There’s something magical about a dog with blue eyes. That icy, piercing gaze can stop you in your tracks—and for good reason. While brown is the most common eye color in dogs, some breeds are known for naturally sporting stunning shades of blue. Whether due to genetics, coat color, or a touch of Husky heritage, blue eyes in dogs are rare, beautiful, and always captivating.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular dog breeds known for their brilliant blue eyes and what makes each one so special.
Why Do Some Dogs Have Blue Eyes?
Blue eyes in dogs can happen for a few reasons:
- Merle gene: Affects coat and eye pigment (common in Australian Shepherds and Border Collies)
- Albinism or partial albinism: Less common, can result in light eyes and coats
- Heterochromia: One blue eye and one brown eye (seen in Huskies, Australian Shepherds)
- Breed genetics: Some breeds, like the Siberian Husky, are simply born with them
Dog Breeds Known for Blue Eyes
1. Siberian Husky
- Eye Color: Often piercing blue (also comes in brown or bi-colored)
- Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, friendly
- Why They’re Special: Huskies are the classic blue-eyed breed. Their wolf-like looks and icy eyes are unforgettable.
2. Australian Shepherd
- Eye Color: Blue, amber, green, or heterochromia
- Temperament: Smart, loyal, high-energy
- Why They’re Special: Aussie Shepherds often inherit blue eyes from their merle-coated parents. Their gaze is as intense as their energy.
3. Border Collie
- Eye Color: Blue or brown (especially in merles)
- Temperament: Extremely intelligent, focused, hard-working
- Why They’re Special: Blue-eyed Border Collies look sharp and alert—their eyes match their quick minds.
4. Dalmatian
- Eye Color: Brown or blue (though blue eyes can be linked to deafness)
- Temperament: Active, outgoing, playful
- Why They’re Special: Their unique spots and rare blue eyes make them true head-turners.
5. Weimaraner
- Eye Color: Pale blue in puppies, may turn gray/amber
- Temperament: Energetic, loyal, intelligent
- Why They’re Special: Their sleek silver coats and ghostly eye color give them a striking, regal look.
To learn more about this unique and captivating breed, check out the Weimaraner breed profile.
6. Shetland Sheepdog (Merle)
- Eye Color: Blue or mixed (in merle-coated dogs)
- Temperament: Sweet, smart, eager to please
- Why They’re Special: Blue-eyed Shelties are playful and beautiful with expressive faces and energetic personalities.
7. Great Dane (Harlequin or Merle)
- Eye Color: Often blue or partially blue
- Temperament: Gentle giant, friendly, easygoing
- Why They’re Special: These towering dogs with soft blue eyes are gentle giants with the heart of a lapdog.
For more information about this majestic breed, visit the Great Dane breed profile.
8. Catahoula Leopard Dog
- Eye Color: Blue, amber, green, or marbled
- Temperament: Protective, independent, energetic
- Why They’re Special: Known for their “glass eyes,” these Louisiana natives have stunning coats and eye colors.
To learn more about this unique and versatile breed, check out the Catahoula Leopard Dog breed guide.
9. Alaskan Klee Kai
- Eye Color: Blue, brown, or parti-colored
- Temperament: Curious, alert, loyal
- Why They’re Special: These mini-Husky lookalikes often have vivid blue eyes and a spunky personality to match.
For more details on this compact and clever breed, visit the Alaskan Klee Kai breed profile.
10. Cardigan Welsh Corgi (Merle)
- Eye Color: Blue in merles
- Temperament: Friendly, smart, stubborn
- Why They’re Special: Merle Corgis with blue eyes are full of charm and personality, with a look that’s truly unique.
Are Blue Eyes Linked to Health Issues?
Not always, but in some breeds, blue eyes can be linked to:
- Deafness (especially in Dalmatians and merle-coated dogs)
- Eye sensitivity to sunlight
- Vision problems (rare but possible)
Always consult with a breeder or vet to understand any potential health concerns related to eye color in specific breeds.
Eyes That Mesmerize
Whether crystal-clear or stormy blue, a dog’s eyes say a lot—and in blue-eyed dogs, they say it loudly! From the ice-blue stare of a Husky to the marbled gaze of a Catahoula, these pups stand out in any crowd.
Thinking of bringing home a blue-eyed beauty? Just remember: behind those stunning eyes is a heart full of love, loyalty, and plenty of energy!