Bear Canyon Kennels

📌 From an Ethical Chow Chow Breeder’s Perspective: In Defense of Responsible Merle Breeding As a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, transparency, and lifetime responsibility, I believe it is important to address the growing controversy surrounding merle Chow Chows with facts, not fear. Yes, the merle gene is not part of the traditional, historically recognized Chow Chow colors. However, genetic evolution in domestic dogs has always occurred through careful, intentional outcrossing, followed by generations of health selection and stabilization. Many accepted breeds and colors today originated this same way. What truly defines ethical breeding is not color alone — it is: Comprehensive genetic testing Eye and hearing evaluations Temperament stability Full disclosure to buyers And lifelong breeder responsibility for every puppy produced When merle is introduced and maintained responsibly and transparently, with: Strict single-merle-to-non-merle pairings No double-merle breedings Documented health testing And selective line stabilization The risks associated with the merle gene can be ethically managed and significantly reduced. Health is determined by breeding practices, not simply by the presence of a color gene. It is also important to acknowledge that: Merle dogs can and do live full, healthy, normal lives Merle alone does not equal defect, illness, or suffering And blanket condemnation of all merle breeding oversimplifies a complex genetic issue What should be universally condemned is: Backyard breeding Color-only breeding for profit Lack of testing And dishonest marketing — regardless of coat color Merle Chow Chows that exist today are not mistakes. They are living, feeling dogs who deserve respect, excellent care, and informed advocacy. Responsible innovation and preservation can coexist. Ethics is measured by health, honesty, and accountability — not by tradition alone.