Australian Shepherds/Pattern Whites

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Expert: - 7/16/2010


Question

Blue merle female and
We bred our blue merle female to a male black tri, who has a great bloodline. Niether of them have hardly any white on them. She had three beautiful merles and three pattern whites, attatched is a picture. How did this happen? Will it be okay to breed a pattern white to a merle?

Answer
Well, not knowing the dogs, that's difficult to answer.  Although most pattern whites come from merle to non-merle matings, if the black tri that you bred to was mis-classified, and is really a merle (even a speck of merle on the underside of an ear is still a merle), then you may have a double merle and not really a pattern white.  Some pattern white pups will be deaf or partially deaf.  Also, refer to this article: http://www.asca.org/advancedarticles/whitedeafness  If it were me, I would want to avoid excess white on my puppies, and would not breed a pattern white dog or even the merles from that litter.  But, that's just my opinion, and you should really seek advice from a very experienced reputable breeder.  Maybe someone on the Aussie Board will have a comment on this. It wouldn't hurt you to ask there, too, for confirmation. http://www.theaustralianshepherd.net/aussieboard/

Anne Springer, B.S., Dip., CAPCT

Expertise

I'm happy to answer questions about the Aussie breed and temperament, and basic information about working lines versus show lines, training your Aussie, grooming your Aussie, and what it's like to live with a dog breed that's smart and versatile, but isn't for everyone.

Experience

Professional trainer, and Aussie owner.

Organizations
IPDTA, APDT, Truly Dog Friendly, Therapy Dogs, Inc.

Education/Credentials
B.S., Diploma in Dog Obedience Instruction, Graduate, NY School of Dog Grooming, Certified Advanced Pet Care Technician (American Pet Care Assn.)

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