If you’ve spent any time scrolling through social media lately, you’ve likely noticed the growing fascination with rare brown and white doodles—and even the striking red merle varieties. These uniquely colored doodles, whether they’re Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, or the increasingly popular Golden Mountain Doodles (GMDs), are taking the designer dog world by storm. But why are these specific colors so sought-after, and what makes them so special?

The Rarity Factor

The allure of these rare doodle colors is no accident—it’s a result of careful, selective breeding. Doodles, which are a cross between poodles and other breeds like Golden Retrievers or Bernese Mountain Dogs, inherit a beautiful mix of coat colors and patterns. But achieving a specific combination like brown and white or the stunning red merle takes generations of strategic breeding. These color patterns are influenced by genetics, and when breeders aim for something as distinct as a brown doodle or merle-coated pup, it requires a deep understanding of genetic pairings.

This process naturally limits their availability, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to these already lovable dogs. It’s no wonder that potential dog owners on the hunt for something truly unique are drawn to these rare coat colors!

The Unique Allure for Pet Owners

Rare doodle colors like brown and red merle are incredibly eye-catching. The contrast of brown against white creates a visually stunning appeal, while red merle coats often display a mix of reddish-brown, cream, and even grayish-blue hues. It’s a look that makes heads turn. For many doodle enthusiasts, owning one of these rare-colored dogs is like having a living work of art. Whether it’s a Golden Mountain Doodle with its beautiful tri-color mix, a Bernedoodle with rich brown tones, or a Goldendoodle boasting a merle pattern, these colors can feel like a personal statement of style and individuality.

But beyond the aesthetic appeal, these colors also carry a sense of exclusivity. For those who love standing out from the crowd, owning a brown doodle or a red merle Goldendoodle offers that perfect touch of uniqueness.

The Litter: Rae & Rico's Brown Chocolate Merle Golden Mountain Doodles

For those searching for their perfect doodle companion, we’re thrilled to announce that the deposit list is now open for Rae & Rico’s Medium-Standard Brown Chocolate Merle Golden Mountain Doodle (GMD) puppies! These puppies are expected just in time for Christmas 2024 and are sure to make the holiday season extra special.

If you’ve been dreaming of adding a unique brown doodle to your family, this litter offers the perfect opportunity. The combination of brown chocolate merle coloring will make these GMD puppies stand out in any crowd. And, as always, we prioritize health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices, ensuring that Rae & Rico’s puppies will be well-rounded, happy companions.

Ethical Considerations in Rare Color Breeding

While the beauty of these rare-colored doodles is undeniable, it’s important to consider the ethics behind breeding for specific coat colors. Breeding solely for appearance without prioritizing health can sometimes result in genetic issues or health complications. For example, certain coat colors like merle can carry a higher risk of health concerns, particularly if not bred responsibly.

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we take a balanced approach to breeding. While we love creating stunning coats like brown chocolate merle and red merle, we always place the highest priority on the health, temperament, and overall well-being of our dogs. We’re committed to breeding puppies that not only look amazing but are also happy, healthy, and well-adjusted for family life.

When it comes to breeding for rare and desirable colors like brown or red merle in doodles—particularly in a cross between Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles—genetics play a crucial role. If the base coat color of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Golden Retriever parents is black (BB), careful manipulation of genes is necessary to introduce brown or merle into the offspring.

The Genetics of Brown Color (bb)

To achieve a brown coat (also known as chocolate) from black-based parents, you need to work with the B locus gene, which controls the black (dominant B) or brown (recessive b) pigment. For a puppy to be brown, it must inherit two copies of the recessive b gene (bb) from both parents. Since both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Golden Retriever traditionally carry the BB genotype (black pigment), you would need to introduce the b allele through a Poodle that carries or expresses the bb genotype.

The breeding process would look like this:

1. Step 1: Introduce the Brown (b) Allele
   Start by breeding a Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle with a Poodle that is either bb (brown) or carries the recessive brown gene (Bb). This Poodle parent will be responsible for passing on the b allele. If both parents carry at least one b allele, some puppies in the litter can be bb, which will result in the desired brown coat.

2. Step 2: Breeding for Brown Offspring
   In the first generation, if you breed a BB Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle with a bb Poodle, all the offspring will carry the Bb genotype (carriers of brown but appearing black). To produce actual brown-coated puppies, you would then breed two Bb doodles together. This breeding can result in:

   • 25% chance of BB (black coat)

   • 50% chance of Bb (black coat, brown carrier)

   • 25% chance of bb (brown coat)

Through selective breeding, you can eventually increase the likelihood of bb brown puppies in future generations.

The Genetics of Merle

The merle pattern is controlled by the M locus, which is an incomplete dominant gene. A dog with one copy of the merle gene (Mm) will have the merle pattern, while a dog with two copies (MM) is at risk of health problems like deafness or blindness, so responsible breeders avoid breeding two merle dogs together.

1. Step 1: Introduce the Merle Gene
   To achieve a red merle or brown merle puppy, you’ll need to introduce a Poodle parent or another doodle that carries the merle gene (M). This Poodle should have a coat color compatible with the base color you're aiming for (i.e., brown or red).

2. Step 2: Breeding for Merle Puppies
   Cross a Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle that carries or expresses brown with a merle-patterned doodle (preferably one with Mm) to create puppies with a chance of inheriting the merle pattern. If the puppy inherits the M gene from one parent and the b allele from both parents, it could have a brown merle coat.

For example, breeding a Bb Mm Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle with a bb mm Poodle can produce a mix of:

• Mm: Merle-patterned puppies

• bb: Brown puppies

If the brown and merle genes combine, you’ll get the desired brown merle puppies.

Breeding for Brown Chocolate Merle

To breed brown chocolate merle doodles, you need to work on combining these two genetic components:

1. Ensure the puppies inherit two recessive b alleles (bb) for a brown coat.

2. Introduce the merle gene (Mm) to achieve the merle pattern.

In this case, crossing a Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle (black-based) that carries Bb with a merle Poodle (Mm) will eventually yield puppies that are brown chocolate merle if the genetics align properly. Careful pairing and tracking of genetics are essential to ensure you’re not overbreeding the merle gene while also maintaining the recessive b allele.

Conclusion: Balancing Beauty and Responsibility

As the demand for rare-colored doodles continues to grow, it’s crucial for breeders and pet owners alike to maintain a focus on ethical practices. The beauty of a brown doodle or a red merle Goldendoodle is undeniable, but what’s even more important is the health and happiness of these dogs.

 If you’re looking for a doodle that combines unique colors, excellent temperament, and sound health, consider adding one of Rae & Rico’s Brown Chocolate Merle Golden Mountain Doodles to your family this Christmas! Whether you’re drawn to a Goldendoodle, Bernedoodle, or a one-of-a-kind Golden Mountain Doodle, you’ll find the perfect blend of aesthetics and companionship with these special puppies.

Breeding for rare colors like brown or red merle requires a strategic combination of genetics. By introducing the b allele for brown and the merle gene for patterning, breeders can produce stunning brown chocolate merle Golden Mountain Doodles (GMD), Goldendoodles, or Bernedoodles. This process requires careful planning and responsibility to ensure both health and coat color are prioritized.

Ready to Reserve?

Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Visit our website to learn more about Rae & Rico’s upcoming litter and secure your place on the Christmas 2024 deposit list today. 🎄🐾