Jax

The lilac tri merle American Bully lile Jax carries a rare combination of coat color and pattern genes. This unique appearance results from the interaction of three main genetic factors: the chocolate gene, the dilution gene, and the merle gene, along with the tan point gene required for the tri-color pattern.

The lilac base comes from two copies of both the chocolate gene (b locus) and the dilution gene (d locus). When combined, these genes dilute the coat from black to chocolate, and then further to a pale silvery-lavender tone known as lilac. This coat color often appears alongside lighter eyes and a pinkish or gray nose.

To add the tri-color pattern, the dog must also carry two copies of the tan point gene (at locus). This creates defined tan markings on the eyebrows, legs, chest, and face. Without this gene, the dog may still be lilac merle, but not a true tri.

The merle pattern is caused by the merle gene (M locus), which introduces a marbled effect to the base coat. In lilac tri merle American Bullies, this results in a swirling mix of lilac and lighter patches, sometimes with speckled or split-colored eyes. The merle gene is dominant, so only one parent needs to pass it on, but responsible breeders never pair two merle dogs due to health risks.

Producing healthy lilac tri merle puppies requires careful breeding and genetic testing. A reputable Bully kennel like Topdog Bullies selects dogs that carry the correct traits while also prioritizing structure, temperament, and health. When done responsibly, the result is a striking XL American Bully or Bully XXL with rare color and balanced conformation.