What Dogs Have Blue Eyes? A Guide to Blue-Eyed Dog Breeds

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Blue-eyed dogs have an enchanting, almost magical quality. Their icy gaze is rare in the canine world, making it a mesmerizing trait for many dog lovers. But what causes blue eyes in dogs, and which breeds are most likely to display this captivating feature? In this article, we’ll explore the genetics behind blue dog eyes, health considerations, and a comprehensive list of breeds known for their beautiful baby blues.

Why Do Some Dogs Have Blue Eyes?

The appearance of blue eyes in dogs is mostly dictated by genetics. Here are the primary reasons a dog might have blue eyes (or even just one blue eye):

Merle gene: This gene alters coat and eye coloration, often resulting in one or both blue eyes. Only one copy of the gene is needed for merle coloring to appear.
Piebald gene: This reduces pigment in portions of the coat and can sometimes lead to blue eyes. Two copies, one from each parent, are required for the piebald effect.
ALX4 gene: A specific mutation found in Siberian Huskies causes blue eyes, regardless of their coat color.
Random mutation: Occasionally, a dog from a non-blue-eyed breed may have blue eyes due to a spontaneous genetic change.
Albinism: Extremely rare in dogs, albinism can lead to pale blue or pinkish eyes due to a lack of melanin.

Health Note: Dogs with two copies of the merle or piebald gene have increased risks of deafness or blindness. This is due to the genetics, not the eye color itself. Responsible breeding avoids pairing two merle or two piebald dogs.
Learn more about canine genetics and blue eyes from VCA Hospitals.

Blue-Eyed Dog Breeds

Here’s a list of dog breeds where blue eyes are either common or can occasionally occur:

1. Australian Shepherd

With their merle coats, Aussies often display one or both blue eyes, or even split-colored eyes. They’re energetic, intelligent, and thrive in active households.
Australian Shepherd Club of America

2. Siberian Husky

Perhaps the most famous blue-eyed breed, Siberian Huskies owe their icy gaze to a mutation in the ALX4 gene. They are alert, friendly, and need plenty of exercise.
American Kennel Club: Siberian Husky

3. Miniature American Shepherd

A smaller cousin to the Aussie, this breed often inherits blue eyes due to the merle gene and is known for its intelligence and athleticism.
United States Miniature American Shepherd Club

4. Border Collie

When carrying the merle gene, Border Collies can have blue eyes. These dogs are highly intelligent and excel in agility and herding sports.
Border Collie Society of America

5. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Noted for their mottled coats and often heterochromia (one blue, one brown eye), Catahoulas are energetic and thrive with a job to do.
United Kennel Club: Catahoula Leopard Dog

6. Weimaraner

Known as the “Gray Ghost,” Weimaraners have sleek silver coats and can have light gray-blue eyes, especially as puppies.
Weimaraner Club of America

7. Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Unlike the Pembroke, Cardigans—especially blue merles—sometimes have one or two blue eyes.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America

8. Great Dane

Particularly in harlequin or merle patterns, Great Danes may have blue eyes, adding to their gentle giant mystique.
Great Dane Club of America

9. Dachshund

Rare, but possible in dapple (merle) Dachshunds, blue eyes are a striking feature for this bold little breed.
American Kennel Club: Dachshund

10. Dalmatian

Dalmatians always have two piebald genes, which may result in blue eyes, but this is also linked to a higher risk of deafness.
Dalmatian Club of America

11. Alaskan Malamute

While not breed standard, blue eyes can occur in Alaskan Malamutes, usually due to crossbreeding with Huskies.
Alaskan Malamute Club of America

12. French Bulldog

Occasionally, Frenchies with merle or dilute coats may have blue eyes.
French Bulldog Club of America

13. Alaskan Klee Kai

These small, husky-like companions often inherit blue eyes from their Siberian Husky ancestry.
Alaskan Klee Kai Association of America

14. American Pit Bull Terrier

Many pit bulls are born with blue eyes, which often darken with age, but some retain a blue tinge throughout life.
United Kennel Club: American Pit Bull Terrier

15. Boston Terrier

Carrying the piebald gene, Boston Terriers can have blue eyes, particularly if they are predominantly white.
Boston Terrier Club of America

16. Collie

Rough and smooth Collies may show blue eyes when the merle gene is present.
Collie Club of America

17. Pomsky

A hybrid between the Pomeranian and the Siberian Husky, Pomskies often inherit the Husky’s signature blue eyes.
Pomsky Club of America

18. Boxer

White or mostly white boxers can have blue eyes due to the piebald gene, though this is rare.
American Boxer Club

19. Bull Terrier

Some white Bull Terriers may have blue eyes, but this comes with a higher risk of congenital deafness.
Bull Terrier Club of America

20. Old English Sheepdog

Blue eyes can occasionally appear, especially in merle or white-marked individuals.
Old English Sheepdog Club of America

21. English Bulldog

Merle-patterned English Bulldogs, though rare and not breed standard, can have blue eyes.
Bulldog Club of America

22. Chihuahua

Merle or dilute-coated Chihuahuas may display blue eyes, though it’s rare.
Chihuahua Club of America

23. Alaskan Husky

This hybrid sled dog can have blue eyes, thanks to its diverse ancestry, often including Siberian Husky.
International Sled Dog Racing Association

Health Considerations for Blue-Eyed Dogs

While blue eyes are stunning, they can be linked to certain genetic health concerns—most notably, an increased risk of deafness in breeds with the merle or piebald genes. Also, lighter eye color means less melanin, which may offer less protection against UV damage as the dog ages. However, many blue-eyed dogs are perfectly healthy and happy with proper care.

Breeding Warning: Breeding two merle or two piebald dogs together is considered unethical due to the increased risk of deafness and blindness in the puppies. Always seek responsible breeders who prioritize health over appearance.
Read more on the ethics of dog breeding at The Kennel Club

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