will try to capitalize on people’s desire for less common ‘designer’ dogs like cowboy Corgis or those with unusual markings, like blue merle.

Breeding these Corgis for their aesthetic alone means that many of these mixed-breed puppies will end up with lifelong behavioral or health problems.

Watch out for the following red flags when you’re searching for a Blue Merle Corgi:

• Lack of health screenings (or cannot provide results) for genetic conditions
• No dog parent is available for you to meet
• There’s an absence of documentation

It’s in the best interest of you and your future Corgi to thoroughly research breeders before bringing one home.

You want a breeder who is willing to take their time to breed quality Corgis with good genetics. 

Not someone who is breeding Corgis for the “perfect color”.

So, Should You Get a Blue Merle Corgi?

Let’s take a look at what is (and isn’t) a suitable lifestyle for a Blue Merle Corgi to help you decide if this breed is right for you.

A Blue Merle Corgi is right for you if…

• You are looking for an adaptable and affectionate companion. They are friendly with other people and pets, making them great family dogs.

• You have experience with training and socializing dogs, or are willing to invest time and effort into learning how to train and socialize your Cardigan Welsh Corgi. They’re intelligent dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, they may exhibit herding behaviors and/or dominance if not properly trained.

• You’re happy to groom them regularly! Remember: Cardigans shed on an almost daily basis.

A Blue Merle Corgi isn’t right for you if…

• You aren’t able to provide enough exercise or playtime for your dog. Cardigan Welsh Corgis require at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day to avoid becoming bored or destructive.

• You’re very busy or aren’t able to spend enough time with your dog during the day. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are social dogs and enjoy spending time with their owners. They’re known as ‘velcro dogs’ and hate being left on their own.

• You have small children. While Cardigan Welsh Corgis are friendly with children, they may not tolerate rough play or handling. If you have small children in the household, it’s important to supervise interactions between your dog and children to prevent any accidents or injuries.

What’s The Difference Between A Merle Corgi and A Cowboy Corgi?

Some Blue Merle Corgis and Cowboy Corgis look very similar thanks to their merle coats.

However, these two dogs can be quite different in terms of personality and breeding.

Let’s take a look at the two of them side-by-side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What health issues are common in Blue Merle Corgis?

Blue Merle Corgis may face some health issues, such as:

• Hip dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Cataracts
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

It’s imperative you thoroughly research breeders before you purchase a Blue Merle Corgi to ensure there are no double merle puppies in the litter.

How much does a Blue Merle Corgi cost?

The average cost of a Blue Merle Corgi can vary, but typically it ranges between $2,000 to $3,500.

Factors that affect the price include the breeder’s reputation, the quality and health of the puppy, and the demand for this coat color.

Can Pembroke Welsh Corgis be merle?

No, you cannot get a Blue Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The blue merle coat coloration is associated with Cardigan Welsh Corgis. 

It is not standard in Pembroke Welsh Corgis, and breeding for merle in Pembrokes is unethical.

Are Blue Merle Corgis recognized by breed registries?

The blue merle coat color is recognized and accepted in the Cardigan Welsh Corgi breed standards laid out by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

However, it is not recognized or accepted in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed standards.

What is the lifespan of a Blue Merle Corgi?

The lifespan of a Blue Merle Corgi is 12-15 years.