Merle Dogs: Coat Patterns, Health, and Breeds

Blue merle border collie against light blue background — Note: While the breeds in this collection tend to be merle in color, individual pets will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.

12 Dog Breeds

Only show breeds available for adoption near me

Chihuahua

Don't be fooled by their dainty size—the Chihuahua packs a spicy personality. These little bundles of curiosity are always on the lookout for adventure, their bright eyes sparkling with mischief and intelligence. While some Chihuahuas possess a regal air, others lean into their feisty side, always ready with a playful nip or a sassy strut. But beneath the bravado lies a heart of pure gold, brimming with love and a devotion that will warm you from the inside out.

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Rough Collie

While elegant-looking, the Rough Collie dog is more of a hometown guy or gal, friendly and affectionate with just about everyone. The Rough Collie bonds closely with its owners and is a loyal companion, game to do whatever its owners are doing. They take their job of watchdog seriously, inclined to bark to alert their owners, although not aggressively. They can back down when asked to do so.

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Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog breed is a highly spirited, sparky pup. They are goofy yet hardy, used to spending days dodging cattle kicks, although more likely now they are spending their days romping in a backyard. They can be well-behaved at home but do bark to alert. They can be scrappy with other dogs and reserved with strangers, but fun-loving and adoring with their owners. 

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French Bulldog

Clowning around comes naturally to the French Bulldog, who enjoys playing and enchanting their families. They make excellent cuddle buddies and are very happy simply snoozing next to their favorite person. Amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please, they make excellent companion dogs. 

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Australian Shepherd

With a hardworking spirit and grit, the Australian Shepherd is the epitome of the American West, the place where they first became popular in this country. They were originally bred to drive and herd. Suspicious of strangers but immensely devoted to their families, the Aussie Shepherd dog gets along well with other animals and children if socialized early and often. They love having a job to do, especially on a working farm. They are loving, alert, confident, independent, affectionate, and extremely smart dogs. The Aussie dog learns quickly—and that could include bad habits! It can take a lot to exhaust these dogs properly, and a bored Aussie can be a vocal and mischievous one. 

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Dachshund

Close to the ground, short and sassy Dachshunds aren’t built to win any canine races, but they are built to win hearts. Part cuddle bug and part tiny dictator, this pup can be a pinch stubborn but remains endearing even in its most frustrating moments. Dachshunds make excellent watchdogs since they are always on high alert for their surroundings.

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Border Collie

Every Border Collie is a shepherd at heart, constantly on the lookout for things to round up. No toy is safe from being gathered! These active workers are intelligent and attentive, and they have incredible agility with the ability to change directions on a dime. They can sometimes be considered workaholics since it’s so ingrained in them to be alert at all times. 

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Shetland Sheepdog

Bright, sensitive, and willing to please, the Sheltie is an adaptable and hearty farm dog. They are devoted to their families. Their active minds take some time to quiet, and learning how to settle is an important part of their training. They get along well with children, albeit older ones since they are prone to nipping heels and herding while playing which might not be suitable for smaller children. Strangers might find them aloof and reserved, or on the end of a barking fit—Shelties take their job as watchdogs very seriously. 

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Standing Smooth Collie dog breed with head tilted against a white background

Collie (Smooth)

Smart and gentle, Smooth Collies are playful bundles of short-haired joy. These eager-to-please pups excel in training with their energetic spirit and sharp minds. Perfect for active families, their loyalty and affectionate nature make them devoted companions, always happy to cuddle or conquer an agility course by your side! They might have the zoomies of a tiny tornado sometimes, but their loving demeanor and faithful spirit make them the perfect furry friend for memorable adventures and movie marathons alike. 

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Bergamasco Sheepdog

The Bergamasco is a working dog, naturally inclined to guard and herd. To make it in family life, they need early socialization and ongoing training. Though there is a strong desire to please, this is not an ideal dog for a first-time dog owner.

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Catahoula Leopard Dog

While working, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is mindful and focused, but when off-duty, their playful side comes out. They can be clownish and funny with those they know and aloof and watchful of those they don’t know. Independent and sometimes territorial, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is well-mannered once they know their place.

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Great Dane

Great Danes are deeply affectionate and incredibly loyal. While their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs, this instinct can sometimes lead to territorial behavior towards unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization in Great Dane puppies and obedience training are essential for shaping a well-adjusted dog.

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