Most dogs usually have brown eyes, making blue eyes a rare trait. Blue eyes in dogs can occur for a few different reasons, including genetics and specific coat patterns like merle. Blue eyes in dogs are usually caused by genetics, pigment dilution, or specific coat patterns like merle. While rare overall, some dog breeds with blue eyes are more likely to inherit this striking trait than other breeds. In this article, you’ll discover 30 unique dog breeds with blue eyes and what makes each one so special.
1. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are one of the most iconic blue-eyed breeds. Their ice blue eyes are the result of a genetic mutation in the ALX4 gene, which is located on a specific canine chromosome—not related to coat color. They can also have heterochromia or parti-colored eyes, making each Husky visually unique. Siberian Huskies may also have partially blue eyes or even two different colors within the same eye, a phenomenon known as ‘same eye,’ both of which are striking variations resulting from genetic factors.
- Group: Working
- Height: 20–23.5 inches
- Weight: 35–60 pounds
- Coat: Thick double coat
- Colors: Black, white, gray, red, sable
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Temperament: Energetic, loyal, outgoing
- Origin: Siberia
- Blue Eyes? Very common
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are a herding breed and often have one or both blue eyes, especially those with merle coats. Their striking eyes can appear as solid blue, marbled, or split—adding to their already eye-catching appearance.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 18–23 inches
- Weight: 40–65 pounds
- Coat: Medium, wavy
- Colors: Blue merle, red merle, black, red
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Smart, active, work-driven
- Australian Shepherds were originally bred to herd livestock and are best suited for active families who can meet their high exercise needs.
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Common in merles
3. Border Collie
Most Border Collies do not have blue eyes; this trait is rare and is influenced by genetic factors, such as the merle gene or certain recessive genes. While not all Border Collies have blue eyes, those with merle patterns or lighter coat colors often do. Blue eyes in this breed add to their intense and alert expression, perfect for a breed that’s always observing and thinking. Genetic factors that cause blue eyes in Border Collies can also be associated with health risks like deafness or vision problems.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 18–22 inches
- Weight: 30–45 pounds
- Coat: Medium length, rough or smooth
- Colors: Black and white, merle, red
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, responsive
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally in merles
4. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner’s pale, ghostly appearance is matched by its eye color—puppies are often born with striking blue eyes that may turn gray or light amber with age. Weimaraners are often called the ‘Gray Ghost’ due to their distinctive silver-gray coat and striking appearance. Some adult Weimaraners retain blue eyes, but this is rare in the breed.
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 23–27 inches
- Weight: 55–90 pounds
- Coat: Short and sleek
- Colors: Silver-gray
- Lifespan: 10–13 years
- Temperament: Energetic, alert, friendly
- Origin: Germany
- Blue Eyes? Common in puppies, rare in adults
5. Dalmatian
Blue eyes in Dalmatians are usually associated with the gene responsible for both coat and eye pigmentation, commonly known as the piebald gene. White spotting and all white coat patterns are caused by this same gene and can be linked to blue eyes. However, this trait can also be linked to a higher risk of congenital deafness, particularly in dogs with two blue eyes.
- Group: Non-sporting
- Height: 19–24 inches
- Weight: 45–70 pounds
- Coat: Short and dense
- Colors: White with black or liver spots
- Lifespan: 11–13 years
- Temperament: Outgoing, dignified, energetic
- Origin: Croatia
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, often linked to deafness
According to the American Kennel Club, blue eyes in Dalmatians may be disqualified in the show ring.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes are already eye-catching due to their sheer size, but their stunning blue eyes—especially in merle or harlequin-coated individuals—add even more wow factor. Merle coat patterns are often associated with blue eyes in this breed, making these dogs particularly distinctive. Though less common, their light eyes give them an elegant and striking appearance.
- Group: Working
- Height: 28–34 inches
- Weight: 100–200 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth
- Colors: Harlequin, merle, black, blue, fawn, brindle
- Lifespan: 7–10 years
- Temperament: Friendly, gentle, dependable
- Origin: Germany
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, especially in merles
Blue eyes are permitted in the show ring for Great Danes with merle coat patterns.
7. Catahoula Leopard Dog
Many Catahoula Leopard Dogs can have light blue eyes, contributing to their wild, spotted coats and vivid eyes—often blue, or even marbled. Their unique color patterns, such as merle and brindle, add to their striking appearance. These dogs frequently have heterochromia and their intense gaze is a hallmark of the breed.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 20–26 inches
- Weight: 50–95 pounds
- Coat: Short, dense
- Colors: Merle, black, red, brindle
- Lifespan: 10–14 years
- Temperament: Independent, loyal, energetic
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Very common
8. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Unlike their Pembroke cousins, Cardigan Welsh Corgis are herding dogs known for their bright blue eyes, which are a frequent trait—especially in blue merle coats. Their short stature paired with piercing eyes creates a distinctive look.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 10.5–12.5 inches
- Weight: 25–38 pounds
- Coat: Medium, dense
- Colors: Blue merle, brindle, sable, black
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Affectionate, smart, alert
- Origin: Wales
- Blue Eyes? Common in merles
9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Blue eyes in Pembroke Welsh Corgis are rare but not impossible, particularly in those with unique or non-standard coat patterns. Most Pembrokes, however, have brown eyes as the norm.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 10–12 inches
- Weight: 24–30 pounds
- Coat: Medium, straight
- Colors: Red, sable, fawn, black and tan
- Lifespan: 12–13 years
- Temperament: Outgoing, playful, bold
- Origin: Wales
- Blue Eyes? Rare
10. Shetland Sheepdog
Blue eyes in Shetland Sheepdogs (or Shelties) are typically seen in those with merle coloring. Their intelligent eyes and expressive faces are part of what makes them such beloved companions.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 13–16 inches
- Weight: 15–25 pounds
- Coat: Long, straight, double coat
- Colors: Sable, black, blue merle
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, alert
- Origin: Scotland
- Blue Eyes? Common in merles
11. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs may occasionally have one or two blue eyes, a trait often associated with their merle-like coats or genetic quirks. Their fluffy appearance paired with bright eyes gives them a charming, teddy bear-like appeal.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 21–24 inches
- Weight: 60–100 pounds
- Coat: Long, shaggy
- Colors: Gray and white, blue and white
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Adaptable, gentle, playful
- Origin: England
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally
12. Alaskan Klee Kai
This miniature Husky look-alike often inherits blue eyes from its northern ancestry. Their compact size and alert, intelligent gaze make them a favorite among fans of spitz-type dogs.
- Group: Companion
- Height: 13–17 inches
- Weight: 10–20 pounds
- Coat: Double coat
- Colors: Black and white, red and white, gray and white
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Curious, alert, energetic, high energy
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Common
13. Alaskan Malamute
Though often confused with Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes rarely have blue eyes. When they do, it’s typically due to crossbreeding or rare genetic variation, not a standard trait of the breed.
- Group: Working
- Height: 23–25 inches
- Weight: 75–100 pounds
- Coat: Thick double coat
- Colors: Black, gray, sable, red, white
- Lifespan: 10–14 years
- Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, strong-willed
- Origin: Alaska
- Blue Eyes? Rare
14. Dachshund
In Dachshunds, the dapple gene is responsible for the dapple pattern and can cause blue eyes—often one blue and one brown. The dapple gene is also associated with certain health risks, such as deafness and blindness. These little wiener dogs pack a lot of personality behind their expressive eyes.
- Group: Hound
- Height: 5–9 inches
- Weight: 11–32 pounds
- Coat: Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired; Dachshunds can also have a merle coat.
- Colors: Red, black and tan, chocolate, dapple
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Clever, curious, brave Dachshunds were originally bred for hunting badgers in Germany.
- Origin: Germany
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally in dapples
15. French Bulldog
Blue eyes in French Bulldogs are most often seen in merle-colored individuals or those with light coat colors. While striking, this trait is often linked to specific breeding practices that require close health monitoring.
- Group: Non-sporting
- Height: 11–13 inches
- Weight: Under 28 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth
- Colors: Fawn, cream, brindle, merle
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Adaptable, playful, affectionate
- Origin: France
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, especially in merles
16. American Pit Bull Terrier
Though not recognized by the AKC, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a beloved breed known for strength and loyalty. Blue eyes may appear in some individuals—especially those with dilute coats or unique pigmentation. However, while some pit bulls are born with blue eyes, most adult pit bulls typically have gray, brown, or amber eyes.
- Group: Terrier (not AKC recognized)
- Height: 17–21 inches
- Weight: 30–65 pounds
- Coat: Short, stiff
- Colors: Wide range including blue, brindle, red
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, confident, surprisingly gentle, and make great family pets
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, often in puppies or dilute colors
17. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers can sometimes have one or both blue eyes, especially in seal or brindle coats with white markings. This eye color adds to their already quirky and charming appearance.
- Group: Non-sporting
- Height: 15–17 inches
- Weight: 12–25 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth
- Colors: Black, brindle, seal with white
- Lifespan: 11–13 years
- Temperament: Friendly, lively, intelligent
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally
18. Bull Terrier
Blue eyes in Bull Terriers are not the norm, but they can show up—usually as a result of genetic variation or coat dilution. Their egg-shaped heads and muscular build give them a unique silhouette.
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 21–22 inches
- Weight: 50–70 pounds
- Coat: Short, flat
- Colors: White, black, brindle
- Lifespan: 12–13 years
- Temperament: Playful, courageous, mischievous
- Origin: England
- Blue Eyes? Rare
19. Boxer
While not typical, blue eyes can occasionally appear in Boxers—usually when they’re young or if they carry diluted genes. Most adult Boxers develop dark brown eyes as they mature.
- Group: Working
- Height: 21–25 inches
- Weight: 55–70 pounds
- Coat: Short, shiny
- Colors: Fawn, brindle, white
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Loyal, energetic, intelligent
- Origin: Germany
- Blue Eyes? Rare, mostly in puppies or white Boxers
20. English Bulldog
Occasionally, English Bulldogs—especially those with white or merle coats—may have blue eyes. While it’s not a breed standard trait, it adds a unique twist to their famously wrinkled faces.
- Group: Non-sporting
- Height: 14–15 inches
- Weight: 40–50 pounds
- Coat: Smooth, short
- Colors: White, brindle, red, fawn
- Lifespan: 8–10 years
- Temperament: Calm, courageous, affectionate
- Origin: England
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, often linked to coat patterns
21. American Staffordshire Terrier
Blue eyes are occasionally seen in American Staffordshire Terriers, particularly in those with dilute coat colors like blue or fawn. While not a standard trait, they add an intense and memorable expression.
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 17–19 inches
- Weight: 40–70 pounds
- Coat: Short, stiff
- Colors: All colors, often blue, red, or brindle
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Confident, good-natured, intelligent
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, especially in dilute coats
22. Pomsky
As a designer hybrid between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, the Pomsky often inherits the striking blue eyes of its Husky parent. Their fluffy coats and small size make them eye-catching and adorable.
- Group: Hybrid
- Height: 10–15 inches
- Weight: 20–30 pounds
- Coat: Fluffy double coat
- Colors: Black, white, gray, mixed
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Playful, vocal, loyal; requires plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Very common
23. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs may rarely have blue eyes, but it’s not typical. Their name can be confusing—“blue heeler” refers to coat color, not eye color. However, merle-related mixes may sometimes show blue eyes.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 17–20 inches
- Weight: 35–50 pounds
- Coat: Short, dense
- Colors: Blue, red speckled
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Alert, loyal, energetic
- Origin: Australia
- Blue Eyes? Rare in purebreds
24. English Setter
Though not especially common, blue eyes can sometimes appear in English Setters with lighter Belton coat patterns. These dogs are elegant, gentle, and beloved for their graceful movement and sweet nature.
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 23–27 inches
- Weight: 45–80 pounds
- Coat: Long, silky
- Colors: Belton patterns (speckled)
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Gentle, friendly, calm
- Origin: England
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally in light coats
25. Labrador Retriever
Labradors typically have brown or hazel eyes, but blue eyes may occasionally appear in silver Labs (a diluted version of the chocolate coat). These instances are rare and not considered standard.
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 21.5–24.5 inches
- Weight: 55–80 pounds
- Coat: Short, dense, water-resistant
- Colors: Black, yellow, chocolate, silver
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, trainable
- Origin: Canada
- Blue Eyes? Rare, mostly in silver Labs
26. German Shepherd
German Shepherds don’t typically have blue eyes, but rare color variants—like those with the blue or liver dilution gene—may occasionally show this trait. It’s a striking contrast to their confident, alert demeanor.
- Group: Herding
- Height: 22–26 inches
- Weight: 50–90 pounds
- Coat: Medium, double coat
- Colors: Black, tan, sable, blue
- Lifespan: 9–13 years
- Temperament: Loyal, confident, protective
- Origin: Germany
- Blue Eyes? Rare, typically in diluted colors
27. Chihuahua
Blue eyes in Chihuahuas are rare but possible, especially in those with merle coats. Their small size and alert personalities are even more memorable when paired with bright or mismatched eyes.
- Group: Toy
- Height: 5–8 inches
- Weight: Under 6 pounds
- Coat: Smooth or long
- Colors: Many, including merle
- Lifespan: 14–17 years
- Temperament: Alert, spirited, loyal
- Origin: Mexico
- Blue Eyes? Occasionally, especially in merles
28. Beagle
Though most Beagles have brown eyes, blue eyes can occur—particularly in lemon-colored coats or mixes. It’s not standard, but it adds a unique charm to their always-curious expression.
- Group: Hound
- Height: 13–15 inches
- Weight: 20–30 pounds
- Coat: Short, dense
- Colors: Tricolor, lemon, red and white
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Temperament: Curious, friendly, merry
- Origin: England
- Blue Eyes? Rare
29. American Eskimo Dog
While American Eskimo Dogs usually have dark eyes, blue eyes may rarely show up due to genetic anomalies or crossbreeding. Their thick, white coats make any light-colored eyes especially striking.
- Group: Non-sporting
- Height: 9–19 inches
- Weight: 6–35 pounds
- Coat: Long, fluffy
- Colors: White or cream
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Smart, friendly, alert
- Origin: United States
- Blue Eyes? Rare
30. Maltese
The Maltese is typically known for dark, expressive eyes, but very rarely, a blue-eyed individual may appear—most often due to albinism or extreme dilution. While not standard, it’s certainly eye-catching.
- Group: Toy
- Height: 7–9 inches
- Weight: Under 7 pounds
- Coat: Long, silky
- Colors: White
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Gentle, playful, charming
- Origin: Malta
- Blue Eyes? Extremely rare
What Causes Blue Eyes in Dogs?
There are a few different reasons for blue eyes in dogs, including genetic factors and color patterns. The gene responsible for blue eyes can also influence coat color and is often a recessive gene. The same gene can affect both eye color and coat color, and may be linked to health issues such as deafness or vision problems. Eye development and the presence of different eye colors are influenced by these genetic factors. Merle coat is one of the color patterns associated with blue eyes, especially in breeds like Australian Shepherds and Dachshunds. Common genes include the merle gene, piebald gene, and dilution gene — all of which affect pigmentation. Heterochromia (having two different colored eyes) is also genetically influenced and seen in several breeds on this list.
Are Blue Eyes Linked to Health Problems?
Sometimes. In certain breeds, blue eyes — especially in dogs carrying certain genes such as the dapple gene — are associated with health risks, including a higher risk of deafness or vision problems. In Dachshunds, the dapple gene causes distinctive dappled coat patterns and is linked to inherited health issues like deafness and blindness, particularly in dogs with blue eyes. However, this is not always the case. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary care greatly reduce these risks. Regular vet visits can help catch potential health issues early and recommend additional protective measures for these sensitive dogs.
Summary
Blue eyes in dogs are a rare and striking feature caused by genetics, coat patterns, and pigment dilution. While some breeds, like Huskies and Australian Shepherds, are known for this trait, others may only occasionally display it—often due to specific gene variations. These icy gazes add charm, but they can sometimes be linked to health concerns like vision or hearing issues, particularly in breeds with merle or piebald genes.
Before choosing a blue-eyed dog, it’s important to consider more than just appearance—temperament, health, and lifestyle compatibility matter most. With proper research and care, a blue-eyed dog can be a healthy, happy, and unforgettable companion.
Want to explore more about dog traits, health, and behaviors? Dive into our expert tips and breed guides at our dog behavior and breed insights hub to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
FAQs
Are blue eyes rare in dogs?
Yes, they’re less common than brown eyes, but certain breeds carry genes that make them more likely.
Can dogs have one blue eye and one brown eye?
Yes! This condition is called heterochromia and is common in breeds like Huskies and Australian Shepherds.
Are blue-eyed dogs more prone to health issues?
Not always, but in some genetic combinations (like double merle), they may be at higher risk of deafness or eye problems.
Do puppies keep their blue eyes forever?
Not necessarily. Many puppies are born with blue eyes, but the color can change as they mature, especially in breeds like Labs or Weimaraners.
Should I choose a dog based on eye color?
While blue eyes are beautiful, it’s best to choose a dog based on temperament, lifestyle fit, and health considerations rather than appearance alone.