There are so many websites out there that truely have no idea what they are talking about when it comes to merles. I have read merles are blind and deaf. This is not so. I have been producing quality AKC Chihuahua merle puppies for many years and have never once had a deaf or blind one. Basically what they are stating is if you breed 2 merles together there is a possibility that the puppies can be born deaf or blind. Now, the point they are trying to make is if you breed a fawn or light color dog to a merle and get what is called a fawn merle or phantom merle, they are born with spots but disappear as they grow so no longer exhibiting the merle pattern can, maybe, at some point, be bred to a merle without knowing she/he carries the merle gene hense you are breeding merle to merle. I am sure this has happened over many times since the merle gene has been around over 20 years. These same breeders don't mind breeding for blue. Which usually are alopecia (which is genetic hairloss).
I have also read that merles are not full blood Chihuahuas that they are mixed with daschound or something. I am sure there are people out there selling very long merles and sell them as CKC registered or ACA since they can get away with this registery. Not with AKC and the requirements they have for DNAing dogs. Speaking of AKC, the accept the merle pattern and it is listed on the application forms when you register your dog. There are some organizations who repeatedly try to get CCA (Chihuahua Club of America) and AKC (American Kennel Club) to band the acceptance of the merle pattern. To this day they have not been able to succeed. Merles are taking blue ribbons daily and are accepted by many top breeders now.
There are other countries who have band the merle Chihuahua from being able to be registered and competing in conformation events but I am sure in time that will change. AKC is the leader in registries and all tend to follow at some point in time.
How can you not love this face?
Tiny chocolate long coat merle girl. Just adorable!
She is beyond cute! I have not heard of this type of chihuahua but i am a chihuahua lover! I have one and i have had several before her now! But i enjoyed reading you blog and learning something new!
ReplyDeleteMaddeline Jennings (JSU student)