Merle Corgi: Complete Guide

There’s no denying how adorable Corgis are. Their apricot or golden coat, long straight ears, lovely eyes, fluffy behinds with charming temperament make them a popular canine companion.

Whether you have a Pembroke Welsh Corgi or a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, these long body and short-legged furbabies will catch anyone’s attention no matter where they are. But, did you know that Corgis can come in a variety of colors and coat patterns such as Blue Merle, brindle, and sable?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Merle Corgi including common health issues, physical appearance, temperament, exercise and grooming requirements, dietary needs, and whether they make great family pets.

After reading this, you’ll know whether the Merle Corgi is the furry companion for you and your family. We’ve also included a list of breeders to contact if you’re interested in buying one.

Merle Corgi: Breed overview 

Corgi: Merle	Merle Cardigan	Merle Pembroke
Purity	Purebred	Hybrid
Purpose	Companion Dog	Companion Dog
AKC Recognition	Yes	No
Size	Medium	Medium
Weight	25-38 pounds	23-28 pounds
Height	10.5-12.5 inches	10-12 inches
Coat Colors	Blue Merle, Blue Merle with Tan Points, Blue Merle with Brindle Points	Blue Merle, Red Merle
Child Friendliness	High	High
Canine Friendliness	Moderate	Moderate
Training Difficulty	Moderate	Moderate
Grooming Upkeep	Moderate	Moderate
Exercise Needs	Moderate-High	Moderate-High
Health	Moderate	Moderate
Lifespan	12-15 years	12-15 years
Puppy Costs	$1,000-$5,000	$10,000 & up

Check out: Corgi Dalmatian Mix (Complete Guide)

What is a Merle Corgi? 

A Corgi Merle is either a purebred Cardigan Welsh Corgi or a Pembroke Welsh Corgi hybrid that has the  Merle coat pattern. Merle Corgis have coats that have irregular or marbled patches of black and gray.

Can Pembroke Corgis be Merle? 

Yes, Pembroke Corgis can be Merle, however, it should be emphasized that Pembroke Corgis that have the Merle pattern are not purebred.

Pembroke Corgis are a hybrid of the purebred Pembroke Corgi and possibly the Cardigan Merle Corgis or the Australian Shepherd. 

Are Merle Corgis purebred? 

Yes, Merle Corgis can be purebred as long as they are Cardigan Welsh Corgis. Pembroke Welsh Corgis do not have Merle in their gene pool and purebred Corgi Merle can only be Cardigans.

You may like: Corgi Boxer Mix (Complete Guide)

Pembroke vs Cardigan Corgi 

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi are two different breeds of dogs. The main difference between Pembroke and Cardigan Corgi is that Pembroke is usually dock-tailed as a puppy while Cardigan Corgi is long-tailed. 

The two Corgis may look very similar but there is a difference between Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis when it comes to their physical traits, as well as, their temperament and personality.

Merle Cardigan Corgi 

Merle Cardigan Welsh Corgi has a unique coat color that makes them popular with many dog buyers. Cardigan Welsh Corgi colors Merle can have patches of white, sable, or black in their coat with the added attraction of possibly having blue eyes.

The Cardigan Merle Corgi is prone to deafness and blindness. This makes the Cardigan Welsh Corgi Merle rare because many breeders try to prevent a double Merle offspring.

Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi 

As stated above, the Merle Pembroke Corgi is a hybrid.

Pembroke Merle Corgi is a result of crossing a Pembroke Corgi with other breeds that have the Merle pattern. Pembroke Welsh Corgi Merle is a mix that is frowned upon by respected breeders because they want to keep the Pembroke breed as pure as possible and not be affected by the health issues associated with the Merle gene.

You may also like: St Bernard Corgi Mix (Complete Guide)

Cardigan Welsh Corgi history 

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi descended from the Teckel hound family brought in by Celtic tribes from central Europe to Wales hundreds of years ago. They were used by farmers for cattle herding. Until 1934, the Cardigan and the Pembroke Corgis were considered one breed.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi history

Pembroke Corgis are related to the Spitz dog family. They were brought to the Pembrokeshire region of Wales by Flemish weavers and were used primarily to herd cattle. The popularity of this breed increased when the British Royal Family began taking care of them as pets in the 1930s.

American Corgi Merle 

American Corgi Merle is a cross between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Cardigan Welsh Corgi with a Merle pattern.

American Corgi vs Pembroke 

The main difference between American Corgi and Pembroke is that American Corgis are hybrids while Pembroke Corgis are purebred.

Merle cowboy Corgi 

Cowboy Corgi Merle is a hybrid of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Australian Cattle Dog that carries a Merle gene.

Can Merle Corgis be AKC recognized?

Only the Merle Cardigan Welsh Corgis are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since they are purebred. Unfortunately, Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not recognized by AKC.

According to a study published for The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America, the Pembroke Welsh Corgis do not possess the Merle gene that is found in Cardigan Welsh Corgis. Therefore, Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not considered purebred. Instead, they are considered a cross-breed and thus are also not recognized by the Centennial Kennel Club (CKC).

Merle Corgi genetics 

The Merle pattern is a result of a dominant gene. One parent carrying this gene would certainly pass it on to its offspring and it will be visible in the coat most of the time. The Welsh Corgi Merle are prone to sight and hearing problems since the gene not only dilutes coat colors but also affects the melanin in the eyes and the nerve endings in the ears. 

If both parents carry the Merle gene, then the offspring is known as a double Merle. The probability of this dog being blind and deaf later in life is very high.

Merle Corgi physical appearance 

Merle Cardigan Corgi

The Merle Cardigan Corgi has a long and muscular body with a sturdy build. The length of his body is proportionally long compared to the height with short and slightly bowed legs and a long,  low-set, and fox-like tail.

Eyes are medium to large and can be blue or gray in color. The ears are large and leathery with a rounded tip. Skull is somewhat wide and flat between the ears.

Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Merle Corgi is a hybrid that can have similar looks to the Cardigan but can vary somewhat with the shape of the ears which could be smaller and pointed or the legs which could be straighter. 

Merle Corgi colors 

The Merle colored Corgi will have a coat where spots of dark pigments appear over lighter ones. There can be gray and black marble patterns with white patches around the chest, neck, face, and legs. This may be accompanied by some tan patterns on the cheeks, ears, legs, and tail.

Other colored Merle Corgis can be red over white.

Blue Merle Corgi 

Blue Merle Cardigan Corgi will have marbled black and gray patches in their body with or without tan or brindle points. Only the Blue Merle Cardigan Corgi is recognized by the AKC and not the Pembroke Corgi Merle.

Red Merle Corgi 

A Corgi Red Merle is a hybrid Corgi. The red color is a liver-colored dog that the Merle gene diluted.

The Merle pattern can grow less distinct as the dog matures making it appear red as an adult with only the blue-colored eyes as the remaining hint that it was a Merle Corgi.

Double Merle Corgi 

A Corgi with two parents that has the Merle gene is called a Double Merle Corgi. Its predisposition to blindness and hearing problems is also doubled, that is why it is considered unethical for breeders to breed this kind of Corgi.

Sable Merle Corgi 

Their coat is characterized by a “black cast” where the back and shoulders are mostly black. They can also have black markings that arch over the eyes that extend down to the muzzle. The red patches in their body gear more toward a chestnut or brown shade.

CHECK OUT: Sable Corgi (Complete Guide)

Brindle Merle Corgi

The brindle pattern is usually called a tiger-striped pattern with a brown base color interspersed with black or dark-colored stripes.

It occurs mostly on their backs and on their faces which forms a mask-like appearance while the rest of the body is covered in white. 

The brindle pattern is found only on Cardigan Corgis and any Pembroke with this pattern is a hybrid.

Harlequin Merle Corgi 

The coat pattern in this Corgi will have white fur in between the dark patches of Merle.

Fluffy Merle Corgi 

Corgis with this coat have longer furs with more feathering around the chest, ears, underparts, and legs.

WANT MORE INFORMATION? Fluffy Corgi (Complete Guide)

Merle Corgi size, height, and weight 

An adult Corgi would reach its full height at around one year and may continue to grow a little more until they are 14 months old.

Age	Weight (Males)	Height (Males)	Weight (Females)	Height (Females)
3 months	13-15 pounds	5-7 inches	10-14 pounds	5-7 inches
6 months	23-28 pounds	7-8 inches	19-25 pounds	7-8 inches
1 year	30-36 pounds	10.5-12.5 inches	24-32 pounds	10.5-12.5 inches

Merle Corgi temperament and personality

Cardigan Merle Corgis are calmer compared to the more active Pembroke. Both Corgis are territorial and very protective, but the Cardigans are less affectionate.

Do Merle Corgis make great family pets? 

Yes, Merle Corgis do make great family pets. Corgis, in general, are great family dogs and can get along well with most children and other pets.

Merle Corgi training

Corgis, in general, are also easy to train. But, they can also be stubborn at times due to their independent streak. 

Merle Corgi exercise requirement

Because they are mainly a herding breed, they require at least an hour of exercise daily. They are energetic and have lots of stamina so give them plenty of walks and mental stimulation. 

Handy Hint: Looking for game ideas to play with your Merle Corgis? Try playing catch and fetch or tug of war with your precious Corgis. Check out Best Indestructible Dog Toys for some of our top picks when it comes to doggy balls and frisbees. We’ve also provided reviews you don’t want to miss!

Merle Corgi living conditions

Corgis can adapt easily to any living conditions, whether be it city or country living. New dog owners would not have much difficulty as long as their Corgis get their daily exercises.

Many Corgi owners living in both the city and in the suburbs find it convenient and helpful when they install an electronic dog door (or two) for their canine companions.

With an automatic doggy dog door, owners can program and set curfew hours for their furry friends. This way, their four-legged friends can enjoy the sun and fresh air during the day (whether or not their owners are at home) and remain safe inside at night.

Dog owners can also say goodbye to frequent interruptions and annoyance every time their K9 pals need to head outside.

Before you install an electronic dog door, you’ll want to make sure your backyard is fenced in. If you allow your dogs to roam freely in your backyard, make sure to keep them safe with a strong fence system.

If your town or county does not allow physical fences in their zoning laws, try installing a wireless dog fence. It works the same way as physical fences and prevents your canine friends from becoming the next Harry Houdini.

Merle Corgi grooming and cleaning 

To keep your dog looking great, clean, and fresh, here’s what you should do to maintain a Merle Corgi’s elegant look:

Grooming Needs	Frequency
Brushing	Every day.
Bathing	Every 3-4 weeks.
Ear Cleaning	Once a week.
Teeth Brushing	Three times a week.
Nail Trimming	As needed.

When it’s time for bathing, avoid using human shampoos. Using human shampoo on our precious pooch is harsh and can strip the natural oil and moisture from his skin and coat. This will lead to dry and irritated skin. Instead of human shampoo, we highly recommend that you use dog shampoo to keep your Merle Corgi’s skin and coat healthy and moisturized.

Next, brushing your Corgi’s teeth at least three times a week is essential. Dental disease is one of the most common chronic problems in dogs and it affects 80% of all dogs by the time they reach two years of age. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are also more likely than other dogs to have teeth problems.

Therefore, you’ll want to use dog toothpaste that contains an enzymatic formula. A good dog toothpaste should be able to effectively remove plaque, control tartar formation, and keep your Corgi’s gums healthy. It should contain non-foaming formula so that the toothpaste is safe to swallow. With the right doggy toothpaste, your pooch will have clean teeth and a fresh breath!

Lastly, trimming your dog’s long nails can be a hassle if you’re using nail clippers. Some dogs are sensitive to the loud clipping sound and will react by barking, howling, or biting.

If this is the case with your furry family members, try using a dog nail grinder that features a whisper-quiet motor and a precise diamond drum bit grinder. Not only will you avoid clipping the quick but also your furry pals may have a better experience.

Is Merle Corgi hypoallergenic?

No, Merle Corgis are not hypoallergenic. Merle Corgis, be it a Cardigan Corgi or a Pembroke Corgi sheds a lot, thus, this breed is not hypoallergenic. If you find your house full of hair and dander, it’s a good idea to invest in a powerful and effective vacuum cleaner. I’ve used this one for at least five years now:

Want more information? Check out Are Corgis Hypoallergenic?

Merle Corgi food and diet

A balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, and fats is essential for the health of Merle Corgi.

1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dog food, divided into 2 to 3 servings is recommended. 

You may be interested in: Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

Merle Corgi health problems 

Many Corgi health problems are genetic, meaning a Merle Corgi is more at risk compared to other dogs.

Whether you have a Corgi, another dog breed, or a mixed dog breed, it’s important to know what health issues they are predisposed to. We highly recommend that you speak with your dog’s breeder or veterinarian.

If you didn’t get your dog from a breeder or didn’t get much information about your dog from the rescue centers, you could alternatively use a dog DNA test.

I’ve personally used the Embark dog DNA test on my two furry companions. I specifically chose this one because it features both breed identification and health detection. The health detection results came back relatively quickly – within two weeks and it helped me understand how I could better take care of my two furbabies.

When it comes to Merle Corgis, here are the top five common diseases you should be aware of:

1. Kidney disease

Glomerulonephropathy is a disease that slowly damages the dog’s kidneys and causes them to leak proteins. Corgis will then have high blood pressure and pant excessively.

2. Lymphoma 

Dog lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects this breed more than the other dogs. The good news is that, if detected early, this type of cancer is treatable. 

3. Epilepsy

A neurological disorder that causes the dog to suffer from sudden and uncontrollable seizures. 

4. Obesity 

Corgis are prone to weight gain. Unfortunately, obesity can lead to more serious problems like diabetes, metabolic changes, joint problems, dental disease, and even pancreatitis.  

Merle Corgi lifespan

Merle Corgi can live for up to 12 to 15 years.

Merle Corgi breeder

If you want a Merle Corgi puppy, the best place to go is to a reputable breeder who has a passion for raising healthy puppies. Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store or puppy mill because you have no idea if the puppy is a product of an unlicensed dog breeder.

How do you know if you are dealing with a good breeder?

First, a good breeder will not hesitate to show you the breeding area. Second, a good breeder will provide you with a health certificate for the puppy. Third, a good breeder offers a health guarantee card wherein you will get your money back or a replacement puppy in case the one you chose developed a congenital disease within a specified time. 

Merle Corgi puppy 

Before purchasing a Corgi Merle puppy, be sure to know the facts first.

For one, Corgi puppies Merle Cardigan is purebred while a Pembroke Welsh puppies are not. One of the factors that should set them apart is the coat color of the Corgi Merle puppies.

Purebred Pembrokes do not sport a Merle coat like the Merle Corgi puppies Cardigan. Pembroke Corgi can have a red color coat like the Red Merle Corgi puppy Cardigan, but not Merle.

Regardless of your choice, a Merle Corgi puppy can feel overwhelmed when he is first introduced to your new home or to a new environment. Thus, it’s essential to provide him with a loving and caring atmosphere, especially during this developmental stage. 

Merle Corgi price

On average, the cost of a Merle Corgi is from $1,000 to $10,000.

Merle Corgi puppies for sale 

The cost of Red Merle Corgi puppies for sale may be different depending on the breeders’ locations. The higher the cost of living in an area, the higher the price of a Merle Corgi puppy for sale. 

Merle Corgi puppies for sale in Texas

Interested in Merle Corgi puppies for sale in Texas?

LeMitri (lemitris.dog) is one of the finest breeders in Houston, Texas. Corgi puppies are sold for $3,000. In case they do not have a Merle Corgi puppy or a Merle Corgi puppy in the upcoming litter, your $100 deposit is refundable. 

Adoption from rescue centers is also a great option where you can get these dogs at a more affordable price. 

Merle Corgi for sale 

If you would rather look for an adult Corgi Merle for sale, we will provide you with links on where to find adult Merle Corgis for sale. If you find it challenging to look for an adult Merle Corgi for sale near me, you may want to think about having the dog shipped and delivered to your doorstep. 

Merle Cardigan Corgi for sale 

Listed below are two trusted Merle Cardigan Corgi breeders where, hopefully, you will find a canine companion that fits right in with your family:

Magnolia Creek Corgis (magnoliacreekcorgis.com) is located an hour away from the North of Destin, Florida. It is home to healthy Cardigan and Pembroke Corgis puppies that you can get on an installment basis. If you cannot find what you are looking for, they can connect you with other breeders who have an available adult Merle Cardigan. 

Hat Creek Corgis (hatcreekcorgis.com) have available adult Blue Merle Cardigans for sale starting at $2,000.  

Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi for sale 

As we’ve mentioned earlier, a Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi is not purebred but a hybrid dog. Reputable breeders will not advertise them as purebred, rather a cross between a Pembroke Corgi and any other dog that has the Merle gene.

Lancaster puppies (lancasterpuppies.com) have reputable breeders with whom you can inquire or ask for referrals for Merle Pembroke Welsh Corgi for sale. 

High Quality Corgi Pups (highqualitycorgipuppies.com) have long years of experience in breeding Pembroke Welsh Corgis. You may inquire if they have or sell adult dogs. They ship all over the USA, Canada, and almost around the globe. 

Merle Corgi: Pros and Cons 

Merle Corgi is nice to have because not only is he a good-looking pooch but he is also very cuddly. In a nutshell, here are some of the traits that you can expect from a Merle Corgi:

Pros	Cons
Intelligent.	Tends to bark a lot.
Great watchdogs.	Tends to herd including small kids.
Agile and athletic.	Can be stubborn.
Great family dog.	Can get bossy if not socialized properly.
Suited for apartment living.	Needs regular exercise.
Eager to please its human family.	A propensity for weight gain.

Is the Merle Corgi right for me?

If you have the time to devote to training, yes, a Merle Corgi is right for you. Failure to do so may result in nipping and other dominant and destructive behavior. If you do not mind vacuuming your home every day to remove fur, then, yes, this dog is right for you.

Related Question

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Resources:

https://www.pet-medcenter.com/storage/app/media/PDF/Dog_pdf/pembroke-welsh-corgi.pdf

https://cardiganhealth.com/research/