11 Famous Merle French Bulldogs

Rocky Kanaka |

Sep 2, 2022

They’re adorable, spotty, and rare! Merle French bulldogs are some of the rarest varieties of this popular breed that you can find, and they’re stunningly gorgeous. With their mottled spots and striking contrast, merle coats have been favored by folks for centuries.

Undeniably one of the most sought-after designer purebred breeds, let’s learn about the merle French bulldog together.

Meet Some Insta-Famous Merle Frenchies

If you’re looking for examples of a merle coat, you won’t have to seek an audience in the king’s court. Today, you can just hop over to Instagram to find merle french bulldogs aplenty!

1. Mazie the Black & Tan Merle French Bulldog

Mazie the Black & Tan Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^Source:^{@_Crazie_Mazie}

Born in 2019, Mazie is an energetic pup with a big personality. This bubbly Ukrainian merle French bulldog may pose well for photos, but she loves to romp and play when she’s not in front of the camera!

2. Otis the Black & Tan Merle Frenchie

Otis the Black & Tan Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @Otis.GC}

Otis may be enjoying his life in the United Kingdom, but this pup’s rough-and-tumble tendencies aren’t very posh. He’s a little firecracker and mischief maker, and he’ll pop right into your heart!

3. James the Blue Merle French Bulldog

James the Blue Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @JamesBlueMerle}

James lives in the Netherlands, and he loves a good nap. No breed is a monolith, and James’ laid-back lifestyle is the perfect example of how French bulldog personalities can vary. He loves chilling out, sunbathing, and posing for his Insta fans.

4. Tito the Lilac Merle Frenchie

Tito the Lilac Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @ChiquitoTito_Frenchie}

Tito lives in Illinois, and was born in 2021. He’s an AKC-certified merle Frenchie, and he loves his family. If you’ve ever wondered if a French bulldog plays well with kids, then drop by Tito’s page to see that these gruff faces hide soft and squishy hearts.

5. Lola the Blue Tri Merle Frenchie

Lola the Blue Tri Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @Lola.The.French.Bulldog}

Lola is one of the younger pups on this list, and was born in January of 2022. Less than a year old, she’s still got a lot to learn! If you’re looking for insights on training a Frenchie, then Lola’s page is the perfect place to be.

6. Goku the Black & Blue Merle French Bulldog

Goku the Black & Blue Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @GokuMerleDog}

He looks a little like his namesake with those pointy ears, doesn’t he? Goku’s a real dapper chap, and he loves to smile for the camera!

7. Leavis the Cocoa Merle Frenchie

Leavis the Cocoa Famous Merle French Bulldog — ^{Source: @Leavis_The_Frenchie}

Leavis is a cocoa merle French bulldog living in Germany who has an impressively big smile. Born in 2016, this pup has spent his years enjoying life and romping around.

8. Kylo the Tri Merle Frenchie

Kylo’s the pup about town! He’s a great example of how these pups can fit into a city lifestyle, and love spending time with their people.

9. Toretto the Isabella Merle French Bulldog

Looking for a more suburban experience? Toretto enjoys his life in the suburbs, and he’s constantly updating his page with new photos. Toretto is a rare Isabella merle, a color variation sometimes referred to as “pure lilac” because these pups are even lighter in color than the pastel lilac merle.

10. Slater the Blue & Tan Fluffy Frenchie

Slater is a well-behaved pup, but that doesn’t mean he avoids play! He’s rambunctious when he wants to be, but his training keeps him in check. A rare combo of merle and the fluffy Frenchie gene, Slater is one of a kind!

11. Leo the Red Merle Frenchie

Finally, there’s Leo! This pup is a real layabout, and he’s an absolute snuggler! Even when Leo is hanging out with his people, he’s probably thinking about taking a nice nap.

What Type of Merle French Bulldogs Are There?

There are a few different color variations of the merle French bulldogs. No two merle coats are quite the same, and we classify the varieties by color.

Photo by Roberto Reyes ? in Cali, Colombia. May be an image of dog.

Photo by OTIS on April 12, 2022. May be an image of dog and outdoors.

These colors are not unique to merle French bulldogs. There are many standard French bulldogs colors, including:

Black
Blue
Brindle
Chocolate
Cream
Faun
Tan

While merle is one of the most coveted, you can also find spotted and sable French bulldogs. All of these classifications are descriptions of coloration, which means that all of these pups will be purebred French bulldogs.

How Are Merle Frenchies Bred?

Responsible breeders sire merle pups by mixing one merle French bulldog with a non-merle French bulldog. For example, a merle mother might be bred with a father that has a solid-colored coat and does not carry the merle gene. While this process does not guarantee that all (or any) of the puppies will be merle, it ensures that the genes responsible for this stunning coloration are passed on while avoiding harmful side effects.

Irresponsible breeders may breed two merle dogs together, which can result in a “double merle” puppy, which will often have multiple disabilities. Double merle dogs are often blind and deaf. These pups are then sold at high prices, and their disabilities may not be disclosed to future owners, so it is so important to do your research and find responsible breeders.

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Merle French Bulldog Names

Marbles: This name suits a Merle French Bulldog because their coat often resembles a marbled pattern with beautiful variations in color and markings.
Mosaic: The term “mosaic” refers to a piece of art composed of various colored fragments, making it a fitting name for a Merle French Bulldog whose coat resembles a mosaic-like pattern.
Blu: A common variation in Merle French Bulldogs is a blue-gray coat color. Naming your dog Blu is a playful nod to their distinctive coat color.
Luna: Luna is associated with the moon, and Merle French Bulldogs often have an enchanting and celestial-like appearance, making this name a good match.
Dexter: The name Dexter, meaning skilled or right-handed, could be fitting for a Merle French Bulldog as they often display unique markings and patterns that showcase their distinctive skills.
Freckles: Many Merle French Bulldogs have small spots or freckle-like markings on their coat, making the name Freckles a cute and appropriate choice.
Ziggy: Ziggy is a lively and energetic name, suitable for a playful and vibrant Merle French Bulldog with their lively coat pattern.
Mystique: Merle French Bulldogs often have a mysterious and captivating look due to their unique coat pattern, making the name Mystique a good fit for their alluring appearance.
Aurora: The name Aurora refers to the beautiful natural light display known as the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. This name captures the ethereal and enchanting qualities often seen in Merle French Bulldogs’ coats.
Picasso: Merle French Bulldogs’ coats can resemble a work of art, and naming your dog Picasso pays tribute to the creative and artistic qualities of their distinctive coat patterns.
Asher: Asher means blessed or fortunate and is a suitable name for a Merle French Bulldog as their unique coat pattern often draws attention and admiration.
Marley: Marley is a playful and charming name that suits the lively personality and eye-catching coat of a Merle French Bulldog.
Willow: Willow is a name associated with grace and beauty, making it a lovely choice for a Merle French Bulldog with their elegant and unique coat patterns.
Pixel: Merle French Bulldogs often have coat patterns that resemble pixelated images, and naming your dog Pixel adds a modern and tech-savvy touch to their appearance.
Jazz: Merle French Bulldogs exude a sense of uniqueness and style, much like the improvisation and creativity found in jazz music, making Jazz a cool and fitting name for your furry friend.

Merle French Bulldog FAQ

If you’ve ever had any questions about French bulldogs, then this is the place to be! I’ve rounded up the top questions about merle French bulldogs and answered them in this handy FAQ.

Are Merle French Bulldogs Purebred?

Yes. A true merle French bulldog will be the result of two purebred French bulldogs. Merle is not a separate breed; rather, it’s a classification for a pup’s patterning. You can also find merle shepherds, spaniels, and so on!

How Much Is A Merle French Bulldog?

You can expect to pay $7,500–$20,000 for a merle French bulldog. The high cost is associated with the rarity of these pups’ gorgeous coats. Reputable breeders will also charge more to cover appropriate check-ups and care.

Are Merle French Bulldogs Unhealthy?

Properly bred merle French bulldogs should not have any birth defects or genetic conditions, but double merle Frenchies may be at risk for blindness and hearing issues.

A standard merle French bulldog will be at risk of a number of conditions commonly found in the breed:

Ear infections
Breathing issues
Digestive issues
Mobility problems
Skin problems
Spinal problems

How Do I Know If My French Bulldog Is Merle?

A merle French bulldog can be distinguished by its coat. If your pup has the lovely mottled color and pattern, then they’re probably a merle. Many merle dogs will also have pinkish spots on their nose. Most have dark-colored eyes, but this is not a steadfast rule. Some merles have lighter eyes, and others may be born with eyes that are different colors!

You can also get your pup a genetic test to double-check if they’re a merle. If you purchase a merle French bulldog from a responsible breeder, you’ll be told if your pup is a merle. You can also request genetic information from the breeder, which can be used to confirm that your pup is a true merle.

Does AKC Recognize Merle French Bulldogs?

Yes. The merle French bulldog is recognized by the AKC but does not consider merle a standard coloration for the breed.

What Is A Double Merle French Bulldog?

A double merle French bulldog is the result of two merle dogs being bred together. Double merles will often inherit genetic mutations as a result of having two merle genes, and many double merle dogs will be blind and/or deaf. Double merle dogs are also prone to low-pigmentation and may be more sensitive to the sun and more susceptible to skin conditions.

To avoid supporting irresponsible breeders, do your research! Make sure that you acquire your next pup from a responsible and respected breeder. These folks truly care about their dogs, and they perform rigorous genetic tests to ensure that every puppy is as healthy as possible.

You can spot a good breeder by making sure they meet the following expectations:

Are active areas — such as grassy lawns for play — visible?
Are visitors allowed to meet the puppy’s parents?
Do their dogs have appropriate paperwork?
Do they allow visitors to see other dogs and their living conditions?
Do they have a waiting list?

You can also adopt a pup from your local shelter! While a merle French bulldog will be a rare find, you might just hit the puppy jackpot. If you decide to adopt, keep an open mind. You may just find a new furry friend that isn’t a merle French bulldog!

What is the best food for your dog?

The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are:
1. The Farmer’s Dog.

This is a fresh-frozen food that’s delivered to your home in just the right amounts for your dog. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. The Farmer’s Dog came up the winner with my picky dogs. You can see the fresh frozen food test here.

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2. Sundays Food For Dogs

This is an air-dried food. It has the convenience of kibble (just pour it in the bow) but is much much healthier. It’s like little pieces of jerky, so dogs go crazy for it. There are a number of air-dried foods on the market. My dogs tested 3 of them. You can see the results of the air-dried food test here.

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3. We Feed Raw.

This raw food for dogs comes delivered to your home is perfectly sized portions for your pup. They primarily source their ingredients from trusted U.S. farmers, with two exceptions: venison and lamb. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. Pasture-raised and grass-fed and finished, we highly recommend trying these formulas if you’re interested in the best-quality ingredients. Save 25% on your first order.

Supplements:

I highly recommend using a supplement on your dog’s food, not matter what you feed them, to ensure the meal is balanced and they are getting all the right supplements to help them stay healthy. The supplement I use is called The One from Front of the Pack. It has 12 ingredients that have been clinically-proven to keep your dog’s joints, skin, heart, digestion, and even their breath in tip-top shape. It’s also a powder, so easy to sprinkle on your dog’s food. For a limited time, when you buy one month you get a second month free.

What are Merle French Bulldogs?

Merle French Bulldogs are a color variation within the French Bulldog breed, characterized by a mottled or blotchy pattern on their coat. The merle gene causes variations in coat color and can result in unique patterns, such as blue, silver, or chocolate markings.

Are Merle French Bulldogs rare?

Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare due to the specific genetic combination required to produce the merle coat pattern. It’s important to find reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs when looking for Merle French Bulldog puppies.

Can Merle French Bulldogs have blue eyes?

Yes, some Merle French Bulldogs may have blue eyes. Blue eyes are a result of the merle gene interacting with other genetic factors. However, it’s important to note that not all Merle French Bulldogs have blue eyes, and eye color can vary within the breed.

How can I find reputable Merle French Bulldog breeders?

When looking for a reputable Merle French Bulldog breeder, it’s important to do thorough research. Look for breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, perform health tests, and provide a clean and caring environment for their puppies. Seek recommendations from trusted sources, check online reviews, and visit the breeder’s facility if possible.

Can Merle French Bulldogs be registered with kennel clubs?

The registration of Merle French Bulldogs can vary depending on the kennel club and its policies. Some kennel clubs may allow registration of Merle French Bulldogs, while others may not recognize them due to concerns about health issues associated with the merle gene. It’s advisable to check with the specific kennel club for their registration guidelines. The American Kennel club does not recognize frenchies with the merle pattern as an official French bulldogs, as it does not meet the breed standards.

Is it necessary to feed Merle French Bulldogs a raw dog food diet?

While a raw dog food diet can be beneficial for some dogs, including Merle French Bulldogs, it’s not the only option. It’s important to provide a balanced and nutritious diet regardless of the specific coat color or breed. Here’s a list of recommendations for the Best Food for French Bulldogs

Are Merle French Bulldogs more prone to health issues?

Merle French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues associated with the merle gene, such as deafness, eye abnormalities, and skin sensitivities. Responsible breeders conduct genetic health testing to minimize the risk of these conditions. It’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs

Can Merle French Bulldogs be shown in conformation competitions?

The eligibility of Merle French Bulldogs for conformation competitions can vary depending on the specific kennel club’s rules and regulations. Some kennel clubs may not allow Merle French Bulldogs to compete due to concerns about the genetic health issues associated with the merle gene. Check the competition guidelines for clarity.

How should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy?

Feeding your Merle French Bulldog puppy a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall health. Consider high-quality puppy dog food or a raw dog food diet or here are several Vet-Approved Homemade Puppy Food Recipes

How is the merle color created in French Bulldogs?

To create the merle color in a Frenchie, breeders usually crossbreed with a different breed, commonly merle chihuahuas, to get the gene they are looking for. This means that merle Frenchies may not be a pure breed

Where did the merle gene originate?

The merle gene is believed to have originated in certain herding breeds, such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds. It is a naturally occurring gene mutation that affects the distribution of pigment in the dog’s coat.
In dogs, this variegated pattern is caused by an insertion of a SINE element into the canine PMEL gene.

Over time, this gene has been introduced into other breeds through crossbreeding. In the case of French Bulldogs, the merle gene may have been introduced through intentional or unintentional crossbreeding with other breeds carrying the merle gene. It’s important to note that responsible breeders carefully manage the presence of the merle gene to prevent potential health issues associated with its expression.

What should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy?

A raw dog food diet can be beneficial for your Merle French Bulldog puppy. A raw dog food diet typically consists of muscle meat (often still on the bone), bones (either whole or ground), organ meats (such as livers and kidneys), raw eggs, vegetables (like broccoli, spinach, and celery), apples or other fruit, and some dairy (such as yogurt). Here’s a list of recommended food for a French Bulldog puppy: Top 6 Dog Foods for French Bulldog Puppies

What are some benefits of feeding my Merle French Bulldog puppy a raw dog food diet?

Feeding your Merle French Bulldog puppy a raw dog food diet has many notable benefits including firmer stools, improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, reduced allergy symptoms, and better weight management .

What are some different color varieties of Merle French Bulldogs?

Frenchies with a merle coat come in a range of colors including Blue Merle and Lilac Merle. Blue Frenchies have a black coat that is diluted to create a ‘blue’ type of color. The blue base coat color has more of a blue tint than a true blue color and is very unique against the darker patches of pigment. Lilac hue comes from a combination of the brown and blue coat colors. The blue coat is further diluted, creating a beautiful, unique coat with a slight lilac appearance

What is a Harlequin Merle French Bulldog?

A Harlequin Merle French Bulldog is a color variation that combines the harlequin and merle coat patterns. These dogs have a marbled or splotchy coat with larger patches of color and may exhibit variations in shades and markings.

What is a Cryptic Merle French Bulldog?

A Cryptic Merle French Bulldog, also known as a hidden merle or phantom merle, refers to a dog that carries the merle gene but does not display the typical merle coat pattern. These dogs may have a solid coat color, but they carry the potential to produce merle offspring when bred with another merle.

Can White Merle French Bulldogs exist?

No, White Merle French Bulldogs do not exist. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment in the coat, resulting in variations of color and pattern, but it does not produce a completely white coat. Merle French Bulldogs may have white markings or patches in their coat, but they are not entirely white.

What is a Tweed Merle French Bulldog?

A Tweed Merle French Bulldog refers to a specific variation of the merle coat pattern that resembles a tweed fabric. This pattern is characterized by a mix of darker and lighter patches, creating a textured appearance on the dog’s coat.

Merle Variation	Example	Description
Black Merle	^{Source: @Roberto_TheFrenchie}	Predominantly black with gray and white mottling.
Black & Tan Merle	^{Source: @Otis.GC}	Mostly black and tan, khaki, or camel.
Cocoa Merle	^{Source: @Leavis_The_Frenchie}	Shades of brown and tan.
Blue Merle	^{Source: @JamesBlueMerle}	Mostly blue (cool gray shades).
Blue & Black Merle	^{Source: @GokuMerleDog}	Predominantly blue with black and white mottling.
Blue & Tan Merle	^{Source:@Oreo_ThunderBoltFrenchies}	Mostly blue with tan, khaki, camel, and white mottling.
Lilac Merle	^{Source: @ChiquitoTito_Frenchie}	Lilac merle is basically the “pastel” version of the regular black merle.
Red Merle	^{Source: @LeoLeoGoodBoy}	Primarily red with black or brown mottling.
Isabella Merle	^{Source: @IsabellaMerleFrenchie}	An even further “diluted” version of the lilac merle.
Fluffy Merle	^{Source: @SlaterTheFluffyMerle}	Fluffy merle Frenchies can be any color variation, and carry two copies of the long-hair gene.
Tri Merle	^{Source:@Lola.The.French.Bulldog}	Mottled black, blue, and red.