If you’re considering adding a French Bulldog to your family, you may have come across two distinct types: the classic French Bulldog and the Merle French Bulldog. While both are adorable, loving companions, they each come with their unique traits and characteristics. But which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll compare the Merle with the traditional French Bulldog, highlighting their differences in appearance, temperament, health, and care needs.
The Traditional French Bulldog:
The traditional French Bulldog is the more common and well-known type of the breed. With its compact, muscular body, bat-like ears, and affectionate nature, the French Bulldog has long been a favourite among dog lovers worldwide. They are playful, intelligent, and known for their loyalty to their owners.
Unlike the Merle Frenchie, the classic French Bulldog does not have the unique coat pattern. Their coats typically come in a variety of solid colours, such as fawn, brindle, white, and black. Despite their small size, traditional French Bulldogs have a big personality and are often seen as comical companions, making them great pets for families and individuals alike.
How Do They Differ?
One of the easiest ways to distinguish between a Merle and French Bulldog is by their appearance.
- The Merle pattern is the most obvious difference. Their coats are usually a mix of lighter and darker colours, creating a marbled effect. This can range from light blue with darker patches to a reddish brown with a mix of black. Their eyes can also appear more striking, sometimes showing different colours or having a unique appearance due to the Merle gene.
- The classic French Bulldog typically has a solid or brindled coat. The most common colours are fawn, brindle (a mix of dark and light colours), white, and black. Their coat is often smoother compared to the Merle variety, without the distinctive marbling.
Temperament:
When it comes to temperament, both the Merle and the traditional Bulldog are known for their affectionate, friendly nature. They are both great companions and thrive in family environments. However, there can be some slight differences based on the individual dog’s genetics and upbringing.
- Merle Frenchies are often just as playful and affectionate as their traditional counterparts. However, the Merle gene can sometimes lead to slight differences in behaviour, especially if the dog has inherited two copies of the Merle gene (which can sometimes cause health problems). Generally, Merle French Bulldogs are very loving and loyal, but it’s important to ensure they are socialised properly from an early age.
- The traditional Frenchie is known for its calm and relaxed personality. They tend to be very sociable and enjoy human companionship. French Bulldogs are known for their “clownish” antics, always keeping their owners entertained with their funny and playful behaviour.
Health Considerations:
It’s essential to understand the health considerations. While both types are generally healthy, there are some concerns to be aware of.
The Merle gene, while creating beautiful coat patterns, can also bring about some health issues. If a Merle inherits two copies of the Merle gene, it can cause serious health problems, including deafness, blindness, and vision impairment. For this reason, it’s vital to buy a Merle Frenchie from a responsible breeder who screens for these issues.
French Bulldogs are prone to certain health problems, such as brachycephalic syndrome (due to their flat faces), hip dysplasia, and skin conditions. However, they are generally not at risk for the same complications linked to the Merle gene.
If you’re concerned about health risks, it’s crucial to work with a reputable french bulldog breeder who tests for genetic conditions and provides proper care for their dogs.
Training and Care:
Training and care for both Bulldogs are quite similar. Both breeds are intelligent and can learn quickly, though they can sometimes have a stubborn streak.
Due to their unique genetic traits, Merle may require extra attention when it comes to training, especially if they have inherited any health conditions related to the Merle gene. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and early socialisation are essential for a well-rounded dog.
The traditional bulldog is known for being a little easier to train, as they are eager to please and enjoy spending time with their owners. They do need regular exercise, but their small size means they don’t require as much as more active breeds.
Price Difference:
One of the key differences that many prospective dog owners notice is the price. Merle French Bulldogs tend to be more expensive than traditional French Bulldogs. This is largely due to their rarity, as the Merle coat pattern is the result of a genetic mutation that makes these dogs harder to breed.
Prices for a Merle French Bulldog can be significantly higher, sometimes reaching several thousand pounds, depending on factors such as coat colour and breeder reputation.
Traditional French Bulldogs are generally less expensive, with prices varying based on the breeder and the dog’s lineage. However, they are still considered a premium breed, so expect to pay a decent amount.
If cost is a significant factor in your decision, this price difference may influence your choice.
Final Words:
Choosing between a Merle French Bulldog and a traditional French Bulldog comes down to your personal preferences, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a companion. While the Merle is an eye-catching and unique option with its striking coat patterns, it may come with additional health considerations and a higher price tag. On the other hand, the traditional French Bulldog, known for its charming personality and classic appearance, remains a beloved and more accessible choice for many dog lovers.
French Bulldogs LA, understand how important it is to choose the right French Bulldog for your family. Whether you’re drawn to the rare beauty of the Merle Frenchie or the timeless appeal of the traditional variety, their team is here to help you find the perfect fit.
Leave a Reply