The Chow Chow is an ancient breed known for its lion-like mane, blue-black tongue, and dignified appearance. Originating in China, the breed has been respected for thousands of years as a devoted companion and guardian. However, in recent years, a new version of this traditional breed has started to attract attention: the Merle Chow Chow. While the merle pattern is striking and unusual, it has also stirred up debate in the dog-breeding community. This article explores the history, characteristics, and controversies surrounding the Merle Chow Chow and offers insight into whether or not this particular version of the breed may be the right companion for you.
Meet 5 Popular Merle Chow Chows from Instagram
Pompom
Source: @pompom_the_merle_chow
Meet Pompom, the fluffy Merle Chow from Québec, Canada. With her striking merle coat and playful spirit, Pompom thrives on snowy adventures and road trips. Whether she’s bounding through fresh snow or exploring the great outdoors, she’s always ready for fun. Pompom loves spending time with her human mum, making every outdoor adventure a fun-filled experience!
Apollo
Source: @apollo_merle_chow
Meet Apollo, the striking Merle Chow Chow from Newcastle, UK, affectionately known as Kung Fu Panda. With his unique merle coat and powerful stance, Apollo is a standout. He’s now ready for stud, carrying the tan N/AT BB/BB genes. Apollo’s charm and strong genetics make him a great candidate for those looking to bring something special to the Chow Chow world.
Django
Source: @django_merle_chowchow
Meet Django, a top-quality male Merle Chow Chow imported from Mississippi, USA, to the UK. This handsome pup is both CKC and DWKC registered, ensuring his pedigree and breed standard excellence. Django has also undergone thorough health testing, making him a prime example of a well-bred and healthy Chow Chow. With his unique merle coat and strong genetics, Django is an exceptional addition to the UK Chow community.
Moki
Source: @mokithemerlechowchow
Meet Moki, a stunning Blue Merle Chow Chow born on 29 March 2023, and proudly DWKC registered. As the son of the renowned @django_merle_chowchow, Moki carries his father’s exceptional genetics and striking merle pattern. Now stud ready, Moki is poised to follow in his father’s paw prints, bringing his unique looks and strong lineage to the next generation of Chow Chows.
Gatsby
Source: @thegrrreatgatsby_
Meet Gatsby, the charming Merle Chow Chow born on 11 September 2018. Weighing in at 24 kg (53 lbs), Gatsby is a fluffy ball of love and joy. With his striking merle coat and affectionate personality, he’s the perfect companion for his human mum, @christianxox. Whether he’s lounging at home or out on adventures, Gatsby brings warmth and happiness wherever he goes!
Origins of the Chow Chow
To understand the Merle Chow Chow, it’s essential first to delve into the rich history of the Chow Chow breed itself. Chow Chows are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with records dating back more than 2,000 years in China. Initially bred as working dogs, they were used for guarding homes, hunting, herding, or even pulling sledges. Over time, the breed became associated with Chinese nobility and grew highly prized for its strength, loyalty, and unique appearance.
Chow Chows were brought to the Western world in the late 18th century and quickly gained popularity in Europe and America. Their stoic demeanour, coupled with their regal appearance, made them a favourite among dog lovers. The breed is especially known for its thick, plush coat, which is available in shades including red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream. However, in recent years, a new colour pattern has entered the scene: merle.
The Introduction of Merle into Chow Chows
Merle is a coat pattern that results in mottled patches of colour in a dog’s coat. It is caused by the presence of a specific gene that affects pigmentation. This gene is more commonly associated with breeds like Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, and Dachshunds. So how did the merle pattern find its way into the ancient Chow Chow breed?
The look of Merle Chow Chows is a fairly recent phenomenon, and their origins are somewhat controversial. Merle is not a naturally occurring colour pattern within the Chow Chow gene pool, which means that Merle Chow Chows have probably been the result of crossbreeding with other merle-carrying breeds. Some breeders have introduced the merle gene via intentional crossbreeding with other breeds, such as the Australian Shepherd or the Catahoula Leopard Dog, to achieve this distinct appearance.
This introduction of the merle gene has been met with mixed reactions from Chow Chow fans and breeders. Some celebrate the distinctive and attractive appearance of Merle Chow Chows, while others argue that crossbreeding to obtain this colour pattern compromises the integrity of the traditional Chow Chow breed.
What Makes the Merle Chow Chow Unique?
Merle Chow Chows stand out for their unusual and striking coat patterns. Unlike solid-coloured Chows, Merle Chows have a coat with marbled or speckled patches, often with varying shades of black, blue, and grey on a base colour of red, cream, or fawn. This creates a visually captivating look that is quite distinct from the classic solid colourings of the traditional Chow Chow.
In addition to their unique coats, some Merle Chow Chows may have lighter-coloured eyes, including blue or amber, as a result of the merle gene. This is a trait that is not normally found in traditional Chow Chows, whose eyes are usually dark brown.
While the coat and eye colour make the Merle Chow Chow stand out, they retain many of the same physical traits as standard Chow Chows. They have the same muscular, compact build, broad head, and thick double coat that gives them their characteristic “lion-like” appearance.
Temperament of the Merle Chow Chow
The temperament of a Merle Chow Chow is generally consistent with that of any other Chow Chow, though individual personalities can vary depending on breeding and upbringing. Chow Chows are known for being independent, loyal, and fairly aloof dogs. They tend to form strong bonds with their families but are often reserved around strangers.
Despite their dignified and sometimes standoffish demeanour, Chow Chows can be very affectionate and devoted to their owners. They aren’t usually as outgoing or playful as other breeds, but they are fiercely loyal and protective. Chow Chows are excellent guard dogs, thanks to their watchful nature and innate suspicion of unfamiliar people and animals.
Training a Chow Chow, including the Merle variant, requires patience and consistency. They are intelligent but can also be stubborn, so early socialisation and training are essential to ensure that they develop into well-mannered adults. Chow Chows respond best to positive reinforcement and a firm but gentle approach to training.
Health Considerations for the Merle Chow Chow
While the Merle Chow Chow is undeniably beautiful, potential owners should be aware of certain health concerns associated with the merle gene. The merle gene, particularly when two merle dogs are bred together, can result in a number of health issues, including hearing and vision problems. Dogs with two copies of the merle gene, often called “double merles,” are at an increased risk of deafness, blindness, and other genetic defects.
To avoid these potential health problems, responsible breeders avoid breeding two merle-patterned dogs together. Instead, they may pair a merle dog with a non-merle dog, which significantly reduces the risk of health issues in the puppies. Nevertheless, all potential Merle Chow Chow owners should make sure they are working with a responsible breeder who understands the risks associated with the merle gene and takes steps to minimise those risks.
In addition to concerns associated with the merle gene, Merle Chow Chows, like all Chow Chows, can be prone to certain breed-specific health problems. These include:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Entropion
- Thyroid Issues
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and maintaining the right exercise routine can help keep your Merle Chow Chow healthy and minimise the risk of these conditions.
Controversy Surrounding Merle Chow Chows
The introduction of the merle gene into the Chow Chow breed has sparked significant controversy within the dog-breeding community. Purists argue that Merle Chow Chows are not true Chow Chows, as the merle gene does not naturally occur within the breed’s gene pool. They believe that introducing the gene through crossbreeding dilutes the breed’s integrity and undermines its historical and genetic purity.
Others, however, see the Merle Chow Chow as a beautiful and unique variant of the breed. These advocates argue that the merle gene has been introduced responsibly by breeders who prioritise the health and well-being of their puppies. They view the Merle Chow Chow as a beautiful and desirable companion, as long as it is bred ethically and health risks are minimised.
In many kennel clubs and dog registries, merle is not recognised as a standard colour for the Chow Chow. This means that Merle Chow Chows are generally not eligible to compete in conformation shows. However, they are still eligible to take part in other events, such as obedience and agility competitions, and may be registered with certain breed-specific registries.
Choosing a Merle Chow Chow: What to Consider
If you’re considering bringing a Merle Chow Chow into your home, there are several important factors to bear in mind. First and foremost, you need to be aware of the potential health risks associated with the merle gene. Make sure you’re working with a breeder who understands the complexities of merle genetics and who prioritises the health and welfare of their puppies over appearance.
In addition to genetic health issues, it’s important to consider whether a Chow Chow, merle or otherwise, is the right fit for your lifestyle. Chow Chows are not overly energetic dogs, but they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are also independent and sometimes stubborn, so they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners or those looking for a highly social and playful breed.
Chow Chows also require regular grooming to maintain their thick, luxurious coats. Their double coats can become matted if not properly cared for, so regular brushing is essential to keep their fur healthy and free of tangles. During moulting seasons, which occur twice a year, Chow Chows will “blow” their coats, requiring even more frequent grooming.
The Future of Merle Chow Chows
The future of Merle Chow Chows is uncertain, as the debate over their place within the breed continues. While they are gaining popularity among certain groups of dog owners, they remain controversial within the wider Chow Chow community. As genetic research continues and attitudes towards breeding evolve, it’s possible that greater clarity will emerge regarding the ethics and health concerns associated with the merle gene in Chow Chows.
In the meantime, prospective owners should educate themselves about the breed, its health risks, and the responsibilities that come with owning a Merle Chow Chow. When bred responsibly and cared for properly, Merle Chow Chows can be healthy, loyal, and striking companions.
Conclusion
The Merle Chow Chow offers a truly unique and visually stunning twist on one of the world’s oldest and most dignified breeds. While their introduction has sparked controversy, there is no denying the appeal of their striking coats and the devotion they bring to their families. For those willing to invest in proper care, training, and understanding of the genetics behind the merle gene, a Merle Chow Chow can be a loyal, beautiful, and unique companion.
