As with most physical characteristics, DNA has a significant impact on a dog’s eye color. Let’s examine some of the known genetic causes of blue eyes in dogs in more detail.
The “blue eye variant
Many people think of the Siberian Husky when they think of blue eyes. That’s no coincidence, either.
The ALX4 gene variation that causes blue eyes is more common in huskies than in most pups. Dogs having just one copy of the variation may have blue eyes because this is a dominant characteristic.
Along with Huskies, the blue eye variety can also occasionally be found in Alaskan Klee Kai, Miniature American Shepherds, and Australian Shepherds. As long as they have a carrier of the blue eye variety in their genealogy, it can also manifest in mixed breeds.
Despite this, the characteristic is still extremely uncommon. Only approximately 5% of canines tested positive for the blue eye variation, according to our DNA analysis.
Not every genetic variation affects both eyes equally. Dogs may therefore develop one blue eye and one eye of a different color. The term for this condition is heterochromia iridis, although it is also known as “strange eyes,” “split eyes,” and “broken glass eyes.”
The white spotting or piebald variant
Given that white is not a color, white spotting, sometimes known as “piebald,” in dogs appears to result from a localized lack of pigment. The most frequent known genetic cause of piebald coloration, the MITF gene, frequently causes white spots in the coat, as well as occasionally a pink nose, pink eye rims, and blue eyes.
What does a dog’s blue eyes mean?
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Hazel eyes are a type of eye that can change color over the course of a person’s life, often going through two completely different phases in the same day. But can the color of a pet’s eyes change? Yes. What should worry pet owners is why the hue is shifting.
Everyone who owns a dog or cat should be aware of these changes in their pets’ eye color.
Changes in eye color can occur in both dogs and cats over the course of their lives. The majority of puppies are born with amber or yellow eyes, but by the time they are eight weeks old, they will turn to dark brown, according to veterinarian and San Francisco SPCA spokeswoman Dr. Jennifer Scarlett. She also claims that cats’ irises will gradually develop a “cobwebby” appearance with age.
Even though Dr. Scarlett says that most dogs’ eyes eventually turn dark brown, several dog breeds have differing eye colors. A husky, for instance, typically has blue eyes. However, if a dog’s eyes aren’t naturally blue, a condition called interstitial keratitis may be the cause “a corneal inflammatory condition where a bluish-white film covers the eye’s clear window. The virus that causes infectious hepatitis is responsible for its development “in line with WebMD.
Watery eyes and squinting to block off light are indications of the condition, which can be seriously debilitating. “Most dogs fully recover in a matter of weeks. The eye can occasionally be permanently obscured, “as per WebMD.
Ask your veterinarian what the typical eye color is for the breed of your animal.
The eyes of a dog with cataracts typically seem foggy or bluish gray. “But keep in mind that a dog’s lens will eventually get clouded or gray with age. As opposed to cataracts, nuclear sclerosis does not pose a threat to a dog’s vision, and therapy is typically not advised “in line with WebMD. To be sure of the condition your dog may be experiencing, though, always take them to the vet.
According to Dr. Scarlett, changes in the color of the eyes in dogs or cats may also be a sign of an iris or corneal infection.
The hue or cloudiness of the eyes can potentially be a sign of more severe disorders that impact more than only the eyes. For instance, according to WebMD, a change in the color of a person’s cat eyes may indicate they have melanoma.
Animal eye color changes are quite significant, especially when they are not brought on by aging. If you detect a color change, take your pets to the veterinarian.
Blindness or Deafness
The presence of blue eyes does not guarantee that your dog will become blind, deaf, or suffer from any other genetic flaws. Variation in iris pigmentation can happen for a variety of causes and is not always a sign of health problems.
The risk of dangerous health issues, such blindness or deafness, is substantially higher if your dog is a Merle Carrier and is bred with another carrier; these children are referred to as “Double-Merles.”
Eye Disease
Your dog may have developed an eye condition like cataracts or glaucoma if its eyes start to abruptly turn blue or hazy. You must consult a veterinarian in this situation because some conditions can result in permanent blindness.
Liam has more than 20 years of experience as a dog trainer, owner, and lover. He works with veterinary practices, grooming salons, training facilities, and toy and food manufacturers to expand their businesses. He is ideally qualified to contribute to the advancement of canines and people by combining his love of dogs and business.
What shade of dog eyes is the rarest?
I highlighted a stunning husky with intense blue eyes last week. I wondered how many different eye hues dogs have after describing her. The quantity of melanin present in a dog’s iris determines the color of its eyes. Green or blue eyes have less melanin than brown eyes, which have more of it.
The majority of dog breeds have brown eyes, although others have light blue, speckled, golden, or hazel eyes. Green is the most uncommon color of all. As dogs age, their eye color changes. A puppy’s eyes typically need nine to twelve weeks to settle. It can take up to 16 weeks for an eye color change that is permanent.
Some canines are born with eyes that are two different shades. Heterochromia is the name given to this condition. It’s a hereditary issue if a puppy is born with two different-colored eyes. Heterochromia, however, might appear later in life as a result of an accident, cataracts, or glaucoma. Because some dog breeds are prone to heterochromia, it’s always crucial to inform your vet if your best friend’s eyes alter in any manner.
Due to their distinctive markings, Australian Shepherds and numerous other dog breeds are referred to as Merles. Merle dogs have unusual half-and-half eyes, which are made up of equal parts blue and brown. It’s genuinely special.
Canines perceive color? They can, yes. According to research, dogs can only perceive a small range of hues. We can distinguish three different color combinations because we have three different types of cones in our eyes (red, blue, and green). Dogs, on the other hand, can only see in two colors (yellow and blue) or are dichromatic because they only have two cones.
The most astounding thing about dog eyes is that, regardless of color, studies have proven that staring into them releases large amounts of the feel-good hormone oxycontin into the brain. Speaking of which, I’m being watched by two dark brown eyes because it’s time for dinner. I know that the refrigerator is how we are related since Watson told me so.
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A dog with blue eyes belongs to what breed?
They are more probable, but that does not mean they are certain. A positive test for the deafness gene is the sole certain sign of deafness in dogs. Similar to how blue eyes are connected to a deficiency in iris pigment, deafness is frequently related with a loss of pigment. The most prevalent breeds with blue eyes include Dalmatians, English Cocker Spaniels, Bull Terriers, and English Setters. These breeds are statistically more likely to be deaf as well.
Siberian Husky
One of the most well-known breeds with blue eyes is perhaps the Siberian Husky. The stunning blue eyes that the Siberian Husky is renowned for are thought to be linked to the ALX4 canine chromosome 18. If you are determined to buy one of these puppies, make sure you have lots of space because they are a working breed. These puppies must get regular exercise to avoid becoming destructive.
Australian Shepherd
Another well-known breed that is frequently reported to contain the blue-eyed trait is the Aussie. Aussies are frequently confused with the Border Collie, another dog on this list. The Aussie is a working breed that is widely available in a variety of coat colors and is very active. Even though these dogs may adapt to apartment living, having a bigger yard in which to play is preferred. This dog may have separation anxiety. It’s ideal to spend as much time as possible with your Shepherd puppy at home if you intend to own one.
Weimaraner
Another breed that has the lovely baby blues is the weimaraner. This breed, which is amiable but courageous, has a stunning silvery or nearly copper-colored coat. Many people truly believe that the presence of Silver Labradors today is a result of the Weimaraner being bred into the Labrador Line. These puppies thrive in a larger yard since they are very energetic. They are excellent family pets since they are laid-back.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians have stunning spots and occasionally have blue eyes. Unfortunately, many blue-eyed Dalmatians are deaf, which is not very frequent. Although scientists and vets are unsure of the specific cause of hearing loss, the two are genetically connected and frequently occur together. Additionally, a number of Dalmatian hybrids have the potential to be blue-eyed.
Border Collie
Do you feel like some ENERGY? One of the breeds with blue eyes that you’ll encounter is the Border Collie, which is one of the more active types. They have a long, flowing coat that makes them both adorable and rather attractive. Given that they shed more than other breeds, they will require routine grooming. This puppy will thrive in a bigger, fenced-in yard because they want to guard their flock out in the open. Given their high intelligence, Border Collies are among the world’s most rapid learners of basic obedience commands.
Dachshund
Another adorable breed that on rare occasions has blue eyes is the dachshund. This is common of Merle Dachshunds, therefore their coats typically have an almost more marbled appearance. These tenacious little puppies are a bit more laid back than their human counterparts, but they are still very connected to them. If they are not properly trained and socialized at a young age, they have been known to become aggressive.
Corgi
The Corgi, like the Dachshund, can have Merle-colored fur and lighter blue eyes. A dog with a docked tail and a smaller frame is known as a Welsh or Pembroke Corgi. They are well known for having cute bums and having very likable personalities. However, corgis may be rather pricey, and if you want a puppy, you’ll probably be placed on a breeder’s waitlist. You have a good chance of discovering an older merle-coated Corgi with blue eyes if you adopt from a rescue.
Sheltie
Another herding dog that may have blue eyes is the Shetland Sheepdog, also referred to as the Sheltie. This is another breed that, like the Dachshund and Corgi, is more likely to have blue eyes and a Merle coat. This gene is specifically carried by blue merles and bi-blue merles. For exhibition purposes, blue eyes that are the result of anything else are regarded as a flaw. In terms of appearance and the requirement for lots of space to run, the Sheltie is comparable to the Border Collie. They are extremely vivacious breeds that thrive at home with their families.
Pitbull
Although it’s uncommon, the American Pitbull Terrier can have blue eyes. The color of their coat is a major factor. Pitbulls with lighter coat colors are more likely to have blue eyes. The Pitbull comes in a variety of uncommon color combinations, such as the Red-Nose Pitbull, which has an amber coat and crimson eyes. The American Pitbull Terrier is both greatly adored and feared in the United States, despite the fact that the AKC does not recognize them. Several dog breeds that resemble pitbulls are grouped together, however they are not all APBTs. If properly raised, the Pitbull Terrier, often known as the nanny dog in the United States, is an incredibly affectionate breed.
Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a big dog with blue eyes on occasion. They are frequently misidentified as a big Siberian husky. The working Malamute is distinguished by its fluffy white-and-black coat and blue eyes. This puppy, like the Husky, was bred to be a working dog for pulling, carrying, and sledding. For this puppy, a sizable fenced-in yard is ideal because of how busy they are. Additionally, because of their long, fluffy coats, it is advised that this breed stay in milder areas.
Klee Kai
It is a Siberian Husky “lite,” the Klee Kai. The Alaskan dog was developed from huskies and other smaller breeds, such as the Alaskan Eskimo Dog, and these puppies are smaller, blue-eyed Alaskan dogs. While some organizations, like the UKC, accept this breed as a purebred, the AKC does not. These puppies will require a bigger yard, and their temperament differs slightly from the Husky’s. This breed is generally more wary and suspicious of strangers. They are not the ideal choice for a home with multiple pets because of their high prey drive.
Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of just a few big breeds with blue eyes. When this breed has merle coats or is black and white and has heterochromia, blue eyes are more common (two eyes that are different colors). The Great Dane is a German breed that makes an excellent family pet. This breed is quite indolent as well as very tall! To do what they do best as couch potatoes, they will require lots of space around your home. They are wonderful family pets since they are so loving and kind.
Catahoula
Another merle-coated breed with blue eyes frequently seen is the Catahoula dog. The most well-known function of this cattle dog is that of ranch hand, guarding the ranch from intruders. This dog needs space to go around; apartments are not ideal for them unless you can commit to a regular exercise regimen. To keep their minds engaged, these puppies require at least 60 minutes of outdoor activity each day. The Catahoula is a wonderful family dog who adapts well to houses with multiple pets.
Cane Corso
Another dog with blue eyes and a similarly blue-grey coat is the Cane Corso, also referred to as the Italian Mastiff. The Cane Corso rarely has blue eyes, much like the Pitbull Terrier, unless they have a silvery coat color. Cane Corsos are easygoing dogs that do well in apartments. This puppy, like other Mastiff breeds, is a huge couch potato and often only requires 30 minutes of activity each day.
