Understanding Merle Bernedoodles and Their Genetics

Merle Bernedoodles are a unique and fascinating breed, but understanding their genetics can be a bit complex. Merle is a coat pattern that can occur in Bernedoodles, and it's caused by a specific genetic variation.

This variation affects the production of the pigment responsible for the dog's coat color, resulting in a mottled or patchy appearance. The merle pattern can be expressed in a variety of ways, from a subtle mottling to a more dramatic patchwork effect.

The genetics of Merle Bernedoodles are influenced by the interaction of multiple genes, including the ones responsible for the Bernese Mountain Dog's coat color. The merle gene is recessive, meaning that a dog needs to inherit two copies of the gene (one from each parent) to express the merle pattern.

The combination of the merle gene with other genes can result in a range of coat colors and patterns, including the characteristic merle coat.

Choosing a Merle Bernedoodle requires some research and due diligence. You can start by searching online and reading reviews to learn about others' experiences with a breeder.

It's essential to check a breeder's medical paperwork and read their reviews before making a purchase. This will give you an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.

Responsible breeders invest heavily in the health and development of their pups, striving to raise perfect companion dogs and family pets. They should be willing to share this information with you.

You should also view the potential Merle Bernedoodle's parents and ask to see their medical history to ensure they seem healthy and well cared for. This will give you an idea of the dog's genetic background.

Visiting the breeding facility is a great way to get a sense of the breeder's operation. Look for a clean and organized facility, and ask questions to get a sense of the breeder's experience and knowledge.

Consider contacting your network to find out if any of your friends or associates have dealt with reputable breeders in your area. They may be able to provide valuable recommendations.

The Merle locus, also known as the M locus, is responsible for the merle coat color in Bernedoodles. This genetic trait is caused by a mutation in the PMEL gene.

The Merle locus is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means that a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to express the merle coat color. This is a key point to understand when considering breeding or purchasing a Merle Bernedoodle.

The mutation that causes the Merle locus is a specific insertion and duplication of DNA in the PMEL gene, located on chromosome 10. This genetic change results in the characteristic mottled or patchy coat color associated with the Merle locus.

Here's a breakdown of the genetic mutation that causes the Merle locus:

The M Locus is a genetic factor that plays a crucial role in determining the merle coat color in Bernedoodles. It's located on chromosome 10.

The M Locus is also known as the merle locus, and it affects the PMEL gene. This gene is responsible for the production of a protein that helps to create the merle coat pattern.

The M Locus is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning that a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to express the merle coat color. This is important to understand when considering breeding Bernedoodles.

A mutation in the M Locus involves a ~253 bp insertion and a 15 bp duplication of the sequence TAGGCGAAGACTTCT. This specific mutation is found on chromosome 10 at the coordinates chr10:292837-292838 and chr10:292838-292852.

The M Locus affects all breeds, not just Bernedoodles. This means that any dog, regardless of its breed or ancestry, can be a carrier of the merle gene if it has the M Locus mutation.

Meet Jaguar, a stunning Phantom Merle Bernedoodle puppy. She's one of the beautiful F1b Bernedoodle puppies born on December 6th, 2023, to parents Suki and Winston.

Jaguar has an amazing Phantom merle coat with heavy merle markings and non-fading tan points. Her non-shedding coat will have loose curls which are easy to brush through.

This lovely girl is expected to grow to be a nice medium size, weighing between 40-50 lbs. Her parents' sizes and past litters' weights make this estimate a reasonable one.

Jaguar is ready to go to her forever home on January 31st, 2024. If you're interested in bringing her home, be prepared for a price of $2750* - and don't forget to factor in sales tax.

*Price does not include sales tax.