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Oh boy, problems with merle dogs - what a bummer! It’s no secret that these pooches can have some serious health issues. From vision and hearing impairments to skin and coat problems, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to owning a merle dog. But don’t worry - with the right care and attention, you can help your pup live their best life! Let’s take a look at some of the common issues associated with merle dogs so you can be prepared.
What Problems Do Merle Dogs Have? [Solved]
Well, if your pup has a merle coat, watch out! It’s an autosomal, incompletely dominant trait that can lead to deafness. Plus, if they have two copies of the mutation - one from each parent - they’ll be white and could even end up blind or sterile. Yikes!
Congenital Deafness: Merle dogs are prone to congenital deafness, which is a condition where the dog is born deaf or develops hearing loss over time. This can be caused by a lack of pigment in the inner ear, which can lead to hearing loss.
Eye Problems: Merle dogs are also at risk for eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma due to their lack of pigment in the eyes. These conditions can cause vision impairment or even blindness if left untreated.
Skin Issues: Merle dogs may also suffer from skin issues such as dryness, itching, and irritation due to their lack of pigment in the skin cells. This can lead to discomfort and even infection if not treated properly with topical medications or other treatments prescribed by a veterinarian.
Genetic Defects: Merle dogs may be more likely than other breeds to have genetic defects that could affect their health and wellbeing over time, including heart defects, skeletal deformities, immune system disorders, and more serious conditions like cancer or epilepsy.
Merle dogs can have some problems, like deafness and blindness. They’re also prone to eye defects, like cataracts and microphthalmia. Plus, they can have issues with their skin and coat. It’s a bummer, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re thinking of getting a merle pup. Still, with proper care and attention these pooches can live long, happy lives!
