If dogs had red carpets, merle-patterned breeds would be the head-turners the paparazzi can’t get enough of. With swirls of color, speckles like stardust, and eyes that sometimes look like moonlight in motion, merle dogs are nature’s masterpiece on four legs.
But this dazzling pattern isn’t just for show. Merle is a genetic trait that can result in some seriously cool looks—blue patches on black fur, marbled coats that change in the light, and even one blue eye and one brown (hello, heterochromia!). It’s like each dog was hand-painted, with no two alike.
From Australian Shepherds to Shetland Sheepdogs, merle coats appear in a variety of breeds, personalities, and sizes. Some are energetic herders, others are chill companions, but they all have one thing in common: unforgettable style.
Today, we’ll introduce you to the most mesmerizing merle-patterned dog breeds—and maybe help you fall in love with a living, breathing work of art.
Dog Breeds With Merle Patterns
1. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie for short, is a charming little herder known for its intelligence and beautiful flowing coat.
The Shetland Sheepdog, often called the Sheltie, is a small to medium-sized dog that looks like a miniaturized Rough Collie. They typically stand 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 15 to 25 pounds.
Among their color options, the blue merle pattern stands out with a mesmerizing blend of blue-gray hues caused by black hairs mixed into their long fur. This unique coat, combined with occasional striking blue eyes, makes blue merle Shelties look like they’ve stepped right out of a fairytale.
Shelties come in several colors, including sable merle, black, and blue merle. While the merle pattern can sometimes appear a bit diluted due to their long, fluffy coat, it’s always noticeable and adds to their distinctive charm.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Shelties are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners and wonderful family companions. Their alert nature and herding instincts mean they often keep a watchful eye on their surroundings, ready to protect their loved ones.
Grooming a Sheltie’s long coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and keep their merle colors shining bright. With proper care, these elegant dogs maintain their fluffy, soft coats that perfectly showcase their signature blue merle pattern.
2. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an ancient breed with roots going back over 3,000 years in Wales. Originally bred to herd cattle and guard farms, these dogs are sturdy, clever, and built for rugged terrain.
Unlike their Pembroke cousins, Cardigans have long, bushy tails and come in a variety of coat colors, with the merle coat pattern turning heads thanks to its stunning mix of blues, grays, blacks, and sometimes tan or white.
These compact dogs stand about 10 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 25 and 38 pounds. Their long bodies, large, rounded ears, and striking eyes — often brown, hazel, or icy blue in merles — give them a distinctive, expressive look. Despite their size, Cardigans have big personalities, combining intelligence, bravery, and loyalty in one playful package.
Cardigans are natural herders, so they might try to “round up” family members with gentle nips or circling behavior. They make excellent watchdogs — alert but not overly barky — and love to stick close to their people, whether that means following you around the house or joining in on playtime.
Grooming is pretty straightforward with their medium-length double coat. Regular brushing twice a week helps keep shedding and tangles under control, especially during seasonal coat changes.
All in all, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a perfect blend of history, beauty, brains, and loyalty — especially if you love that unique merle coat. They make wonderful companions who are as smart as they are charming.
3. Great Dane
If Clifford the Big Red Dog had a stylish cousin who walked the runway in marbled gray, black, and white, that would be the merle Great Dane.
Standing tall and wrapped in a mesmerizing coat that looks like Mother Nature’s abstract art experiment, the merle Great Dane is impossible to ignore. Their patchy, dappled coloring isn’t just eye-catching—it’s show-stopping.
Think of them as the supermodels of the dog world: long legs, striking features, and a wardrobe that always turns heads at the dog park. But don’t let their size intimidate you. Behind those horse-sized paws and deep barks is a lovebug who thinks they’re a lapdog.
Yep, you read that right. These gentle giants often forget they weigh as much as your average teenager and will happily flop onto your couch—or your lap—for a snuggle.
If you’ve got the space (both physically and emotionally) for a dog that doubles as a best friend and body pillow, the merle Great Dane is a jaw-dropping, heart-melting choice.
4. Pyrenean Shepherd
Meet the Pyrenean Shepherd—a scruffy little firecracker with the work ethic of a farmer, the agility of a ninja, and sometimes, the coat of a merle-painted masterpiece.
This breed hails from the French Pyrenees, where they helped shepherds manage flocks in the mountains. (Yes, they literally put the “shepherd” in Pyrenean Shepherd.) Don’t let their small-ish size fool you—these pups are like energetic espresso shots with fur.
When they sport the merle coat, it’s like they were kissed by a cloud of ink and magic. Blues, grays, and blacks swirl together across their shaggy coats, creating a look that screams, “I’m rare, rugged, and ridiculously good-looking.”
Though they can be reserved or wary around strangers, Pyrenean Shepherds are deeply loyal, affectionate, and protective with their families. With early and consistent socialization and training, their spirited and intelligent nature truly shines.
They’re naturally alert and watchful, they often make excellent watchdogs—but without proper social exposure from a young age, their caution can turn into shyness or distrust.
Ideal for active families or anyone who wants a loyal, brainy sidekick with a bit of a “wild child” streak, the merle Pyrenean Shepherd isn’t your average dog—they’re an experience.
5. Chihuahua
Now entering the chat: the Chihuahua—all 5 pounds of sass, attitude, and pint-sized royalty. But when you add a merle coat to the mix? Oh, honey, this pup doesn’t walk… they strut.
Chihuahuas are among the tiniest dog breeds in the world, but don’t let their size fool you—they’ve got big personalities packed into those little bodies.
Merle Chihuahuas look like they were dipped in dappled latte foam and sprinkled with sass dust. These pocket-sized pups wear the merle pattern like a couture jacket.
Swirls of blue, chocolate, and cream dance across their short or long coats, making them look like living, barking abstract art. Very “Hollywood on Rodeo Drive”, if you ask us.
Thanks to their petite size, Chihuahuas are incredibly portable, earning them the nickname “purse dogs” because they’re so easy to travel with, says WebMD. Whether tagging along in a carrier or snuggling in your lap, they’re always up for being close to their humans.
But don’t be fooled—behind that tiny frame is a personality loud enough to emcee a reality show. They’ll run the house, protect your lap, and boss around your 80-pound Labrador like it’s just another Tuesday.
While they have a moderate energy level, they don’t need intense exercise to stay fit. In fact, a few laps around the house or some indoor playtime is usually enough to keep them healthy.
6. Australian Shepherd
If dogs had a “Most Likely to Outsmart Their Owner” award, the Australian Shepherd would be the reigning champ—especially when decked out in that iconic merle coat.
Originally bred as hardworking herding dogs, Australian Shepherds still carry a strong instinct to work and please their owners. Adult Aussies typically stand between 18 and 24 inches tall and weigh around 40 to 65 pounds, with males usually being a bit larger than females.
Roughly 40% of Aussies rock the merle pattern, with their unique dappled patches turning heads everywhere they go. It’s like they showed up to the dog party wearing tie-dye—totally bold and unmistakably cool.
Most breeders wisely pair a merle Aussie with a non-merle mate, which means you get a colorful mix of pups—half rocking the merle magic, half sporting classic solid or bi-color coats. It’s like a surprise box of adorable brilliance.
Known for their loyalty and intelligence, Australian Shepherds have a strong, confident character. While many are friendly and outgoing, some can be a bit reserved around strangers, but with proper introductions, they usually warm up and become quite welcoming.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), their work drive is off the charts. If you’re a couch potato, beware: Aussies will either motivate you into a marathon or outsmart you into thinking they are the boss. Spoiler alert—it’s usually the latter.
If their energy isn’t properly channeled, Australian Shepherds can develop unwanted behaviors like digging and chewing out of boredom or frustration.
7. Border Collie
If there’s a dog version of a rocket scientist, the Border Collie is it. Add a merle coat to the mix, and you get a dappled, dazzling brainiac who looks like they just stepped out of an artist’s sketchbook.
The Border Collie is a medium-sized, highly athletic dog renowned for its intelligence and boundless energy. They typically stand 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 30 to 55 pounds, with males generally on the larger end of the spectrum.
Contrary to popular belief, Border Collies aren’t just the classic black-and-white duo you see in movies. They come in a kaleidoscope of colors—from deep red merle to exotic lilac merle with tan points, each one a living, breathing masterpiece.
Merle Border Collies show off darker patches on lighter backgrounds that give them that signature “dappled” look—think of them as the Dalí of the dog world, but with way more energy.
Petplan noted Border Collies make excellent running partners for active owners and thrive in homes where they can be regularly included in outdoor adventures. Energetic and always ready for action, they do best in active, outdoorsy households that can match their high drive and need for stimulation.
Typically a sociable breed, Border Collies usually enjoy the company of other dogs and can coexist peacefully with cats, especially if they’re introduced early and socialized properly. With the right environment, they’re loyal, fun-loving companions who love being part of the pack.
These smarty-paws crave mental stimulation and physical activity like a kid craves ice cream. They’re perfect for owners who love training, agility, or just need a dog who can read your mind (or at least your hand signals).
Conclusion
Dog breeds with merle patterns are admired for their striking dark splotches, mottled patches, and black patches on coats ranging from dark grey to solid black. The unique merle coat pattern is caused by the merle gene, or merle allele, which can be seen in merle Poodles, French Bulldogs, Miniature American Shepherds, Smooth Collies, Catahoula Leopard Dogs, and even the Bergamasco Shepherd, among many merle breeds. Some call it dapple, especially in certain breed standards.
However, pairing two merle dogs together (from merle parents) risks producing double merle puppies, which can suffer from lethal white syndrome. Cryptic merle and non-merle dogs may silently carry the gene, making responsible breeding practices essential for healthy offspring.
Reputable dog breeders should carefully avoid breeding two merle parents, ensuring that such a dog inherits beauty without compromising health. Whether sporting brown eyes or a unique shimmer, merles are a marvel when bred responsibly.
