I think that we can all agree that blue eyes are wonderful, whether we see them on a human or on a dog. Blue-eyed dogs are not so common, so we must find the reason behind this gorgeous eye color.
Some dog breeds naturally have icy blue eyes that we associate with them, while others have blue eyes due to a recessive gene.
Blue eyes are often seen in dogs that have coat color in piebald (a white coat with points) or merle (mottled markings). So, if your dog has a piebald or merle gene, it cannot create pigment, and therefore, blue eyes appear. Just like that, albino dogs don’t have melanin pigmentation, and they are often seen with blue eyes.
When it comes to heterochromia, it is often seen with some dogs like huskies that often have two different colored eyes; however, if you see that your dog’s eyes are changing colors, they may have health problems such as glaucoma or cataracts. Double-merle dogs are commonly known to have many health issues due to blue eye genes.
Purebred Blue-Eyed Dogs
Blue eyes result from a lack of pigment in the eyes, just like it happens with humans. Let’s see what the purebred blue-eyed dogs are!
1. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is the most popular of all spotted dog breeds, and we often wouldn’t associate this dog breed with blue eyes, but it can happen – rarely, but they exist.
However, a blue-eyed dog like the Dalmatian will be prone to hearing loss, and the connection between blue-eyed genes and hearing problems are unknown to this day.
The Dalmatian can have combination eyes of brown and blue. He is definitely distinguishable from other spotted dog breeds.
This dog is loyal, but keeping up with their character can sometimes be overwhelming, and with that being said, the Dalmatian needs positive reinforcement training with a firm owner. This process should start from an early age.
They are medium shedders that need regular brushing; however, their coat won’t need frequent baths – only when they get themselves into a large puddle of mud.
This dog with a speckled coat pattern will excel at being a great jogger and an overall good family dog.
2. Siberian Husky
One of the most popular blue-eyed dogs is none other than the Siberian Husky. When you hear the term ‘blue eyed dog’, the first name that pops up in your head is this pooch. Their icy-blue eyes are their trademark, along with their fluffy fur.
But, blue eyes is not the only eye color that a Siberian Husky can have as their eyes may appear brown or in a combination of blue and brown. ALX4 canine chromosome 18 is often associated with the blue eyes that this cutie is known for.
This wolf-like dog breed was bred to be a sled dog, but over time, they gained popularity and became wonderful companion dogs. However, they love to be active, so a family that adores outdoor activities is the perfect option for a Husky.
This dog breed is intelligent and energetic, but their stubbornness is on another level. It is better to start regular training early in order to mentally stimulate him and avoid problems. And, for newbies… the advice is that you better bypass it.
Their charming fluffy coat doesn’t require much bathing, but they are heavy shedders, and during shedding periods, they’ll need intense brushing.
3. Great Dane
The Great Dane, as being one of the tallest dog breeds on Earth adorned with charming blue eyes, will turn many heads, let me tell you. As with most dog breeds, Great Dane puppies are born with blue eyes, and over time, while maturing, that eye color changes to brown.
However, some of the Great Danes keep their blue eyes, and that is mostly the case with merle and dapple-coated harlequin Great Danes. Black and white Great Danes may have heterochromia.
These gentle giants are highly protective of their family, and they‘ll make great watchdogs. You wouldn’t think that these dogs are adaptable to homes of all sizes, but it’s the truth.
4. Australian Shepherd
Merle Australian Shepherds are those Aussies that are most likely to sport light blue eyes. They are also prone to heterochromia.
These dogs are full of energy, and are gentle with kids. They tend to form deep connections with members of the family. As they were used for herding, they thrive when you give them agility tasks. That’s why this dog breed is suited for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Their eyes are not the only thing that makes Aussies special. Aussies can come in a variety of colors and shades such as merle, red merle, blue merle, black, black tricolor, red tricolor, and more. This dog‘s coat is medium in length, wavy, and easy to take care of. Weekly brushing and bathing from time to time will satisfy.
Blue eyes are recognized in the show ring, along with amber, brown, and their combinations. This dog is likely to be the perfect family dog.
5. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a small, but sturdy dog that has a long body with short legs. The Corgi’s ears are upright and large. Now, to that special look, add wonderful blue eyes and you have the perfect looking pet.
Just like the sausage dog, the Corgi can have both colors in one eye. The Corgi comes in many different colors, but the merle Corgi is one of the dogs that can have unique eye colors.
Both Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis can have blue eyes, but a blue merle Corgi will most likely sport the amazing blue color.
6. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is known for its unique coat colors that give us the ghost aesthetic. These lovely doggos were bred in Germany to hunt; lately, their popularity has risen into being companion dogs.
Their look is adorned with eyes in the colors of blue or amber. Weimers tend to have an active and loving disposition, and lately, they make wonderful family dogs as they are eager to please and have a very gentle approach.
The AKC allows for blue-gray eyes, but most Weimaraners have the gorgeous amber eyes. These dogs are energetic, and as such, they need frequent exercise. If you like to run, guess what? This dog will be your perfect running buddy!
Regarding grooming, they are low-maintenance, but you need to watch out for their floppy ears as they are prone to ear infections.
As smart as they are, they can be a little challenging for you to train, but if you train them regularly, there won’t be a problem.
7. Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the smartest dog breeds that also has an amazing look. The Border Collie’s eyes can come in gold, brown, or our desired blue. As with many dog breeds, blue eyes are likely to appear in those dogs that have a merle coat.
This energetic dog breed needs mental and physical tasks in order to thrive, so keep in mind that they adore agility competitions. They are heavy shedders, so prepare yourself for a lot of grooming.
8. German Shepherd
For the most part, a German Shepherd will have dark-colored eyes in brown and black. But, miracles do happen as a German Shepherd can have blue eyes. This variant is extremely rare, but it is one of the cutest blue-eyed dogs I have ever seen.
This happens due to genetic variation. This is probably the reason why the AKC doesn’t recognize blue eyes in GSDs. German Shepherds can also be parti-eyed. This dog is energetic and good looking either way.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent dog breed, and early training is the key. However, they’ll enjoy any task that you give them, so make sure to do your part.
They are great family dogs, and they’ll protect your family. The German Shepherd tends to bark a lot, so keep in mind that neighbors may not find your doggo as cute as you do.
9. Dachshund
The blue-eyed Dachshund is not welcomed in shows, but that doesn’t make them less beautiful. These dogs can have blue-eye variations if they have a merle coat. Their eye colors include one blue and one brown, both blue eyes, or both colors in one eye. These sausage dogs can also have green eyes.
These brave dogs are bred to hunt, so don’t be surprised by their excellence in being great watchdogs.
But, dapple Dachshunds are most likely to sport the blue-eye gene.
10. Pitbull
Pitbull puppies are born with blue eyes; however, over time, that color changes. But, adult blue-eyed Pitbulls exist, and they are often those Pits with a brindle, gray, or blue coat.
When we say Pitbull, we mean the American Pit Bull Terrier or the American Staffordshire Terrier. Bully breeds like those are loving pets that search for a lively family.
Worth mentioning is a Red-Nose Pitbull that can have charming amber eyes.
RELATED: Champagne Pitbull – Is This The Most Beautiful Pitbull Color?
11. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog (mostly called the Sheltie) is a herding dog that resembles an Aussie a bit. Just like their lookalikes, Shelties can sport blue eyes, for the most part, if they have a merle coat.
Due to their origins as herding dogs, they have plenty of energy that needs to be released. They are very intelligent, and will thrive when they have something to do. They are easy to train, but make sure to always keep them busy in order to develop a habit of it.
Even though the AKC doesn’t prefer blue eyes in these dogs, they allow this eye color with those coats that are blue merle. The coats of Shelties need regular brushing and grooming, so make sure you have all the equipment needed.
12. Alaskan Klee Kai
This interesting wolf-like dog breed is a smaller cousin of the Siberian Husky, and it was bred to be a companion dog – not a working dog. Their eyes are charming, coming in green, icy-blue, hazel, or brown.
Their small size is not great if you want a guard dog, but if you want a small companion that is fast, curious, and a super watchdog, then the Alaskan Klee Kai is the perfect fit.
13. Catahoula Leopard Dog
These leopard dogs have a spotted coat that can appear in chocolate, gray, black, red, blue, or cream. Just as with fur, their eyes can come in a variety of colors, such as blue, brown, green, amber, or a combination of colors.
Most Catahoula Leopard dogs come with merle patterns, with spots of many different colors. As this breed was bred to hunt and herd, it needs a lot of daily activity to release its energy.
Those Catahoulas that have a merle coat are often associated with blue eyes. They need mental and physical stimulation due to their intelligence.
14. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog (or often called the Blue Heeler) can sometimes have blue eyes. Even though the AKC prefers dark brown eyes with this athlete dog, they rock blue-colored eyes.
Regarding their coat, they are not high-maintenance, but when it comes to their energy, that’s where the real job begins. They are bred to be working dogs, so it’s in their nature to have plenty of energy that needs to be released through daily activities.
As they are an intelligent dog breed, training can be challenging, but early socialization and frequent training will help mold that stubbornness into a dog that is well-mannered and happy.
You can check the Blue Heeler growth chart to see how big this dog can be!
15. Cocker Spaniel
This dog breed often has dark-colored eyes; however, a merle Cocker Spaniel can have blue eyes from time to time. Due to his large, dreamy eyes, the blue color comes to the fore. However, it often indicates that the Cocker Spaniel will suffer from hearing loss.
These cuties have plenty of energy due to being hunting dogs, and they’ll need a lot of exercise, so next time you go for a walk, make sure to bring your canine friend with you. You may also play with them down the road.
16. Labrador Retriever
Most Labrador Retrievers are born with light blue eyes; however, they grow out of that color and have mostly dark-colored eyes. Labradors come in a variety of colors, but mostly, a Silver or Chocolate Labrador won’t grow out of the blue eyes. They may stay blue or even fade into green. Wonderful, isn’t it?
The Chocolate Labrador is mentioned for a reason. Most Chocolate Labradors tend to have hazel or brown eyes, but when genes play their game, the brown pup has a blue eye pop up.
These dogs are sweet and family oriented, and there is no doubt that they make wonderful family dogs.
17. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a gentle dog that naturally has blue eyes as they are cousins of Siberian Huskies. These fluffy snow dogs can grow very big, and weigh up to 84 pounds. No wonder they make powerful sled dogs.
After they finish their work, their favorite thing is to snuggle with their humans. This dog breed is loyal, affectionate, and full of happiness; however, they need clear boundaries, and need to respect you in order to have a healthy relationship.
RELATED: Top 7 Reputable Alaskan Malamute Breeders In The U.S. (2022)
18. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, often called the Italian Mastiff, is another dog that can have blue eyes. Cane Corsos come in many different colors; however, a Cane Corso that has a silver or a blue coat will more likely have blue eyes.
Even though they have a mighty appearance, and can make you feel intimidated, their nature is actually chill. However, they are dominant dogs, but with proper socialization, they can be great family dogs.
19. Boxer
Photo from: @parskopekpansiyonu
This cutie, although one of the scariest dog breeds, is actually goofy and fun. They will lighten up your day in an instant.
However, this dog, as being very energetic, needs its time to “go crazy”, so you need to allow him that, but bear in mind that you must set boundaries.
Boxers are adorned with a short coat that will not require much brushing and grooming. One thing that is also important to say is Boxers are sensitive to extreme weather, so keep that in mind.
20. Shih Tzu
Just like many babies are born with blue eyes, when puppies, this dog breed tends to have blue eyes. However, their eye color darkens, and most often, it becomes black. But, don’t give up yet!
Although rare, there are Shih Tzus whose eye color hasn’t changed. We love it, but the AKC considers it a fault. However, that doesn’t change the fact that these dogs are gorgeous!
Their flowing coat requires daily brushing if you want to keep this dog beautiful and shiny. But, they don’t shed often so that is a plus. Shih Tzus are known for being great with kids, so they’ll make wonderful family pets.
However, they can be a bit challenging to train, but frequent and positive early training will do.
21. Neapolitan Mastiff
A wrinkly dog breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff that has blue eyes is not welcomed in the AKC; however, canine lovers are big fans of this variant.
This dog breed exudes confidence, strength, and independence. That being sad, for novice owners, this dog is not recommended. But, if you have some experience with positive training and patience, know that these dogs are really sweet.
They will require regular exercise due to their joint stiffness. On the plus side, their coat doesn’t require much grooming.
22. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are almost the only one of the white dog breeds that can have blue eyes by nature. As it is known, blue eyes in white-colored dogs often refer to some health problems. However, that is not the case with this dog breed.
The eye colors that are recognized by the AKC are brown, blue, or one of each eye color. When this dog develops the gene for blue eyes, their eyes are often lighter than with other blue-eyed dogs.
They are big and require a lot of maintenance. Their coat will need some work, and they will also require frequent exercise. First-time dog owners should avoid this breed due to their stubbornness.
23. English Setter
English Setters are known for having brown eyes; however, they can have baby blue eyes, as rare as it is. They are also known for their charming coat colors and patterns, and their speckled fur.
An English Setter that is piebald and merle in coat will be prone to deafness.
24. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog came into the world as a result of crossbreeding Toy Bulldogs in France. This little cutie, often called a Frenchie, can come in a variety of different color combinations.
However, they are most often carriers of dark color genes. But, French Bulldogs with a merle coat are most likely to have blue eyes.
RELATED: The Blue Merle Bulldog: The French And English Edition
25. Poodle
Poodles with blue eyes are really rare, but it is possible for Poodles to have blue eyes. This dog breed is hypoallergenic, so it is suitable for those with allergies.
The Merle Poodle is likely to have blue eyes due to the merle gene, but other reasons for a Poodle to have blue eyes are eye disease or Heterochromia.
Mixed Breeds With Blue Eyes
26. The Husky German Shepherd Mix
Photo from: @livingnaturally_bri
Both large breeds will produce a large mix that will need a lot of space for both physical and mental stimulation.
27. Pomsky
Photo from: @pomsky_bestdogs
The Pomeranian origin has to do with the Husky breed, so it’s logical that they can inherit blue eyes. However, this breed is prone to heterochromia.
Bear in mind that a Pomsky with blue eyes is way more expensive than a Pomsky with dark eyes.
28. Saint Berhusky
Photo from: @maddiethebermastiff
The Saint Berhusky is a mix of a Husky and a Saint Bernard, and it will weigh up to 100 pounds due to both large parents. It is known that this dog is prone to having heterochromia.
29. Husky Inu
Photo from: @sirius_furboys
The Husky Inu is a mix of two snow dogs – the Shiba Inu and the Siberian Husky. Husky Inus have foxy features of both parent breeds, and they often resemble a Pomsky.
They will inherit an eye color that will probably be light blue; however, they may have different eye colors. If you’re looking for a baby blue that will show you unconditional love, this is the right option.
30. Border Aussie
Photo from: @rileyhikes
Not many dog breeds have the gene for blue eyes – that is where hybrids come in. Now, the Border Aussie is a crossbreed of the Aussie and the Border Collie.
Both parents carry the gene, but the Aussie’s is more common; nonetheless, this hybrid will be adorned with a merle coat and blue eyes. Their appearance will leave you speechless.
This hybrid dog doesn’t only have the looks, they can be extremely cuddly, and their agile disposition is extraordinary.
31. Huskador
Photo from: @lady_pugh_
32. Goberian
Photo from: @kodathegolberian
This puppy is known for its high energy levels, and he needs an owner who is ready to keep up with his pace.
33. Husky Corgi Mix
Photo from: @katieskennel
This mix is very energetic. It is usually medium-sized, and people often refer to it as the Horgi.
34. Aussie Siberian
Photo from: @itsjuliusthedog
An Aussie Siberian is a mix of dog breeds that are often associated with blue eyes – the Australian Shepherd and the Siberian Husky, so what are the chances of an Aussie Siberian having blue eyes?
Almost 100%. Since both parent breeds are carriers of the gene, this hybrid will probably have light blue eyes.
35. Aussiedor
Photo from: @aussiedor_of_soul_dog
The Aussiedor is often described as a medium-sized dog that can grow up to 80 pounds. The Aussiedor makes a wonderful family companion as both parent breeds are gentle.
RELATED: 23 Australian Shepherd Mixes: Meet Cute Aussie Dog Breeds
36. Aussiepoo
Photo from: @leo.miniaussiedoodle
Another Aussie mix that can have blue eyes is definitely the Aussiepoo. The chances that the Aussiepoo will have blue eyes are huge as both parent breeds, the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle, can carry the gene. However, blue eyes in Poodles are rare.
Final Thoughts
Most dog breeds have brown eye color, and for that reason, blue-eyed dogs are special in so many ways. So, if you are in search of a dog with baby blues, you must be aware that purebreds that are likely to have another eye color than blue are Golden Retrievers, Beagles, Poodles, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Labrador Retrievers, and so on.
However, if you mix them with other dog breeds, you may have a puppy with blue eyes. Another case that can cause a dog to have blue eyes is albinism, but that is extremely rare.
No matter what the eye color of the dog is, the important thing that you must look for is its personality, and with proper care and much love, any dog with any eye color will be the best dog for you!