How do cryptic merles differ from classic merle dogs?

The difference between cryptic merles and classic merle dogs lies in the length of the genetic insertion within the SILV pigment gene and how that length affects the dog’s physical appearance.

• Cryptic Merles: These dogs have a shorter genetic insertion, measuring 25 to 44 base pairs. Because of their short length, cryptic merles display no obvious signs of the merle pattern; they may appear completely solid or have very few spots.

• Classic Merles: These dogs (often referred to as “normal” merles) have a longer insertion length of 78 to 86 base pairs. This specific length produces the classic mosaic pattern of normal, fully pigmented spots over diluted background areas, as expected in a merle dog.