The Border collie, on the other hand, looks more like an Australian shepherd. The coat colors vary between sable and white, blue merle, or just black and white. According to the American Kennel Club, it is the 38th most popular dog breed in their database. Long-haired collies are of Scottish descent – smooth-haired collies originated in England. Blue dogs often have green or amber eyes as well. Dogs of any color can have one eye or both eyes blue. Some people believe that the blue eyes in a Border Collie come from a Husky ancester, but this is patently untrue. Blue has always appeared in the breed. Eyes of two different colors was once considered an asset for a working collie, as it In a merle dog, there will be patches of solid colour (often white, black or tan) mixed with a paler colour (grey or light red). The pale colour is actually a result of a defect in the gene that produces coat colour. The hairs have incorrect pigmentation and appear much lighter. For instance, the grey colour of a blue merle is, in fact, black Like other Border collies, blue merle Border collies have innate herding instincts, making them perfect dogs for people who are looking to keep livestock under control or who love working in farm settings. Their boundless energy, work ethic, and ability to learn fast are some of the top traits why many farmers believe they are invaluable breeds. Typically, Collies are largely black in color with a white chest, snout and legs but they can also feature a merle coat, giving them a similar appearance but not to be confused with the Australian Shepherd. Border Collies actually come in shades of blue, red, and sable, but the merle pattern is the least common of all the coat traits. The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, driven working dog with strong herding and guarding instincts. These high-energy, athletic dogs also make loving, affectionate companions for active families. Weight. 38–66 lb. Height. 18–23 in. Lifespan. 12–15 yr. Breed Group. The following breeds, among others, are known to have the Merle gene: Australian Shepherd; Rough and Smooth Collies; Shetland Sheepdog; American Foxhound Catahoula Leopard Dog; The ocular effects of the gene can be minor, as in a blue iris, through severe as in complete blindness. The front or back part of the eye, or a combination of both can Fashioned from top-tier hunting and herding genes, the Australian Shepherd Lab mix is essentially a working dog prodigy. Also called Aussiedor, Australian Sheprador, Aussie Sheprador, Aussie Lab, Sheprador, and Lab Aussie Mix, this hybrid is known for its intelligence and athleticism. But veteran dog owners will tell you that the most capable Mee the gorgeous blue merle Australian Shepherd dog. There is more white in tri-colored dogs, and they have tan markings around the legs, face, and chest. In bi-colored shepherds, there’s a distinct lack of any tan shades in their coats. Unlike the other color variations, Blue Merle Australian Shepherds come in one additional color: the blue The Australian shepherd, or Aussie, is a medium-sized herding dog with medium-length fur and an agile, athletic build. The breed's ancestors came to the U.S. from Europe by way of Australia, hence the name. Aussies are an extremely intelligent, loyal, and hard-working breed that makes excellent companions for active people and families. 4eY8i.