Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Merle Poodle: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

Merle poodle sitting on woman's lap

Merle Poodles are just like regular Poodles, but they have coats with distinctive multicolor markings that often resemble dashes and spots. These Poodles are a bit controversial. There’s a debate over the provenance of the merle gene in this breed, with some arguing that it was a spontaneous mutation and others insisting that it must have been introduced through deliberate cross-breeding, thus making it impossible to have a purebred Merle Poodle.

Breed Overview

Height:

15–24 inches

Weight:

40–70 pounds

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Colors:

Apricot, brown, white, gray, black, cream, fawn

Suitable for:

New dog owners, families with older kids, people with allergies

Temperament:

Intelligent, active, friendly, mischievous

The American Kennel Club (AKC) refuses to recognize Merle Poodles due to the controversy. They’re considered problematic in breeding due to the risk of merle puppies being born blind or deaf.1 They also have higher chances of developing severe eye and ear problems later in life. This is why seeking out a high-quality breeder is always recommended. That said, for the casual canine lover, these dogs act and look like any other Poodles and just have vibrant, multi-colored coats.

dogster paw divider

Merle Poodle Characteristics

Energy
+
High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability
+
Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
+
Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Lifespan
+
Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Sociability
+
Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

The Earliest Records of Merle Poodles in the World

Although they’re commonly associated with France, Poodles were initially bred in Germany to work as water retrievers during waterfowl hunts. The breed has been around for over 400 years, as indicated by the representations of Poodles in 17th-century artwork. Before the turn of the century, they were also popular performers in French circuses. Miniature Poodles developed because the traveling circuses began breeding smaller dogs, as they were easier to transport and cost less money to maintain.

No one’s definitively established where the merle trait comes from in Poodles. Some say that the gene had to have been introduced from another breed, and others swear that their Merle Poodles are 100% purebred and have the DNA tests to prove it.

How Merle Poodles Gained Popularity

Poodles weren’t popular in the United States until one was named the AKC’s Best in Show in 1935. After that, Poodles hit the big time, becoming the most popular breed in the United States in 1960 and staying there for 22 years, until 1982.

They’re still the fifth most popular dogs in the country. While some people adore the merle look on Poodles, others find breeding dogs with the merely trait to be problematic due to the health risks involved. Merle dogs are often born with severe physical issues, and many are blind or deaf. Most experts see breeding these dogs as a high-risk affair. As a result, Merle Poodles have never been extremely popular as a color option within the overall breed.

Formal Recognition of Merle Poodles

Standard, Miniature, and Toy Poodles were recognized by the AKC in 1886, and the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom recognized them in 1874. The AKC recognizes Poodles of any solid color, including white, black, blue, cream, gray, and others. It acknowledges the existence of multi-colored dogs with coats featuring two distinct colors, but it classifies them as not adhering to the breed standard.

When it comes to Merle Poodles, the AKC takes a different tact: It doesn’t acknowledge merle as an accepted breed standard or alternate color. The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom explicitly excludes merle dogs of all breeds from registration.

dogster paw divider

Top 3 Unique Facts About Poodles

1. Poodles Once Competed in the Iditarod

Poodles were bred to be water retrievers and as such, are serious athletes. They’ve had great success competing in dog show agility competitions. Also, in 1988, John Sutter competed in the Iditarod with a team of Poodles. The rules have been changed, though, and the competition is now only open to cold-tolerant breeds.


2. Poodles Are Incredibly Smart

A study determined that the Poodle is the second smartest dog breed. The Border Collie has the top spot. Poodles are so sharp that most can learn a new command with five or fewer repetitions. This trait is also responsible for the famous Poodle tendency to ignore owners’ commands.


3. All Sizes Follow the Same Breed Standard

Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Standard dogs are at least 15 inches tall at the shoulder, and most weigh anywhere from 40–70 pounds. Toys must be under 15 inches tall. All three sizes are judged in competition using the same breed standard.

Do Merle Poodles Make Good Pets?

Merle Poodles make fantastic pets for the right owners. Poodles are whip-smart and have a ton of energy. They’re also incredibly sensitive. These active dogs require tons of physical activity and human attention, or they risk becoming neurotic and exhibiting unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking and hyperactivity.

Standard and Miniature Poodles need at least 1 hour of exercise daily to get rid of all that anxious energy. Toys can usually get by with a 45-minute outing. Training is critical for Poodles because they’re incredibly intelligent and inclined to ignore their owners. Friction between household members often causes anxiety in these dogs. Poodles that are ignored or otherwise don’t receive sufficient attention often become anxious and depressed.

dogster face divider

Conclusion

Merle Poodles are just like other Poodles: active, energetic, and intelligent. They have stunning multi-colored coats featuring dots, dashes, and flecks that create a magical, multi-hued effect. Quite a bit of controversy surrounds these dogs, though.

No one can agree on where the merle trait comes from in Poodle, leading many to suggest that the dogs aren’t purebreds. They’re also considered problematic in breeding due to the risk of health issues, including blindness, deafness, and eye and ear problems. If you’re interested in one of these dogs, seek out a high-quality breeder who knows about the risks of breeding Merle Poodles and ensures the health of their puppies.


Featured Image Credit: Dayvison de Oliveira Silva, Pexels

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

8 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Chesterfield, MO You Can Visit in 2025

If you live in an apartment in the city or you don’t have a yard, dog parks offer an opportunity to exercise your...

Volpino Italiano vs Pomeranian: Main Differences & Similarities

It’s not hard to mistake a Volpino Italiano for a Pomeranian. The two breeds look strikingly similar to one another, often have playful...

How to Train a Dog to Use Their Dog House: 4 Vet-Approved Tips

Many dog owners mistakenly believe that dogs will naturally use a dog house. However, this is only true to some extent. Some dogs...

How Long Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Live? Average Lifespan, Data & Care

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a beautiful small breed known for their sweet and gentle personality. They’re also quite unique in that...

More related

Podengo Portugueso Pequeno Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Traits & Care

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno, also known as the Podengo Portugueso Pequeno is a purebred dog that is the smallest of the Portuguese Podengo...

Are Foxes Related to Dogs? What the Science Tells Us (Vet-Reviewed Facts)

Many of us have seen videos on social media and posts of cuddly, affectionate foxes that have seemingly been adopted by human families...

How to Rehabilitate a Puppy Mill Dog: 7 Vet-Approved Tips

Rescuing a puppy mill dog can be one of the most fulfilling adventures a loving pet parent can embark on and a training...

Can Dogs Eat Artichokes? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Artichokes are large thistle-like perennials grown for their edible flower buds. Their leaves, stems, and roots are often used to make extracts for...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Stuffing? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

If Christmas or Thanksgiving is just around the corner, you may be wondering if you can slip your dog the odd bit of stuffing under the table as a special treat. Unfortunately, while it may look and smell like the...

Can Dogs Eat_Stuffing

The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co. WOOF Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

Like most dog mamas out there, I highly prioritize the health of my two pups. Halle and Indy are part of my family and I want them to live and thrive as long as they possibly can. Halle is, somehow,...

DOG_SAPR_New Zealand Natural Dog food

11 Best Dry Dog Foods for Large Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

The market is flooded with hundreds of different dog food brands, all of which are advertising that they’re the healthiest and best fit for your dog. Finding a good brand of dog food is a challenge regardless of what type...

blue fawn pitbull eatin dry kibble from a bowl

How to Store Wet Dog Food: 7 Vet Approved Tips & Tricks

Wet dog food is a popular texture to feed canines, and it definitely has its share of nutritional benefits. If you have your dog on a wet dog food diet, you’ll want to know all about the best ways you...

woman filling homemade fresh wet food into containers

Can Dogs Eat Cool Whip? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Cool Whip is a summer favorite—a perfect topping for all hot weather treats! It is no wonder that our dogs want a dollop for themselves! If your dog got into the goodies or you just want to spruce up your...

Can Dogs Eat Cool Whip

10 Best Dry Dog Foods in Australia in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Since the dog food industry in Australia is not well-regulated, finding a safe and healthy diet for your pup can be a daunting task. Even if you know you want your dog to eat dry food rather than canned, your...

dalmatian dog eating dry food from a bowl

Water Enhancers for Dogs: Vet-Reviewed Info, Pros, Cons & FAQ

Hydration is a key component to having a healthy dog, as a dehydrated dog can become ill, and their body won’t function as it should. You might be desperate to find ways to increase your pet’s liquid intake, which may...

beagle dog drinking water from metal bowl

8 Best Human-Grade Dog Foods in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

“Human-grade” dog food is a loose term that can be a bit confusing. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), this means that all the ingredients are edible for humans.1 Essentially, this label on a dog food...

cream dog eating from the bowl