At MUTTS, we’re drawn to brands that approach design with care, intention, and a clear point of view. Merlot Studio Inc. is one of those brands.
Founded in Korea, Merlot Studios designs begin with understanding dogs movement and behaviour, rather than creating products to act as decoration. Their work reflects a thoughtful understanding of how dogs actually live alongside us, moving between city life, nature, and everyday routines.
We spoke with the founder of Merlot Studio about how the brand began, how they approach design, and what they hope Merlot represents for people and dogs.
Can you tell us how Merlot Studio started and what inspired you to create the brand?
Merlot Studio Inc. began from a deeply personal moment. In the everyday routine of walking with my dog, I repeatedly felt that the products I naturally reached for never quite felt right. Some were functionally sufficient but lacked consideration for aesthetics, while others looked appealing yet proved uncomfortable when actually worn and used in real movement.
Merlot is pronounced “멀로” in Korean, and its meaning is close to “What should.” It is also the name of our very first dog. There is a saying that dogs live longer when given a casual name, and while asking ourselves, “What should we name it?”, the name Merlot naturally emerged. The pronunciation aligned perfectly, and it also happened to be a wine varietal I personally enjoy.
As human lifestyles and tastes become increasingly refined, the products used by dogs have failed to keep pace with that evolution. That question became the core starting point of Merlot Studio. The brand was built from a perspective that sees dogs not as beings to be simply ‘protected,’ but as companions who move with us and share a chapter of life together.
How would you describe Merlot Studio’s design philosophy in a few words?
A restrained design centred on movement.
Every design begins with movement, and every detail must serve a purpose.
How do you approach designing products for dogs?
At Merlot Studio, design begins not with form, but with observing behaviour. I believe design should not be a decorative layer placed over function, but a natural outcome that emerges only after function is fully understood.
What is the process of developing your own patented materials and designs like? Where do you get the inspiration for them?
Inspiration often comes from outside the pet industry. I closely observe fields that deal with “emotional movement,” such as Korean traditional culture, geography, fashion, contemporary art, music, and outdoor culture. This comes from a desire for dogs to share in the deeply personal elements of a person’s roots, hometown, and taste.
For this reason, we are preparing an exhibition next year at a museum in Seoul that can be experienced together with dogs. It goes beyond simply allowing dogs into the museum. It is an art experience designed for dogs as well, incorporating elements they naturally enjoy, such as movement and scent.
Are there any products in your collection that have a special story or meaning?
The Ain™ collection. As its name suggests, short for “All-in,” it represents our first original design and patented technology.
How do you balance style and practicality in your designs?
Rather than ‘balancing,’ I prefer to say that we set clear priorities. Practicality is the guideline, and style is not something we consciously emphasise.
Merlot’s design aims for forms that feel instinctively right, much like the nature we love. Shapes that make sense without explanation. We intentionally avoid rigid, straight lines. “There are no straight lines in nature, as created by God.”
How is the relationship between people and dogs in Korea reflected in your work, and does it influence the way you design your products?
In Korea, dogs have moved beyond being confined to the home. They are companions who travel between the city and nature with us. Their range of activity is wide, from daily walks to cafes, travel, and even hiking.
That said, compared to European or American markets, especially after participating in Interzoo, it is undeniable that more time is still needed for broader cultural maturity.
Do you have a favourite product that you personally use for your dogs?
The Ardor™ Leash featuring our proprietary Tamna™ Clip, and the Tamna™ Puffer. Korea’s winters are not as harsh as many expect, and Tamna was the former name of Jeju Island, the hometown of my co-founder and wife.
Is there a message you’d like to share with the MUTTS community about your brand?
Time spent with a dog is shorter than we realise, and for that reason, it deserves greater care and intention.
“I hope Merlot is remembered as a brand that makes those moments more radiant, and one that plays a meaningful role in building a society where people and animals live together.”
This dedication to movement, combined with global research & development and innovative materials, has led to a range of technology and design breakthroughs that elevate your dogs everyday. Here are some of their technical solutions you can find at MUTTS:
Ain™ Technology
Merlot’s patented Ain™ design uses a triple-layer membrane: a durable, water-repellent outer layer, a fully waterproof film in the middle, and a soft inner mesh for comfort and moisture control. It can handle up to 20,000 mm of water pressure, similar to high-end outdoor tents. Seam sealing keeps water out at every stitch, and reinforced materials deliver strength up to 580 kg. This isn’t just fabric, it’s engineered to move, perform and protect in real conditions.
ArdorShock™
Patented ArdorShock™ cushions and absorbs impact as your dog moves, reducing pressure on joints and muscles. It helps keep dogs comfortable on long walks or during energetic play.
HY Structure
HY Structure is an ergonomic framework built into Merlot products to support natural posture and movement. Using 3D patterning and following joint angles and muscle groups, it reduces strain and ensures dogs of all sizes can move freely.
Pest Control
Merlot integrates EPA-approved chrysanthemum extract into fabrics using micro-encapsulation. This releases the active compounds slowly, providing over 90 percent effectiveness against ticks and mosquitoes even after 70 washes. It’s a long-lasting, safe and non-toxic way to help protect your dog.
ShelterLayer™ & LightLayer™ Fabrics
ShelterLayer™ and LightLayer™ fabrics work together to keep dogs comfortable in any condition. ShelterLayer™ traps warmth with a windproof outer shell and soft insulating inner layer without limiting movement. LightLayer™ adds lightweight, breathable softness for everyday activity while standing up to wear and play.
