Blue eyes in dogs are a captivating and rare trait that evokes a sense of mystery and allure. Known for their striking appearance, certain breeds are genetically predisposed to have these enchanting eyes. This unique feature can make these canines stand out in a crowd, often leaving lasting impressions on those they meet. From the icy gaze of the Siberian Husky to the soulful stare of the Australian Shepherd, blue-eyed dogs are truly a marvel to behold. Join us as we explore seven dog breeds renowned for their stunning blue eyes, each with its own charm and character.
There’s something undeniably enchanting about a pair of blue eyes staring back at you—especially when they belong to a dog. While brown eyes are the norm in most pups, blue-eyed dogs have a way of stealing the spotlight. These icy or sky-colored eyes are more than just a striking feature; they’re often tied to unique genetic traits.
According to research, a dog’s blue eyes can be influenced by several factors, including genes that affect coat color and pigmentation. Interestingly, dogs with predominantly white fur around their eyes are more prone to this rare trait.
While blue eyes are a rarity in the dog world—just as they are in humans—certain breeds, like the iconic Siberian Husky, are known for them. Their dazzling eyes are often linked to a unique genetic mutation found in a few other breeds.
Curious about which dogs are most likely to have these captivating peepers? Let’s dive into the list of 7 dog breeds that are blessed with beautiful blue eyes, and what this stunning feature could mean for your furry friend.
Dog Breeds with Blue Eyes
1. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are famous for their thick, lush coats, piercing blue eyes, and their resemblance to wolves. Interestingly, their striking blue eyes aren’t linked to the merle gene, as is the case with many other blue-eyed dogs. Instead, it’s believed to be tied to a unique genetic factor on the ALX4 canine chromosome.
This particular gene can reduce pigmentation in the irises while leaving the coat unaffected. Because this gene is dominant, even one copy is enough to produce those mesmerizing blue eyes in many Huskies.
When it comes to personality, Siberian Huskies are a delightful mix of charm and challenge. They’re friendly, sociable, and full of playful energy, making them great companions for active families. However, their “talkative” tendencies are legendary—they’re not shy about sharing their opinions or throwing the occasional tantrum if things don’t go their way!
To keep a Siberian Husky happy and healthy, regular exercise and mental stimulation are a must. These dogs thrive in environments where they can run, play, and engage their curious minds.
2. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, or Aussie, is a lively and hardworking breed that often carries the gene responsible for blue eyes. Known for their stunning coat patterns and vibrant personality, Aussies are a favorite among dog lovers. While their eyes can be brown, amber, or blue—all of which are fairly common—their blue eyes are typically linked to the merle gene.
This same gene can also cause heterochromia, giving them two different-colored eyes, which adds to their striking appearance. However, it’s worth noting that the merle gene can slightly increase the risk of hearing or vision issues in some dogs.
Aussies are adored for their gentle, affectionate nature and their ability to bond deeply with their families. They’re great with kids and tend to get along well with other pets, making them an excellent choice for households looking for a loyal, social companion.
One thing to keep in mind with an Aussie: they love being close to their people. It’s not unusual for them to follow their favorite humans from room to room, acting as a devoted shadow.
3. Old English Sheepdog
Hidden beneath their iconic shaggy fur, you might find eyes that are blue, brown, or even one of each, making their expressions all the more charming.
Old English Sheepdogs are one of the few white-coated breeds that often have naturally blue eyes. While blue eyes in many white dogs can sometimes signal medical concerns, that’s not the case with these fluffy giants—it’s a normal and beautiful trait in this English breed.
Originally bred to drive cattle, Old English Sheepdogs are big, strong, and full of heart. Today, they’re best known as loving family companions with a playful, sociable temperament. They tend to get along wonderfully with kids and fit well into most households that can handle their size and energy.
However, PetMD notes that it’s important to consider their grooming needs—those luxurious coats require regular maintenance—and their occasional herding instincts, which might lead them to “round up” family members or pets.
4. Border Collie
Border Collies are most often seen with brown or amber eyes, but some lucky ones sport stunning blue eyes. Blue eyes are typically associated with a merle coat in this breed, though it’s not unheard of to see them with other coat patterns. Dogs with significant white markings around their eyes and head are more likely to experience hearing or vision issues, but this isn’t a given for every blue-eyed Border Collie.
True to their working dog heritage, Border Collies are bursting with energy and intelligence. According to Greencross Vets, they’re agile, focused, and eager to please, making them exceptional companions for active families.
Their natural patience and control also make them stand out in the dog world. Border Collies thrive on daily exercise and mental stimulation—they’ll happily join in games of catch, frisbee, or even a splash in the ocean.
With their boundless energy, they’ll keep the whole family moving, turning exercise into a fun bonding experience. For those who love a challenge and enjoy an active lifestyle, a Border Collie can be the perfect four-legged partner.
5. Dalmatian
When you picture a Dalmatian, their unmistakable black-and-white spotted coat likely comes to mind first. But these famous firefighter mascots have some fascinating features in their eyes as well. While blue eyes are relatively rare in Dalmatians, they do occur. However, blue-eyed Dalmatians are more prone to hearing loss—a trait scientists haven’t fully unraveled yet.
Dalmatians are spirited, fun-loving dogs that thrive with active owners. Britannica notes that they’re affectionate and loyal to their families, often getting along well with other pets in the household.
That said, their energetic nature can be a bit overwhelming for very young children, and some may show aggression toward unfamiliar dogs. Interestingly, thanks to their history as carriage dogs, Dalmatians still seem to have an innate connection with horses.
With the right approach, Dalmatians are fairly easy to train since they’re quick learners. However, their curious minds can make them easily distracted, so patience and consistency are key.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a charming herding breed that often bears a striking resemblance to the Australian Shepherd, especially in its blue merle coat. Like Aussies, Shelties with this coloration can also have bright blue eyes, adding to their already striking appearance.
Shelties are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them quick learners and standout performers in obedience, agility, and herding competitions. As family dogs, they’re sensitive and deeply attuned to the emotions of their humans, often offering comfort and companionship when it’s needed most.
While they’re affectionate with loved ones, Shelties are naturally reserved around strangers and have a tendency to bark, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
With their working dog heritage, Shelties have plenty of energy to burn. They thrive on daily exercise and mental stimulation, but just as important is the love and attention they crave from their families.
7. Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai, often called just Klee Kai, is a captivating breed with a striking resemblance to the larger Siberian or Alaskan Husky. Like many snow dogs, they often boast beautiful blue eyes that add to their allure. But don’t let their husky-like appearance fool you—these spitz-type dogs come with their own unique personality.
Quick, curious, and incredibly smart, Klee Kai is playful and full of energy. While they’re friendly with their families, they can be a bit reserved around strangers, a trait that makes them excellent watchdogs. Unlike their husky cousins, they’re surprisingly trainable, which is a big plus for first-time owners looking for a compact yet loyal companion.
To keep Klee Kai happy and healthy, they need at least an hour of exercise and mental stimulation each day. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a game of fetch, or a fun training session, these agile dogs thrive on activity.
Hill’s Pet adds that they’re also incredibly attached to their owners and are happiest when by your side, ready to “talk” or howl their thoughts. Thankfully, they’re not excessive barkers, but they do have a lot of personality packed into their small frames!
Conclusion
Blue-eyed dogs truly have a magical quality, with their icy blue eyes often capturing the hearts of anyone who meets them. While our list focused on some of the most striking examples with baby blues, it’s worth noting that breeds like the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Catahoula Leopard Dog are also known for occasionally having this captivating eye color.
Though not featured in detail here, their unique appearances and traits make them just as fascinating. Interestingly, playful dogs such as the Great Dane and the American Pit Bull Terrier can sometimes have blue or even green eyes, adding another layer of charm to their already impressive presence.
It’s important to remember that a dog’s eyes, especially those with unique colors like blue or green, can sometimes signal health issues, particularly in dogs with merle coats or all-white coats. However, for most breeds, their eye color doesn’t affect their ability to be wonderful companion dogs or great family pets.
From the playful energy of merle-coated Border Collies to the intense gaze of the Alaskan Malamute, dogs with blue eyes come in many shapes and sizes. Whether they’re recognized by the American Kennel Club or are considered extremely rare, these dogs tend to leave an unforgettable impression. With proper care, these stunning pups can be loyal and loving additions to any household, just like other dogs known for their affectionate nature.
Blue-eyed dogs are truly captivating, with their striking gaze adding an extra layer of charm to their personalities. Among the diverse array of breeds known for this stunning trait, each offers unique characteristics that go beyond their mesmerizing appearance. From the energetic Siberian Husky to the spirited Australian Shepherd, these breeds often exhibit intelligence, loyalty, and a strong bond with their owners. While their blue eyes may initially capture our attention, it is the blend of beauty and temperament that endears these dogs to families and individuals alike, enhancing the special companionship between humans and their canine companions.