Merle breeding isn’t a trend, it’s a commitment. At Topdog Bullies in Huron, TN, Ali and Chuck Berry have built a reputation for world-class XL American Bullies (think “RIP Next Level’s Show Stoppin Ace” bloodlines) by always putting health and temperament first. After extensive research, literally months of pedigree reviews, genetic consultations, and health data analysis, we decided to introduce merle XL Bullies to our program. Here’s our breeder-level guide on how we do it safely, why it takes experience, and what you can expect when you bring home one of our designer merle puppies.
Why Merle Requires Experience and Caution
Merle is a powerful coat-color gene (M) that dilutes black pigment into stunning patches of silver, slate, blue, and sometimes tan. It’s dominant, meaning one copy of the gene (Mm) produces the merle pattern. But two copies (MM) create “double merles,” which often suffer from blindness, deafness, and other health issues. That’s why:
Never breed merle to merle. At Topdog Bullies, we only plan matings of a merle carrier (Mm) to a non-merle partner (mm).
Expect roughly 50/50 litters. Half the puppies carry merle (Mm) and half are non-merle (mm). No double-dilutes.
Reduce health risks. By avoiding MM pairings, we eliminate the chance of double-merle defects.
Merle breeding demands strict genetic planning, health clearances, and a breeding contract. If you’re a beginner breeder, merle programs can be risky, so we only offer merle pups to experienced breeders or families who understand the genetics and sign our merle-breeding agreement.
Topdog’s Four Pillars of Safe Merle Breeding
Genetic Testing & Clearances
Merle gene test: Confirms each parent carries exactly one copy of the M allele.
Health screens: OFA hip & elbow, cardiac exams, and CERF eye checks on both sire and dam.
Genetic panels: Rule out common bully disorders (e.g., MDR1, DM).
ABKC-Only Registration
Why not UKC? The United Kennel Club disqualifies merle in American Bullies. Any attempt to register merles with UKC risks paper revocation and kennel sanctions.
ABKC papers: Our merle XL Bullies come with American Bully Kennel Club registration, transparent, secure, and recognized by responsible breeders.
Strict Breeding Contract
No merle-to-merle. Buyers and any future buyers must agree never to mate their merle pup with another merle.
Health guarantee. We back each puppy with a two-year health warranty, provided contract conditions are met.
Lifetime support. Breeders and families receive ongoing guidance on nutrition, training, and health.
Early Socialization & Nutrition
Two-week start. Puppies meet gentle adults, children, and new sounds in our home.
Puppy Power Blend. Our proprietary large-breed formula supports healthy growth without overloading developing joints.
Supplement protocol. We recommend BGK’s Big Dog Supplement and Muscle Up to reinforce muscle development and coat vibrancy.
The Genetics Behind a Merle XL Bully
Breeding a healthy merle XL American Bully is part art, part science:
The Dilute Gene (Dd)
One copy of the dilute allele (d) lightens black pigment to blue or gray.
Both parents must carry the dilute gene to produce blue or slate merles.
The Merle Gene (Mm)
A single M allele creates the signature patchwork.
Double merles (MM) risk ocular and auditory defects, the core reason we avoid merle × merle breedings.
Tan-Point Gene (at)
Produces warm fawn accents on cheeks, eyebrows, chest, and legs.
When combined with merle, you get the coveted faded tan points that pop against a blue-silver background.
White Spotting (S-Series)
Governs the blaze, chest, and foot markings.
We select for balanced white patterns, enough to highlight the merle without excessive piebald patches.
By carefully mapping pedigrees and verifying genetic tests, Topdog Bullies maximizes your chance of a beautiful merle XL Bully, without compromising health.
From Whelping to Weaning | Our Care Protocol
Whelping Suite Setup
Climate control: 74–78°F to support newborn thermoregulation.
Clean bedding: Changed multiple times daily.
24/7 monitoring: Cameras and in-person checks to ensure each pup thrives.
First Two Weeks
Daily weigh-ins: Track growth curves to catch early issues.
Gentle handling: Tactile stimulation promotes confidence.
Puppy puzzles: Basic sights and sounds introduced as early as day 10.
Three to Eight Weeks
Nutrition transition: From dam’s milk to our Puppy Power Blend, moistened for easy lapping.
Social clusters: Rotate litters through new environments, stairs, textured floors, and playpens.
Basic commands: Name recognition, sit, and coming for treats.
Eight to Twelve Weeks
Vet check & vaccinations: Core shots and deworming.
Temperament testing: Identify each pup’s drive and style for ideal placements, family pet, working dog, or show stock.
ABKC registration: Papers issued and buyer welcome packets sent.
What Makes Topdog Merle XL Bullies Unique?
Ace Bloodlines: We trace back to “Show Stoppin Ace” and other legendary studs, guaranteeing structural excellence.
Designer Quality: Marketed as high-end merle XL Bullies, not UKC show stock. You get the best of looks, size, and family-friendly temperament.
Education & Support: Every buyer receives video consultations, care manuals, and access to our breeder network.
Strict Ethics: No penny-driven merle to merle litters. Our contracts and health screens maintain the breed’s integrity.
Pricing & Placement
Merle XL Bullies are designer puppies with premium pricing, reflecting the cost of genetic testing, health clearances, and specialized care. Contact us for current availability, deposit requirements, and our Breeder’s Agreement outline. We place puppies based on the best fit for home environment, experience level, and commitment to our merle-breeding standards.
Bringing Home Your Merle XL Bully
Welcoming a merle XL Bully from Topdog means joining a family that values health, structure, and stunning color. You’ll get:
A genetically sound puppy (Mm) with no risk of double-merle defects.
ABKC registration and a binding breeder’s contract.
A comprehensive starter kit: Puppy Power Blend, BGK supplements, training guide, and lifetime breeder support.
Peers-only access to our private “Topdog Merle Owners” community for continued guidance.
If you’re ready to add a merle designer XL Bully to your home, or your breeding program, reach out today. We’ve done the legwork so you can enjoy merle’s beauty without the risks. At Topdog Bullies, safe merle breeding isn’t just our promise, it’s our passion.
