You’ve probably heard of a Bernedoodle, but have you ever heard of a Merle Bernedoodle?
Bernedoodles not only come in a variety of sizes, but they come in a range of colors too. This is because the Bernese Mountain Dog is “Tri Color”, meaning that its coat features black, white, and tan. And Poodles come in pretty much any color imaginable, including black, white, apricot, blue, fawn, red, silver, sable, gray, and cream.
So, what exactly is a Merle Bernedoodle, and how did this color come about?
Quick Facts: Merle Bernedoodle
- Parents: Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog
- Also known as: Merle Doodle, Merle Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Mix
- Sizes: Toy/Micro, Mini, Standard (25 – 35 kg or 55 – 95 lbs)
- Colors: Blue Merle, Tri Color Merle, Red Merle, Black Merle, Chocolate/Brown Merle, Tuxedo Merle, Sable Merle, Parti Merle, Phantom Merle
- Coat Type: Wavy, Curly, or Straight
- Estimated Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
- Hypoallergenic: Yes!
What is a Merle Bernedoodle?
A Merle Bernedoodle is a cross between a Merle Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Merle is a coat color pattern that can occur in both dogs and cats, and it’s characterized by random patches of darker pigment. How long do they live for?
So, a Merle Bernedoodle will have the recognizable tri-color markings of a Bernedoodle, but with an added Merle twist. These dogs are truly unique, and no two will look exactly alike.
How Did The Merle Color Pattern Come About?
The Merle color pattern is caused by a mutation in the melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor gene (MC1R). This gene is responsible for the production of black and brown pigment in animals.
A Merle Bernedoodle carries a gene that dilutes the colors on its coat with white, making this breed appear to have a creamier coat color. This breed may have inherited various color markings from either parent, but it also carries the gene that will dilute these colors to a lighter, creamier hue.
The Merle gene can also impact a dog’s eye color too. Some Bernedoodles have the most startling pale blue eyes due to this mutation! Or they may have one blue eye and one brown eye.
Merle Bernedoodle Size
Related: Full Grown Bernedoodle + Other Sizes Explained
Because Bernedoodles come in different sizes due to their Poodle component, it also means that it is possible to have a Merle Mini Bernedoodle, or a Standard or Toy/Micro Merle version. So, if you love the look of a Merle dog but want one that is a specific size, you have options.
Standard Merle Bernedoodle Size
The Standard Merle Bernedoodle will be the biggest of the three. They will typically weigh between 65 to 95 pounds and stand 23 to 29 inches tall at the shoulder.
Mini Merle Bernedoodle Size
A Mini Merle Bernedoodle is a cross between a Mini Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, and they will be smaller than the Standard version of this breed. They typically weigh anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds and stand 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
Toy/Micro Merle Bernedoodle Size
The Toy or Micro Merle Bernedoodle is the smallest size, and as such, they are also the most popular size. They weigh between 6 and 20 pounds and stand 10 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder.
Merle Bernedoodle Color Options
Merle Bernedoodles can have a wide range of color combinations due to their Merle coat pattern. They may have patches of black, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, or white on their coat. And because they are tri-colored dogs, they will also have the distinctive markings of a Bernese Mountain Dog too.
Blue Merle Bernedoodles
A Blue Merle Bernedoodle has a dilute gene that’s affected the black marking in its coat. Blue Merle is expressed as a gorgeous grayish-blue color, and one that is highly desirable for enthusiasts of the breed.
But Blue Merle is not the only kind of Merle. The Merle gene can also soften the tan of the Bernese Mountain Dog into a pretty peachy color. You can even get a Brown Merle Bernedoodle, with a coat that looks like milk chocolate.
There are three different sizes of this breed: Standard Blue Merle Bernedoodle, Mini Blue Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Blue Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Blue Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Blue Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Blue Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Blue Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Merle Tri Color Bernedoodles
This term is simply another, more detailed way of describing a Merle Bernedoodle.
This Tri Color feature of the Bernedoodle is due to the Bernese Mountain Dog part of the dog’s makeup. Bernese Mountain Dogs have very distinct markings. They have black ears and backs, white tummies, faces, paws and tail tips, and tan jowls, ‘eyebrows’ and legs. A tri-colored Bernedoodle will end up looking very similar!
There are three different sizes of a Merle Tri Color Bernedoodle: Standard Merle Tri Color Bernedoodle, Mini Merle Tri Color Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Merle Tri Color Bernedoodle.
So, if you can imagine white paint being brushed over the coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog, then this is how we end up with the glorious Merle Tri Color coat markings that some Bernedoodles puppies are born with!
Red Merle Bernedoodle
Red Merle is a very striking coat color, and one that is relatively rare in the Merle Bernedoodle world. This coloring will have patches of red, black, and white on their coat.
There are three different sizes of this coloring: Standard Red Merle Bernedoodle, Mini Red Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Red Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Red Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Red Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Red Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Red Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Black Merle Bernedoodle
A Black Merle Bernedoodle is a Merle Bernedoodle that has been combined with a black-coated dog. This can be either a Miniature Poodle or a Labrador Retriever, but most breeders prefer to use the Miniature Poodle for this particular cross.
The Miniature Poodle brings the required Merle gene to the mix, while the Labrador Retriever provides the desired black coat color. The result is a dog with striking Merle markings on a black background.
When is a Black Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Black Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Black Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Black Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Chocolate Merle Bernedoodle / Brown Merle Bernedoodle
A Bernedoodle with a chocolate coat is a Bernedoodle that has been mixed with a chocolate-coated dog. The Miniature Poodle or Labrador Retriever can be used, but most breeders favor the Miniature Poodle for this cross.
The desired Chocolate Merle coloring in a Bernedoodle comes from mixing the Miniature Poodle (which has the required Merle gene) with the Labrador Retriever (whose coat is chocolate).
When is a Chocolate Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Chocolate Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Chocolate Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Chocolate Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle
The Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle is a very unique and stylish-looking dog. As the name suggests, they have a coat that is similar in color to a tuxedo. The main body of the Tuxedo Merle will be white with black patches, usually around the head and ears, and sometimes on the legs and tail.
There are three different sizes this coloring: Standard Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle, Mini Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Tuxedo Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Sable Merle Bernedoodle
The Sable Merle Bernedoodle is a unique and stylish-looking dog. As the name suggests, they have a coat that is similar in color to a sable. The main body of the Sable Merle will be white with black patches, usually around the head and ears, and sometimes on the legs and tail.
When creating a Sable Merle Bernedoodle, breeders will combine a sable-coated dog with a Merle Bernedoodle. The desired Sable Merle coloring in a Bernedoodle comes from mixing the sable-coated dog (which has the required Merle gene) with the Merle Bernedoodle (whose coat is black and white).
The result is a dog with striking Merle markings on a black background.
Sable Merles are usually smaller in size than other Merles, and can come in three different sizes: Standard Sable Merle Bernedoodle, Mini Sable Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Sable Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Sable Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
They are typically a Sable Merle Bernedoodle full grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Parti Merle Bernedoodle
The Parti Merle Bernedoodle is a mix of a Merle Bernedoodle and a parti poodle. The Parti Poodle is a poodle with two distinct colors in its coat, usually white and another color.
Breeders will combine a Parti Poodle with a Merle Bernedoodle to create this coloring. The need of the Parti Merle gene in a Bernedoodle is met by combining the Parti Poodle (which contains the required Merle gene) with the Merle Bernedoodle (whose coat is black and white).
The result is a dog with striking Merle markings on a white background.
Parti Merles are usually smaller in size than other Merles, and can come in three different sizes: Standard Parti Merle Bernedoodle, Miniature Parti Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Parti Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Parti Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Parti Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Miniature Parti Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Parti Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Phantom Merle Bernedoodle
Related: Phantom Bernedoodle: Quick Facts & Info
The Phantom Merle Bernedoodle is a beautiful and unique dog. As the name suggests, they have a coat that is similar in color to a phantom. The Phantom Merle will have patches of Merle coloring on a base coat of another color.
When creating a this coloring, breeders will combine a phantom-coated dog with a Merle Bernedoodle. The desired Phantom Merle coloring in a Bernedoodle comes from mixing the phantom-coated dog (which has the required Merle gene) with the Merle Bernedoodle (whose coat is black and white).
The result is a dog with striking Merle markings on a base coat of another color.
Phantom Merles can come in three different sizes: Standard Phantom Merle Bernedoodle, Mini Phantom Merle Bernedoodle, and Toy/Micro Phantom Merle Bernedoodle.
When is a Phantom Merle Bernedoodle full grown?
A Standard Phantom Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at around 12 to 18 months old. A Mini Phantom Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown at 8 to 12 months old. And a Toy/Micro Phantom Merle Bernedoodle will be fully grown by 6 to 8 months old.
Merle Bernedoodle Health
All Bernedoodles, regardless of their coat color, are prone to certain health conditions. These health conditions include Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Addison’s Disease, Epilepsy, and Cancer.
However, Merle Bernedoodles are especially prone to certain health conditions. These health conditions include Merle Pattern Blindness and Deafness, Demodectic Mange, and PRA-prcd (Progressive Retinal Atrophy).
Merle Pattern Blindness and Deafness
Merle pattern blindness and deafness is a condition that affects Merle-patterned dogs. Merle-patterned dogs have a Merle gene that causes their coat to have Merle markings.
The Merle gene is responsible for the Merle coloring, but it also increases the chances of a Merle-patterned dog being born blind or deaf. In fact, about 25% of all Merle-patterned dogs are born deaf or blind.
Demodectic Mange
Demodectic mange is a skin condition that is caused by a mite. The mite burrows into the skin and causes an intense itchiness. Demodectic mange is more common in Merle Bernedoodles than in other dogs.
PRA-prcd (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
PRA-prcd is a degenerative eye condition that affects Merle Bernedoodles. This condition causes the retina to slowly degenerate, and it eventually leads to blindness.
The best way to prevent health conditions in Merle Bernedoodles is to purchase from a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will have health tested their dogs and will be able to provide you with proof of health clearances.
Be sure to ask the breeder about the health of the parents and grandparents. If the breeder is unable to provide you with proof of health clearances, it is best to find a different breeder.
Merle Bernedoodle Temperament
Merle Bernedoodles are known for being intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dogs. They are also known for being good with children and other animals. These dogs are active dogs who need a lot of exercise.
Due to their intelligence, Merle Bernedoodles are easy to train. They excel in obedience training and agility training. They also make great therapy dogs and service dogs.
If you are looking for a loyal and affectionate dog who is also intelligent and easy to train, then a Merle Bernedoodle might be the right dog for you!
Merle Bernedoodle Price
The price of a Merle Bernedoodle will depend on the size, color, and breeder. This breed can range in price from $1,000 to $4,000.
Be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will be able to provide you with a healthy dog that fits your lifestyle.
Keep in mind that the price is not the only important factor. The most important factor is finding a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy dog.
What impacts the Merle Bernedoodle price?
Size: This breed comes in three different sizes—Standard, Mini, and Toy/Micro. Standard Merle Bernedoodles will be the most expensive, followed by Mini Merle Bernedoodles, and then Toy/Micro Merle Bernedoodles.
Color: Merle Bernedoodles can come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, silver, and brown. The most expensive colorings will be the rarer colors, such as blue and silver.
Breeder: The breeder you choose will also impact the price of your dog. Reputable breeders who health test their dogs and provide proof of health clearances will charge more for their puppies.
Be prepared to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000. The price will depend on the size, color, and breeder you choose.
Merle Bernedoodle Puppies
The Merle gene is actually a dilution of color, not an actual color itself. It’s believed that this mutation was a naturally occurring phenomenon in dogs that existed hundreds of years ago.
Puppies that have inherited the Merle gene may be born with a huge variety of markings. Some Merle Bernedoodle puppies will have the dilution over all of their colored areas, and some may only have it in patches.
You can see a gallery of these incredible variations in Bernedoodle puppies at Utah Bernedoodles.
How to Find a Merle Bernedoodle Puppy Breeder
If you’re interested in finding a Merle Bernedoodle puppy, your best bet is to contact a reputable breeder.
A responsible breeder will be able to answer any questions you have about the breed, and they will also be able to provide you with health clearances for the parents of the puppies.
When you contact a Merle Bernedoodle breeder, be sure to ask about the size, coat type, and color of the puppies that they have available. You will also want to inquire about the health and temperament of the parents, as this can give you some insight into what to expect from the puppies.
Be sure to visit the breeder’s facility before you commit to purchasing a puppy from them. This will allow you to see the conditions that the puppies are being raised in, and it will also give you a chance to meet the parents of the puppies.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to voice them to the breeder. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.
Take your time when choosing a breeder, and be sure to do your research. This will help you to find a breeder that you can trust, and it will also help to ensure that you end up with a healthy and happy Merle Bernedoodle puppy.
Health Guarantee
When you purchase a Merle Bernedoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, they will typically provide you with a health guarantee.
This guarantee will cover the puppy for any genetic health conditions that may arise. It’s important to note that this type of guarantee will not cover injuries or illnesses that are not genetic in nature.
Be sure to read over the health guarantee carefully before you purchase a Merle Bernedoodle puppy, and be sure that you understand what is and is not covered.
Testing
Merle Bernedoodle breeders should have their dogs genetic tested before they are bred.
The most important test for Merle Bernedoodles is the Merle Pattern Gene Mutation Test. This test will determine if a dog is carrying the Merle gene, and it will also help to predict what type of Merle pattern the dog will produce.
Other tests that breeders should have done include the OFA Hip Dysplasia Test, the OFA Elbow Dysplasia Test, and the CERF Eye Exam:
OFA Hip Displasia Test
This test is used to evaluate the hips for signs of dysplasia.
OFA Elbow Dysplasia Test
This test is used to evaluate the elbows for signs of dysplasia.
CERF Eye Exam
This test is used to evaluate the eyes for any potential problems.
These tests will help to ensure that the parents of the Merle Bernedoodle puppies are free of any genetic health conditions that could be passed down to the puppies.
Be sure to ask the breeder about the results of these tests before you purchase a Merle Bernedoodle puppy from them.
Rescuing a Merle Bernedoodle
If you’re interested in rescuing a Merle Bernedoodle, your best bet is to contact a Bernedoodle rescue organization.
Bernedoodle rescues are dedicated to placing unwanted or homeless Bernedoodles into loving homes. When you contact a Bernedoodle rescue, be sure to ask about the size, coat type, and color of the dogs that they have available.
You will also want to inquire about the health and temperament of the dogs, as this can give you some insight into what to expect from the dog.
Be sure to visit the rescue’s facility before you commit to adopting a dog from them. This will allow you to see the conditions that the dogs are being kept in, and it will also give you a chance to meet the dogs.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to voice them to the rescue. A reputable Bernedoodle rescue will be more than happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.
Bringing Home Your Bernedoodle Puppy
Puppy Proofing Your Home
Before you bring your Merle Bernedoodle puppy home, it’s important to puppy proof your home.
This means taking some time to remove any potential hazards that could injure your puppy. Some things that you will want to do include:
- Remove any poisonous plants from your home.
- Keep all medications and cleaning products out of reach.
- Put away any small objects that your puppy could choke on.
- Cover all electrical outlets.
- Keep all doors and windows closed.
- Make sure that your trash cans are inaccessible.
Puppy proofing your home will help to keep your dog safe, and it will also help to prevent any accidents from happening.
Puppy Training
It’s important to start training your Merle Bernedoodle puppy as soon as you bring them home.
The earlier you start, the easier it will be to train your puppy. Puppy training classes are a great way to socialize your puppy and to teach them the basic commands.
Some things that you will want to teach your Merle Bernedoodle include:
- Sit
- Stay
- Down
- Come
- Heel
Puppy training classes are typically 6 weeks long, and they are a great way to bond with your puppy.
If you are not able to take puppy training classes, there are many resources available that can help you to train your dog at home.
Crate Training
Crate training is an important part of potty training your Merle Bernedoodle puppy.
A crate will provide your puppy with a safe place to stay when you are not able to supervise them.
Crate training will also help to prevent accidents in your home, and it will help your puppy to learn how to hold their bladder for longer periods of time.
When crate training your dog, it’s important to start with short periods of time.
Your puppy should only be in their crate for short periods of time at first, and you should gradually increase the amount of time that they are in their crate as they get used to it.
It’s important to never leave your Merle Bernedoodle in their crate for more than a few hours at a time, as this can lead to boredom and destructive behavior.
Potty Training
Potty training is an important part of owning a Merle Bernedoodle.
The sooner you start potty training, the easier it will be. There are many different methods that you can use to potty train your puppy, but the most important thing is to be consistent.
Some things that you will want to keep in mind when potty training your dog include:
- Establish a regular potty schedule.
- Take your dog outside frequently.
- Be patient and consistent with your training.
- Use positive reinforcement when your dog goes potty in the correct spot.
Potty training can be a long and frustrating process, but it’s important to be patient and consistent.
If you start potty training early, and you are consistent with your training, your Merle Bernedoodle will learn quickly.
Feeding Your Merle Bernedoodle
When feeding your Merle Bernedoodle, it’s important to choose a high-quality food that is formulated for large breeds.
Large breed dogs have different nutritional needs than small breed dogs, and it’s important to make sure that your dog is getting the right nutrients.
You will also want to avoid giving your dog table scraps, as this can lead to obesity.
Merle Bernedoodles are active dogs, and they will need a high-quality food that is rich in protein and fat.
You should feed your dog two to three times per day, and you should always make sure that they have access to fresh water.
Grooming Your Merle Bernedoodle
Related: 5 Tips for Bernedoodle Coat Care
Merle Bernedoodles are high-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming.
They will need to be brushed daily, and they will also need to be trimmed every few weeks.
When grooming your dog, it’s important to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
You should avoid using harsh chemicals on your dog’s coat, as this can lead to skin irritation.
Merle Bernedoodles are also susceptible to ear infections, so it’s important to check their ears regularly and to clean them with a gentle cleanser.
Types of Shampoos and Conditioners for Merle Bernedoodles
There are many different types of shampoos and conditioners that you can use on your Merle Bernedoodle.
You should avoid using human shampoo and conditioner on your dog, as this can strip their coat of its natural oils.
Instead, you should use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner that is designed for sensitive skin.
Some good options include:
Oatmeal Shampoo: This type of shampoo is gentle and soothing for your dog’s skin. It will help to relieve itching and dryness, and it will leave their coat soft and shiny.
Conditioner: Conditioner is important for keeping your Merle Bernedoodle’s coat healthy and soft.
You should use a conditioner that is designed for sensitive skin, and you should avoid using human conditioner on your dog.
Some good options for conditioners include:
Leave-In Conditioner: This type of conditioner is designed to be left in your Merle Bernedoodle’s coat.
It will help to keep their coat healthy and soft, and it will also help to protect their skin from the sun.
Deep Conditioner: Deep conditioners are designed to be used once or twice a week.
They are perfect for dogs who have dry or damaged coats, and they will help to keep their coat healthy and soft.
Different brush types and how to use them
There are many different types of brushes that you can use on your Merle Bernedoodle.
The type of brush that you use will depend on your dog’s coat type.
If your dog has a short coat, you can use a slicker brush to remove tangles and mats.
If your dog has a long coat, you can use a pin brush or a wide-toothed comb to remove tangles and mats.
You should also use a de-shedding tool on your dog to remove any loose hair.
Brushing technique
It’s important to be gentle when brushing your Merle Bernedoodle.
You should avoid pulling on their coat, as this can lead to pain and discomfort.
Instead, you should brush in the direction of their hair growth.
If you come across a tangle or mat, you can use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove it.
If you need to use a de-shedding tool, you should be careful not to press too hard, as this can damage their skin.
Exercising Your Merle Bernedoodle
Merle Bernedoodles are high-energy dogs, and they will need plenty of exercise.
A daily walk is a great way to get your dog some exercise, but they will also enjoy playing fetch or going for a run.
Merle Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs, and they will quickly become bored if they are not given enough mental stimulation.
You can provide your dog with some mental stimulation by teaching them tricks or playing interactive games with them.
Here are 10 different ways you can exercise your dog:
- Take your dog for a walk.
- Play fetch with your dog.
- Go for a run with your dog.
- Let your dog play in the park.
- Teach your dog tricks.
- Feed your dog interactive food puzzles.
- Give your dog a Kong toy to chew on.
- Provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation.
- Invest in a good quality exercise ball for your dog.
- Take your dog swimming.
Breeding Merle Bernedoodles
Two dogs with the Merle gene should not be bred together. This is because there is an increased risk of deafness and blindness in their litter. You can learn more about this here.
To Sum it Up:
Merle Bernedoodles have their genetics to thank, as they have a specific gene that dilutes their fur colors to become more creamy and light in nature. Whether you’re choosing a Blue Merle variation, or a normal Tri Color Bernedoodle, your doodle will be an amazing (and good-looking) addition to the family!