Red Merle Pomeranian: Complete Guide and Care Tips

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Posted Oct 4, 2024

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Close-up of a Border Collie Red Merle Puppy with a Stick in the Mouth
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The Red Merle Pomeranian is a unique and stunning breed that's sure to capture your heart. They're a rare variation of the Pomeranian, with a distinctive merle pattern on their coat.

These dogs are born with a genetic trait that causes the irregular distribution of color, resulting in their striking appearance. The merle pattern can vary in intensity, but it always adds a touch of elegance to their already adorable face.

To care for a Red Merle Pomeranian, it's essential to provide regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick double coat.

Physical Characteristics

The Red Merle Pomeranian has a distinctive appearance. They usually have areas of the coat displaying a speckled appearance.

Their eyes are big and shiny, and they have brown noses and black paws. The merle gene causes blotchy color patches in a dog's coat, which can change the color of the skin around their paws and noses. They have a furry tail that curves around their body.

Here are the average physical characteristics of a Red Merle Pomeranian:

  • Height: 8 to 14 inches
  • Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
  • Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Their coat is thick and fluffy, with a soft undercoat and a longer outer coat.

Physical Appearance

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The Red Merle Pomeranian has a distinctive physical appearance. They usually have areas of the coat displaying a speckled appearance.

Their eyes are big and shiny, and they're black in color. Their noses are brown, and their paws are black. They have a furry tail that curves around their body.

Red Merle Pomeranians typically have erect ears and rounded apple heads. They are 8 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. Their average weight is between 3 to 7 pounds.

Their lifespan is between 12 to 16 years. Red Merle Pomeranians have double coats, with large hairs all around their body. The merle gene causes blotchy color patches in a dog's coat, which can change the color of the skin around their paws and noses.

Here are some key physical characteristics of the Red Merle Pomeranian:

Size

Merle Pomeranians are indeed small dogs, weighing between 3 to 7 pounds.

Their height ranges from 8 to 11 inches, which is quite compact.

Health and Care

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As a responsible owner of a Red Merle Pomeranian, you need to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. Hypoglycemia is one of the common health issues that Red Merle Pomeranians are prone to.

If you notice any symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as shakiness, seizures, or loss of coordination, you should immediately contact your vet for advice. Regular monitoring of your pet's blood sugar levels can help prevent this condition.

Red Merle Pomeranians are also at risk of developing cataracts, which can cause blindness. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.

In addition to cataracts, Red Merle Pomeranians can also experience Luxating Patella, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be painful and may require surgery to correct.

Allergies are another common health issue that Red Merle Pomeranians can suffer from. If you notice any signs of allergies, such as itching, scratching, or skin irritation, you should take your pet to the vet for advice.

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Red Merle Pomeranians are also at risk of developing Tracheal Collapse, a condition where the windpipe collapses, making it difficult for your pet to breathe. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.

Here is a list of common health issues that Red Merle Pomeranians are prone to:

  • Hypoglycemia
  • Cataracts
  • Luxating Patella
  • Tracheal Collapse
  • Allergies
  • Deafness
  • Blindness
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart Murmurs

Grooming

Grooming is a crucial part of owning a Red Merle Pomeranian. Regular brushing is very essential to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Brush your Red Merle Pomeranian's coat at least 3 to 4 times a week with a Slicker or Bristle Brush. This will help remove loose hair and prevent tangling.

Bathing your dog after every 6 to 8 weeks with a high-quality dog shampoo is a must. This will keep their coat clean and prevent skin irritation.

Trim your dog's nails if they are big, as overgrown nails can be painful for your dog. Brushing your dog's teeth on a daily basis with a dog toothpaste is also essential.

Cleaning your dog's ears can help prevent ear infections, so make sure to do this regularly.

Diet and Nutrition

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Red Merle Pomeranians need high-quality dog food that contains all the essential nutrients for a healthy life.

Their diet should include essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins to keep them thriving.

To prevent digestive problems, it's essential to monitor your dog's food intake and avoid overeating.

Here are some general feeding guidelines to keep in mind:

A high-protein diet is crucial for Red Merle Pomeranians, with at least 25% protein content.

Training and Behavior

Red Merle Pomeranians are highly intelligent dogs that are easy to train, but they can be stubborn by nature, so proper training is essential from a young age.

They thrive on positive reinforcement and consistency, and it's paramount to start training early to get the best results.

Red Merle Pomeranians can be wary of strangers and other animals, so socialization is crucial to help them feel comfortable in new situations.

They are also known to be vocal dogs, using their alert nature to communicate, and they can be quite shedders, so regular grooming is a must.

With proper training and socialization, Red Merle Pomeranians can make great watchdogs and form strong bonds with their owners and family members.

For another approach, see: Breeds of Red Dogs

Temperament

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Red Merle Pomeranians are very loving and intelligent dogs.

They are known for their unique bond that they make with their owner and other family members.

They are independent, friendly, active, and playful, making them a great fit for families with children.

They can be wary of unknown people and other animals, so socialization is key.

They are quite shedders, so be prepared for regular grooming.

Red Merle Pomeranians are vocal dogs and like to express their feelings.

With proper training, they make a good watchdog.

Merle Pomeranians are vivacious canines characterized by their lively, playful, and curious temperament.

They are alert and quick to react to changes in their environment, displaying confidence despite their small size.

They stand at the 23rd position in the dog intelligence ranking, according to Dr. Coren.

They can quickly learn tricks and commands with the right training.

Their protective instincts further enhance their endearing temperament, making training and socialization crucial for a balanced behavior.

They are sociable and affectionate with owners and loved ones, but can also be vocal, using their alert nature to communicate.

Training

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Red Merle Pomeranians are very easy to train due to their high level of intelligence.

They can be wary of strangers and other animals, so proper training is essential from a young age to help them socialize.

Red Merle Pomeranians can be stubborn by nature, which is why proper training is crucial from the start.

Obedience training, sit and stand training, crate training, and potty training are all vital for making your Red Merle Pomeranian socialize.

During training, a strong relationship with their owner can be formed, which is a great benefit for both parties.

Merle Pomeranians are intelligent and eager-to-please dogs that can be trained with consistency and patience.

It's paramount to start training early to get the best results.

Socializing, crate training, and obedience training are essential for the best results with your Merle Pomeranian.

If you're having trouble training your Merle Pomeranian, seeking help from a professional dog trainer can be a game-changer.

Cost and Availability

Brown Pomeranian Dog on Round Glass Table
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The cost of a Red Merle Pomeranian can range from $1500 to $3000 from a reputable breeder. This price variation is due to factors like the breeder's reputation, location, and the dog's size.

Merle Pomeranians often cost more due to high demand for their unique appearance. Backyard breeders and puppy mills may take advantage of this demand to scam people out of more money by upcharging for merle and other unique colors.

Cost of

Merle Pomeranians often cost more due to a high level of demand for the unique pups. They can range in price from $1500 to $3000 from a reputable breeder.

The cost of every dog breed depends on the breeder's reputation, location, and dog's size, but Merle Pomeranians are particularly pricey due to their unique coloration.

Backyard breeders and puppy mills are known to upcharge merle and other unique colors to scam people out of more money, so it's essential to find a reputable breeder.

Double-merle dogs, which occur when two merle dogs are bred together, tend to have serious congenital problems, including blindness and deafness.

Finding a Breeder

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Finding a reputable breeder is crucial when considering getting a Merle Pomeranian. Start by searching for breeders online, but be cautious of those with a large number of dogs or a focus on profit over animal welfare.

You should contact the breeder and ask questions about their breeding program, the health of their dogs, and any genetic testing they have done. This will give you a good idea of their priorities and expertise.

Ask to see the puppies and their parents in person to evaluate their health and temperament. It's essential to observe the dogs' behavior and overall well-being.

A reputable breeder is likely to be a member of a breed club or organization. This affiliation can indicate a commitment to responsible breeding practices and animal welfare.

Here are some key questions to ask a breeder:

  • What is your breeding program focused on?
  • How do you prioritize the health and well-being of your dogs?
  • What genetic testing have you done on your breeding dogs?

By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Adopting from a Shelter

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Adopting from a shelter can be a rewarding experience for both you and the dog. It's vital to research the rescue organization thoroughly, looking for a reputable one with experience with the breed and a good track record of placing dogs in loving homes.

Some reputable rescue organizations for Merle Pomeranians include Recycled Poms – Houston, ResQ Animal Coalition, Colorado Peke and Pom Rescue, and Pomeranian Club of Central Virginia Rescue. These organizations have a proven track record of finding forever homes for their dogs.

Adopting a Merle Pomeranian from a rescue may be tough due to their rarity and cost. However, with persistence and patience, you may be able to find the perfect companion.

If you do decide to adopt from a shelter, be prepared for the possibility that the dog may have behavioral or medical issues that need to be addressed. It's essential to understand these potential challenges before bringing a new pet home.

Here are some reputable rescue organizations for Merle Pomeranians:

  • Recycled Poms – Houston;
  • ResQ Animal Coalition;
  • Colorado Peke and Pom Rescue;
  • Pomeranian Club of Central Virginia Rescue;
  • Recycled Pomeranians & Schipperkes; and
  • Southern California Pomeranian Rescue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a merle Pomeranian worth?

A blue merle Pomeranian can cost $4,000 or more, but prices may vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation and bloodline. If you're interested in learning more about the value of merle Pomeranians, check out our article on the breed's unique characteristics and pricing.

How rare are merle Pomeranians?

Merle Pomeranians are relatively rare due to the careful breeding required to produce a healthy litter, limiting their availability worldwide. This coloring pattern is often disqualified by kennel clubs, making it even more scarce.

What is the rarest color of Pomeranian?

The rarest colors of Pomeranians are lavender, brindle, and blue, with lavender being the most elusive and highly sought-after. This unique color can significantly impact the price of a Pomeranian.

Sources

  1. Red Merle Pomeranian- Characteristics,Grooming ... (pomeranianpuppies.dog)
  2. merle coat (purina.co.uk)
  3. Merle (researchgate.net)
  4. eye issues (doublemerles.info)
  5. Merle Champions (magixzpoms.com)
  6. Colors & Markings (bellehousepoms.com)

Colleen Gusikowski

Senior Copy Editor

Colleen Gusikowski is a meticulous and detail-oriented copy editor with a passion for refining language and elevating content. With a keen eye for grammar and syntax, she brings clarity and coherence to a wide range of articles, from in-depth features to engaging listicles. Her expertise spans diverse topics, including the lovable Chocolate Lab breed and the creative world of canine nicknames.