Your Guide to the Beautiful Blue Merle Australian Shepherd

With their captivating marbled coats in shades of charcoal, black and gray, Blue Merle Australian Shepherds never fail to attract admiring looks wherever they go. The eye-catching blue merle coat pattern is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and popular features of the Australian Shepherd breed. This article provides an in-depth look at blue merle Australian Shepherds – their genetics, common markings, temperament, health considerations, finding a quality breeder, and why these colorful canines make such outstanding companions.

What Makes the Blue Merle Australian Shepherd Coat Color So Special?

Australian Shepherds demonstrate remarkable diversity in coat colors and patterns. But no coat captivates quite like the distinctive blue merle. Produced by the dominant merle coat color gene, blue merle Australian Shepherds have a signature marbled pattern of gray, black, silver and white. Intense yet elegant, this vibrant merle pattern never fails to impress.

On top of their dazzling blue merle coats, some blue merle Aussies also sport attractive tan points on the eyebrows, cheeks, chest and legs, which provide an extra splash of color. Blue Merle Australian Shepherds occasionally display small flecks of copper as well. But the most identifiable features are those mesmerizing patches of blue-gray.

Unlike the similar red merle coat, the blue merle Australian Shepherd lacks red pigment. Instead, modifying genes like the black (B) locus and tan point (at) locus interact with the merle (M) to produce the cool hues. It’s a stunning combination resulting in a coat that resembles a stormy evening sky. The blue merle is surely one of the most photogenic of the Australian Shepherd colors.

The Genetics Behind Blue Merle Australian Shepherd Coats

To understand what gives Australian Shepherds their signature blue merle coats, we must dive into coat color genetics. In Australian Shepherds, several genes are responsible for producing different pigments and patterns:

The B gene produces black pigment across the body when present. Solid black coats require BB or Bb.
The E gene allows for the expression of red/yellow pigment if present as ee. Solid black tri requires EE or Ee.
The M gene results in merle patterning of black pigment when present as Mm. No merle results if mm.
The A gene produces tan points in dogs when present as ay or at. Lack of tan occurs when aa.

In blue merle Australian Shepherds, the interaction of these genes produces a vivid blue-gray marbled coat:

The M merle gene causes the signature patches and marbling by diluting solid black into gray shades.
Having E prevents the coat from appearing red like a red merle. E masks the phaeomelanin red pigment.
The B gene allows for solid black coat distribution.
A tan can lighten small areas producing tan points.

So in summary, the blue merle coat arises from having both E and B genes present alongside a single M merle gene. This recipe results in a beautifully marbled black, gray, silver, and white coat. Minor tan point genes add appealing accents. It’s a testament to the wondrous diversity of coat colors made possible through genetic inheritance.

Unique Attributes of the Blue Merle Australian Shepherd Coat

The blue merle coat has some distinctive features that set it apart from other Australian Shepherd colors:

Shades range from light silvery blue to dark charcoal gray with vivid black spotting distributed throughout. No two blue merle coats are exactly alike.
Darker grey patches are often concentrated around the body and back while lighter gray appears on the neck, legs and underside. The contrast is visually striking.
Black spotting mixed amidst the marbling adds depth. Spots outlined in tan may acquire a purple-gray hue.
White flashes typically occur on the feet, chest, face and collar region. The white contrasts sharply against the darker colors.
The overall coloring has a cool undertone compared to warm red merles. Yet the vibrancy still corgasm from the interspersed black spotting.
The blue merle coat color may be accompanied by tan points or copper trim but lacks the phaeomelanin-enriched red hues.

Whether dressed in various shades of stormy grays or infused with bold ebony spots, blue merle Australian Shepherd coats showcase the breed’s exemplary diversity of dazzling color patterns made possible by genetics.

Common Markings Seen on Blue Merle Australian Shepherds

While the hallmark of the blue merle Australian Shepherd is their bold marbled gray, black and white coat, these Aussies also frequently display attractive secondary facial and body markings:

Tan points – Light tan markings on the muzzle, eyebrows, chest and lower legs. Tan points add warmer tones to contrast the cooler merling.
White collar – Bright white neck rings and chest blazes are common. These white markings frame the face elegantly.
White stockings – White fur often extends up the front and/or back legs. Coloring just the feet is also seen.
Merling on head – Though solid heads occur, blue-gray patching on the head and ears is frequent. It provides added flash.
Eye patches – Some blue merles have a mask of dark fur surrounding one or both eyes. This bold facial marking is quite striking.
Copper kiss markings – Small flecks of copper on the cheeks, temples or forehead sometimes occur as a reddish accent.
Solid black tail tip – The tail tip is occasionally completely colored rather than having merling.

These associated facial and body markings paired with the signature marbled coat produces stunningly patterned blue merle Australian Shepherds with boundless visual appeal.

Are There Any Disqualifying Markings?

Breed standards dictate that blue merle Australian Shepherds should adhere to some coloration guidelines to represent ideal Aussie traits. Certain markings or excessive white are considered faults or disqualifications in conformation showing and breeding dogs. These include:

Absent or minimal merle – Little to no visible merling is heavily penalized. Judges expect prominent marbled patches.
Over 25% white body splashes – Excessive white resembling a Collie disqualifies blue merles from breeding.
Complete lack of tan or copper – Blue merles should present at least small tan/copper accents on the face, legs and/or under the tail.
Solid black patches amid merling – Large sections of unbroken black are atypical of blue merles. Some black spotting is desired though.

Adhering to these qualifications ensures blue merle Australian Shepherds express their trademark vibrant merle coats within standards dictating excellence for the breed.

Will Blue Merle Australian Shepherd Puppies Change Color?

Many Australian Shepherd puppies undergo some maturing and coat changes during their first 12-24 months before achieving their final adult coloration. Common shifts seen in blue merle Aussie pups include:

Deepening and intensification of black spotting against the lighter merling as mature hairs grow in.
Expansion of the size and definition of individual gray or black patches within the merle as juvenile fur is replaced.
Lightening of cryptic merles who appear almost solid at birth yet develop bolder patchwork patterns later.
Fading of the vibrancy and delineation of merling in dogs with increased white spotting genes, leaving them with a more washed-out appearance.
The addition of black hairs overlaying the back, head and tail as adolescent dogs transition to adult coats, darkening and enriching the overall merle.

While blue merle puppy coats transform somewhat, Australian Shepherds remain the same color family they are born into. Solid reds won’t suddenly become blue merles. But maturation does adjust merle richness. Genetics, seasons, hormones and nutrition all interplay to impact final adult presentation.

Are All Blue Merle Australian Shepherds the Same?

There is significant diversity found among blue merle Australian Shepherds regarding:

Merle pattern – The size, shape and distribution of gray patches varies widely. No two blue merle coats appear identical.
Color intensity – Shades range from pale icy grays to deep charcoal with all gradients in between. Lavender gray merling is also seen.
Pigment density – The concentration of black spotting across the marbled coat can be sparse through to heavy speckling. Solid heads also occur.
Secondary markings – Presence, size and hue of tan points or white points create further distinct looks.
Eye color – Eye color does not always correspond to coat color with Aussies. Blue and brown eyes are possible on blue merles.

So while the basic blue merle pattern remains constant, these variables mean no two blue merled Australian Shepherds ever look exactly alike! The randomness inherent in their marbled inheritance ensures endless stunning presentations.

The Temperament of Blue Merle Australian Shepherds

Behind their captivating coats, blue merle Australian Shepherds share the same desirable personality traits prevalent across all well-bred Aussies. These include:

High intelligence – Australian Shepherds rank among the brightest dogs. Their advanced aptitude for learning and willingness to work with people facilitates training.
Loyalty – Blue merle Aussies form close bonds with their owners. They become devoted, constant companions. Proper socialization nurtures their ability to also accept strangers appropriately.
Trainability – This biddable breed aims to please, making them responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. They enjoy having a job to do.
Energy – With their high energy heritage as ranch dogs, most Australian Shepherds need 45-90 minutes of daily vigorous exercise along with mental stimulation. Aussies love staying occupied.
Protectiveness – Wary of potential threats, Australian Shepherds act as alert watchdogs and may display reserved behavior with strangers. Their guarding instincts are strong.
Prey drive – Aussies may instinctively try to herd children or other pets through nipping, circling and stalking postures. Redirecting these habits is necessary.

If well socialized, the loyal, high-drive blue Merle Australian Shepherd temperament produces wonderful family members and working dogs. Their expressive nature requires an engaging environment.

Are Blue Merles Prone to Any Health Issues?

All dogs have some degree of health risks based on breed traits. Certain inherited conditions are seen more often in Australian Shepherds carrying merle coat color genes, including blue merles. Reputable breeders screen breeding dogs. Issues to be aware of include:

Deafness – Congenital inherited deafness is more common in merled dogs. BAER testing dogs before breeding helps lower deaf puppy risk.
Blindness – Collie Eye Anomaly can lead to blindness in Aussies later in life. Annual eye exams by a canine ophthalmologist are recommended for early diagnosis and treatment.
Sun sensitivity – Merles often sunburn easier. Limit time outdoors mid-day and provide shade. White merle areas are especially vulnerable.
Heat sensitivity – Monitoring for signs of overheating is important. Their thick double coat doesn’t dissipate heat as readily.
Megaesophagus – A muscle disorder preventing proper swallowing and digestion more frequently seen affecting merles.

Thankfully, reputable breeders perform all recommended health testing to breed merle Aussies ethically and minimize these risks. Overall, the breed is still relatively hearty.

Finding a Quality Blue Merle Australian Shepherd Breeder

Locating responsible, conscientious Australian Shepherd breeders is important when searching for a blue merle pup. Signs of an ethical breeder to look for include:

Complete all recommended health testing on breeding dogs. Hips, elbows, eyes, DNA panels, and thyroid should be evaluated by specialists and deemed low risk.
Focusing on health, stable temperament and Aussie breed hallmarks rather than trendy colors or profit.
Provide plenty of hands-on socialization and enrichment from birth for well-adjusted puppies.
Demonstrating deep knowledge of the breed and commitment to its future.
Asking interested buyers extensive questions to ensure compatibility with the energy and needs of Australian Shepherds.
Exhibiting concern about where their puppies are placed. They should guarantee the return of any dog unable to stay in their home.

A dedicated breeder who titles and proves their Australian Shepherds in conformation, sports or working events invests tremendous time, effort and care into improving the breed. Such a breeder deserves your support.

Find Your Perfect Blue Merle Aussie

The dazzling blue merle coat pattern grabs eyes; but the devoted, energetic personality of Australian Shepherds grabs hearts. This versatile herding breed flourishes when provided with proper training, vigorous daily exercise, and participates in engaging activities with their owner. If this sounds like your ideal dog, connect with an Australian Shepherd breeder with available blue merle pups. Prepare for a loyal canine companion who will bring both beauty and fun into your life for many years to come. Their stunning coats and winning dispositions explain why Australian Shepherds like the blue merle, remain so beloved worldwide.