Dogs with Blue Eyes: Breeds, Genetics & Care Tips

There's something utterly enchanting about a dog with blue eyes. That piercing, icy gaze can stop anyone in their tracks and often leaves people wondering: Why do some dogs have blue eyes? In this blog, we’ll dive into genetics, explore the top dog breeds with blue eyes, and answer common questions about blue-eyed pups.

Whether you're looking for blue eyed puppy breeds or curious about the different types of blue eyes, we’ve got you covered.

Why Do Dogs Have Blue Eyes?

Blue eyes in dogs are caused by a lack of pigment (melanin) in the iris, and they’re often linked to specific genes like:

Merle gene: Creates mottled coat and eye color, commonly seen in Australian Shepherds and Border Collies.
Piebald gene: Affects coat and eye pigment, seen in breeds like Dalmatians.
ALX4 gene: Found on chromosome 18, this specific mutation has been linked directly to blue eyes in Siberian Huskies.

Not all blue-eyed dogs are genetically identical—some may have crystal-clear blue eyes, while others have marbled or partially blue eyes.

Different Types of Blue Eyes in Dogs

There’s more variety in blue eyes than many people realize. Here are a few forms:

Solid light blue – Common in Huskies and Australian Shepherds
Marbled (merle eyes) – One eye or both have mixed blue and brown
Split eyes – Half blue, half brown in the same eye
One blue, one brown (heterochromia) – A beautiful genetic quirk

These variations make dogs with blue eyes even more unique and eye-catching.

Top 10 Dog Breeds with Blue Eyes

Below are some of the most well-known and loved dog breeds with blue eyes, including their traits, personalities, and care needs.

1. Siberian Husky

Personality: Energetic, independent, friendly
Why blue eyes? The ALX4 gene mutation
Fun fact: Huskies can have one blue and one brown eye (heterochromia)
Appearance: Medium size, thick coat, wolf-like look

Siberian Huskies are arguably the most iconic dogs that have blue eyes. Their captivating gaze, paired with a thick, snow-ready coat, makes them both stunning and adventurous companions—and with proper training, they can also be one of the best family dog choices for active households.

2. Australian Shepherd

Personality: Intelligent, loyal, loves mental stimulation
Why blue eyes? Merle gene
Fun fact: Even tri-color Aussies can have blue eyes

These working dogs are incredibly smart and agile. Their blue eyes often accompany their beautiful merle coats, giving them a striking appearance. Perfect for active families or dog sports.

3. Border Collie

Personality: Super intelligent, eager to learn
Why blue eyes? Merle gene or crossbreeding
Fun fact: Known as the smartest dog breed in the world

Some Border Collies—especially those with merle coloring—have one or both blue eyes. These blue eyed puppy breeds grow into highly trainable and energetic adults.

4. Weimaraner

Personality: Friendly, brave, energetic
Why blue eyes? Puppies often have blue eyes that turn gray or amber
Fun fact: Nicknamed “Gray Ghosts” for their coat color and stealth

While not all adult Weimaraners retain their blue eyes, many puppies start with bright blue before maturing into lighter hues. Their athleticism and beauty make them a favorite for experienced dog owners.

5. Dalmatian

Personality: Outgoing, alert, loyal
Why blue eyes? Piebald gene
Important note: Blue-eyed Dalmatians are more likely to be deaf

Dalmatians with blue eyes are rarer and can be controversial due to health concerns. Still, their spotted coats and crystal eyes make them standout dogs with blue eyes.

6. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Personality: Hardworking, confident, protective
Why blue eyes? Merle gene causes “glass eyes”
Fun fact: Louisiana's official state dog

This breed is known for marbled coats and glassy, pale blue eyes. Catahoulas are versatile working dogs that do best with space and experienced owners.

7. Great Dane (Merle or Harlequin)

Personality: Gentle giant, affectionate, loyal
Why blue eyes? Merle gene
Fun fact: Blue-eyed Great Danes are usually merle-patterned

These towering dogs are surprisingly gentle and make great family pets. Blue-eyed Great Danes are rare and often the result of specific coat combinations.

8. Shetland Sheepdog

Personality: Sweet, intelligent, sensitive
Why blue eyes? Merle gene in blue merles
Fun fact: Sometimes called “Mini Collies”

While not as common, blue-eyed Shelties do exist—especially in blue merle variations. They're smart and excel in obedience and agility sports.

9. Alaskan Klee Kai

Personality: Alert, energetic, curious
Why blue eyes? Similar ancestry to Huskies
Fun fact: Often mistaken for miniature Huskies

If you love Huskies but want a smaller companion, this is your breed. Many Alaskan Klee Kais sport icy blue eyes in a compact, playful package.

10. Pomsky

Personality: Playful, energetic, affectionate
Why blue eyes? Inherited from the Siberian Husky parent
Fun fact: Pomskies are a cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky

The Pomsky is a designer breed that has captured hearts with its fluffy coat, small size, and often dazzling blue eyes. Thanks to their Husky lineage, many Pomskies inherit those striking icy eyes, giving them a truly unique and expressive appearance.

Despite their cute dog looks, Pomskies are highly energetic and need regular mental and physical stimulation. With the right care and training, they make loving companions and can be a good fit for smaller homes—especially for active individuals or couples.

Are Blue Eyes in Dogs Linked to Health Problems?

Generally, blue eyes are harmless. However, some connections exist:

Deafness: Especially in Dalmatians or dogs with merle/piebald genes
Light sensitivity: Blue eyes may squint more in bright sunlight
No direct link: Blue eyes are not linked to blindness in most breeds

Always consult a vet if your blue-eyed puppy squints excessively or seems overly sensitive to light.

Care Tips for Blue-Eyed Dogs

Use shaded walks or doggy sunglasses if eyes are sensitive to sun
Regularly check for redness or cloudiness
Keep hair trimmed around the eyes to prevent irritation
Use tear-stain removers if needed

Dogs with blue eyes are truly captivating—from Huskies to Catahoulas and even mixed breeds. Whether you're drawn to the genetics, the aesthetics, or the mystery, these dogs make.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs with blue eyes rare?

Yes, blue eyes are uncommon in dogs. Most dogs have brown or amber eyes. Breeds with specific genetic traits (like merle or the Husky’s ALX4 gene) are more likely to have blue eyes.

Can a dog's eyes change color?

Yes! Many blue-eyed puppy breeds are born with blue eyes that darken with age. For example, Labrador puppies often have blue eyes that turn brown within 8–12 weeks.

Are blue-eyed dogs more sensitive to sunlight?

Somewhat. Less melanin means more light sensitivity, so some blue-eyed dogs may squint in bright environments.

Is one blue eye and one brown eye normal?

Absolutely. It’s called heterochromia and is totally normal in breeds like Huskies and Aussies.

If you’re lucky enough to share your life with a blue-eyed dog—whether it’s a striking Husky, an adorable Pomsky, or a rare blue-eyed Aussie—you know just how special that bond can be.

At My Spoilt Pet, we celebrate that connection with unique, pet-inspired gifts for proud dog parents. From stylish tote bags and cozy pet lover t-shirts to paw-some mugs, our products are designed for people who truly love their pets. Because every dog deserves to be spoiled—and so do you.

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Dogs with Blue Eyes: Breeds, Genetics & Care Tips

Why Do Dogs Have Blue Eyes?

Different Types of Blue Eyes in Dogs