Meet the Blue Merle Pomeranian: A Rare and Stunning Little Companion
A blue merle Pomeranian is a unique crossbreed, showing rare blue-gray swirls with marbled coat and blue eyes. In contrast to classic Pomeranians, they are color bred due to the merle gene and require special breeders due to potential health problems. They are amazing and energetic family members when cared for and socialized appropriately.
Introduction
The blue merle Pomeranian is perhaps one of the rarest variations of this breed, and one of the most stunning too, with her coat of bluish silvery marbling over gray and black patches, she is sure to make heads turn. Blue merles are an extraordinary sight compared to the typical orange and cream Pomeranians. They appear as miniature foxes with clouds and ink over them, which is the reason why they are loved dearly by those with a penchant for unusual dog coloration.
In addition to the merle coat, Pomeranians are special of their intricate colorations. They maintain a classic Pom’s playful personality, and with the addition of blue merle, they suddenly become mesmerizing magical creatures. They are full of life, loving, and incredibly bold for their size.
If you are looking for the distinctions of this color, or why it is so sought after by breeders and owners alike, this guide will take you through their history, care, costs, and everything in between so you can make an informed decision about whether a blue merle Pom is the right one for you.
Origin and History
A unique change in the PMEL gene creates the marbled merle pattern and creates the mottled blue-gray patches many people see on a blue merle Pomeranian. Also, the merle-SINE insertion, along with the variable poly(A) tail, controls the strength of a pattern, which explains everything from a faintly visible merle coat to a fully pronounced and showy coat.
Read about the PMEL genes –>PMEL Genes and Merle in the domestic dogs
Blue merle was not a part of the Pomeranian coat colors in the past. Older records of the breed are described as cream, orange, black, and white. The merle pattern on a Pomeranian was brought on from careful crossbreeding and selection over the past few decades, and not from the ancient Spitz stock. It seemed like modern breeders were trying to breed for unexpected merle outcomes because that is when the outcomes were so common.
This is the reason why merle breeders have to depend on the genetic testing and pedigree records to find out how that trait entered a bloodline.
Quick Facts
Appearance and Characteristics
Blue merle Pomeranians have a unique coat with blue-gray, black, and silver colors, and the color patterns are unique to each dog. It is also characteristic of some blue Pomeranians to have speckles of color on the nose or paw pads.
- Eye Color: Some have blue eyes while others have marble eyes; some may even have one blue and one brown eye (heterochromia).
- Size: Adult blue merle Pomeranians weigh between 3–7 lbs (1.4–3.2 kg) and stand 6–7 inches tall.
- Build: Stout, fox-faced, with small upright ears, and a plumed tail that arches over the back.
- Coat Type: A double coat; fluffy warm inner layer, then a long, protective outer layer.
- Movement & Posture: Strong, stilted, and robust with a confident posture, characteristic of the breed.
As with other light-coated Pomeranians, the blue merle Pomeranian may have a slight increase in sun sensitivity due to the light pigmentation in some areas of the coat. A regular grooming routine is crucial to avoid the extra time needed to deepp vijwax in the coat, and the coat easily traps and tangles dirt in the undercoat. This is one of the rarest colors a Pomeranian can have, and coupled with the classic traits of the Pomeranian, makes them stand out in the toy breed world.
Genetics of the Blue Merle Pattern
Mutated PMEL genes produce the merle pattern by SINE insertions which partially dilutes the dark pigment and scatters it through the coat. These genes cause the blue merle Pomeranian s distinctive blue, silver, and gray coat. Subtle (cryptic) versus bold, dramatic coats are merles of different strengths, which is how the the length of the poly(A) tail explains variable recessive traits.
The menderian outcomes of breeding are the same in this case. A merle coupled with the non merle parent will yield 50% puppies with Pomeranian merles. However, merle-to merle (Mm x Mm) pairings are problematic due to the risk of double merle inheritance (MM) whose traits include partial hearing, deficient site (microphthalmia) and lack of pigmentation. These responsible breeders are confirmed through genetic health screening and double merle pairs are avoided.
The merle gene can also interact with other coat modifiers. For example the pairing with a parti color Pomeranian could create the blue merle parti variants and even the hidden or cryptic merle pattern which can surprise even the most expert breeders. Experienced breeders should not be baffled by genetic double merles, because other than color patterns, the only way to track them is through DNA testing.
Health Issues
The health issues of blue merle Pomeranians closely resemble those of standard Pomeranians, although the merle gene does add some additional issues. The biggest concern is double merle inheritance, which can cause severe eye and hearing impairment. These puppies, which inherit two merle genes (MM), may develop microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes), malformed pupils, or even blindness. It is often recommended that puppies of merle lineage undergo BAER hearing tests to determine the extent of their hearing loss, which may be partial or total.
Due to the loss of pigmentation that accompanies their merle genes, they may also be sensitive or prone to severe sunburn and, in rare instances, “color dilution alopecia”, a condition marked by thinning hair or an underlying rash. In addition to the aforementioned problems, dab t-cubed Pomeranians also prone to the breed-wide issues of patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, and dental overcrowding. These issues can be minimized by maintaining a healthy body weight, performing routine nail trimming, and having regular health assessments.
To protect the merle’s health condition, responsible breeders, prior to mating, will opt for molecular health testing and merle-to-merle mating will be avoided at all costs. It is the responsibility of new owners to verify the health certificates and screening results prior to the purchase of blue merle Pomeranian puppies. Proper diet, frequent grooming, and limited exposure to sunlight will allow these small dogs to remain active and healthy for many years.
Recognition and Breed Standards
Blue merle Pomeranians are truly gorgeous, although they sit in a limbo in terms of recognition. Core registries, such as the American Kennel Club, and other breed clubs recognize merle as a color pattern, but some still argue whether it falls within the historic Pomeranian colors. The AKC, as most other clubs, considers merle a recognized pattern in the registry, but there may be some judging Merle Pomeranians in a dog show who examine the markings very closely and may disqualify the dog for conformation for having irregular markings or excessive white.
Much modern enthusiasts and breeders of Pomeranians tend to appreciate the merle look in Pomeranians as a reflection of the changing dog-merchandising world. The social networks and the internet have done the rest and the blue merle has been very popular, even in the most conservative clubs. Many breeders of merle Pomeranians are now being presented in the conformation ring for showing and working dogs, along with Pomeranians, on the condition that they are properly bred and have the required temperament.
Since the rules differ from club to club and country to country, possible buyers should look into the regulations of specific registries to avoid difficulties in showing and breeding a Pomaranian blue merle. Breed standard changes should be constantly checked to ensure that the dog’s special colors are more celebrated rather than frowned upon.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of the blue merle Pomeranian isn’t difficult, but the double coat and delicate pigmentation do need attentive care.
- Grooming: Use a slicker brush on the undercoat and a pin brush for finishing. Matting and Tangling should be avoided by brushing them 2-3 times a week. Their mesmerizing and marbled colors will stay vibrant with a gentle and safe canine shampoo each month. Ears should be regularly cleaned, and infections should be avoided by trimming the nails.
- Feeding and Wellness: Diet geared towards gadget breeds is essential which balances and mixes kibble with raw meat. It is vital to control the portions as Pommeranians are small and do tend to gain weight. Routine vet examinations, dental cleaning, and genetic health screenings should be included as well, especially for merle descendants.
- Exercise: Indoor play times and energetic short walks with bursts are sufficent to meet the needed activity.
- Sensitivity: merle which are faint can be prone to sunburn. Sunscreen for canines can be used.
- General Wellness: Keeping rigid time schedules of grooming, feeding, and playing is essential. Nurturing them creates a fond schedule which more than helps keep their exquisite fur feels as good as it looks.
Breeding and Ethical Practices
Breeding Pomeranians of blue merle is an art that requires focus, a lot of openness, and profound morality. To avoid having unhealthy puppies and to maintain the integrity of the breed, responsible breeders adhere to the outlined practices in the above listed best practices:
✨ Avoid Double Merle Pairings – Never breed two merles together. The double merle inheritance is a genetic condition where two copies of the merle allele (MM) is associated with an array of anatomical and physiological abnormalities such as deafness, blindness, and lack of pigment. The best alternative is a merle (Mm) and a solid (mm) partner.
🧬 Genetic Testing & Health Screening – DNA tests to trace invisible merle patterns and eliminate any condition that is passed down are invaluable. This testing eliminates double merles and helps any bloodlines become healthier.
🏆 Transparency with Buyers – Pedigrees and test results along with records of puppies care should be freely provided. Ethical breeders alert prospective owners about the needed grooming, exercise, and other merle specific things.
🤝 Work with Reputable Networks – For guidance and to keep up to date with the breed standards, work with well established clubs and local Pomeranian groups. Refrain from volume breeding and “designer” marketing that prioritizes profit above the welfare of the animals.
🐾 The Importance of Socialization for Puppies – Give puppies the chance to hear different sounds and be around people as well as touched softly and handled to aid them gain confidence. The end result provides you with adult dogs with robust confidence that are well adjusted mentally and socially to meet the new life changes that a new home will provide them.
Specialized Focus` - `Health Protection` - `Market Reputation
The evidence the blue merle Pomeranian puppies are well taken of is the fact the breed reputation is not lost as social responsibility is taken very seriously in the case of the popularity of the breed.
The `availability` and `cost` factors along with rarity and the blue merle Pomeranian are very well known facts that determine the price of the puppy. The puppies charge is very high because of the unique blue merle pattern and the occasional blue eyes. Having a meticulous breeding process is also a contributing factor to the puppies being on high demand.
- The Process of breeding a healthy merle is rather complex. The merle breed must be paired with a non merle breed, this progeny is called a litter. The puppies in this litter are very rare.
- The blue merle Pomeranian price is about 2000 to 5000 americans dollars. The show quality puppies and puppies that are in a champion line are above 6000 american dollars. In different parts of Europe and Asia, the price changes based on the breeder’s reputation, costs to import the puppy, and the demand in the country.
- The price of Puppies are impacted by the quality of the coat, the breed of the puppy, eye color, and also the experience and reputation of the breeder. Designer puppies are very high in demand because of social media trends and exposure.
Market Availability: Reputable breeders in the U.S., UK, and Australia have been reported to have a region-specific market, but a waiting list is necessary.
In other countries that have stricter regulations from the kennel club, the Merle line is even more difficult to find.
The market price of a Merle Pomeranian tends to attract backyard breeders, and they become Pomeranian suffering from serious health defects. Prospective owners must contact breeders for health screening paperwork of the Pomeranians. Must reference club reviews and member NCCD affiliation as well.
The Temperament of Merle Pomeranians and their Living Arrangements
Blue Merle Pomeranians do have the classic blue merle Pomeranian trait of a spiky coat. They have a great personality that many Pomeranians would like to have.
Very curious and always on the tell, which earns them the title ‘some winning problem cockers of the century.’ They do solve problems, and they also do like to play piano, and they really do appreciate attention. They do have an invigorating character, and that is one of the many reasons that they are very easy for owners and their families to have.
They also tend to get easily overstimulated, and for this reason, they are appreciated. During these times, it is important for owners to help them socialize for the first time to help them control their over-congestion.
In the household, the bond that is developed between the family and these little ‘tyrants’ is very important. Passionate, but without a leash, they tend to go on little ‘excitement’ walks. They are also more than happy to relax on the couch as a ‘lap dog.’ Basic to the family members, they are also great travel companions and help us run small errands.
Most often dogs like these tend to support other dogs without any prior meeting, but these kinds of dogs have control and may consider themselves in charge. Poms and youngsters must be supervised more than regularly due to the risk of injury the Pom may get, as the Pomeranian is small in size.
Even though full-grown blue merle Pomeranians may slow down due to aging, they continue to enjoy their playfulness into their golden years. To maintain physical and mental health, they must undergo routine physical exams, training, and mental exercises. The blue merle Pomeranian may offer an imbalance of personality to their owner, but the odd offset is worth it to receive their sparkling and steadfast affection, which fully illuminates any and every aspect of one’s life.
Conclusion
To most people, the Blue Merle Pomeranian features a blue merle coat with diverse eye colors, which punctuates the coat with swirls of orange. Their lustrous coat and sparkling personality turn them into a moving entity of art. The blue merle Pomeranian’s shy energy paradoxically highlights their functionality and quiet nature. They require thoughtful care as well as responsible breeding, which makes them rare.
In the eyes of other people, there may be tarnishes in their appearance, but spirit is of absolute importance. They possess the ability to be cuddled and walked in open spaces, which makes them adaptable to any accommodation, as long as there is adequate stimulation. Their swirls, charm, and deceiving colors are proof of their playfulness as well as their origin, health, and breed. These Kahmals, a blue merle Pom, a breed for precise owners, offer an eternity of warmth and joy.
FAQs
Indeed, blue merle Pomeranians are quite rare. Merle can be hard to find in Pomeranians, and “blue” (a diluted black) is even more rare. So true blue merle Pomeranian are in high demand and are quite rare across the globe.
Typically, a blue merle Pomeranian will go for a few thousand dollars (ranging from $2000-$5000 or in special cases, $4000-$6000+ for rare, show-quality or champion line pups). Prices vary a lot, and will depend on the breeder’s health, the pup’s eyes, lineage, health testing, the breeder’s reputation and the pup’s rarity.
Yes. Pomeranians can have blue eyes, but they are quite uncommon. Most blue-eyed Pomeranians are merle Pomeranians or Pomeranians with other pigments, but blue eyes on Pomeranians are rare. Blue eyes on Pomeranians can be considered strange sometimes, and merit special vet attention due to the risks associated with pigment and sensory things.
Blue merle pomeranian are generally between the weight of 3 to 7 pounds and have a height between 6 to 7 inches. This weight and height is regarded as the usual weight and height for pomeranians.
The average lifespan for the blue merle pomeranian is between 12 to 16 years, whereas some may live much longer. As long as the proper care is taken, the dog is more likely to live a longer life. Other factors such as genetics, vet care, diet and merle related health issues are taken into consideration when determining the life span of the dog.
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