15 Mesmerizing Dog Breeds Known For Their Unique Eyes

A dog’s eyes are a reflection of their genetic heritage. The stunning array of canine eye colors—deep brown to icy blue, golden amber, and even marbled combinations—is primarily influenced by melanin levels and genetic mutations. These variations make certain dogs look even more unique. Let’s look at 15 dog breeds with the most mesmerizing eyes.

Siberian Husky 

The Siberian Husky is known for its piercing blue eyes, though they can also be brown, green, or even bi-colored. Their eye color is due to a genetic trait unique to the breed, which does not affect vision. Huskies were originally bred in Siberia as sled dogs, and this made their eyes adapted to harsh, snowy environments.

Australian Shepherd 

Aside from the Australian Shepherd’s merle coat patterns, the breed has mesmerizing eyes, which can be blue or even marbled. Many have heterochromia, resulting in one blue and one brown eye. This breed’s remarkable eyes are linked to the merle gene, which also affects coat color. Aussies are intelligent, and their sharp eyesight aids in their herding work.

Border Collie 

As one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Border Collie often has intense brown or blue eyes. Some have one blue and one brown eye due to heterochromia. Collies can use their gaze to direct livestock. The combination of intelligence and stunning eyes makes them one of the most mesmerizing breeds.

Catahoula Leopard Dog 

Named after Louisiana’s Catahoula Parish, the Catahoula Leopard has uniquely patterned eyes that can be one single color or a mix of colors. This breed was developed for hunting and herding, requiring keen vision to track prey. Catahoulas are highly energetic, needing plenty of space to run. Their eye colors are linked to the merle gene, which affects pigmentation in the iris.

Weimaraner 

Originally bred for hunting, Weimaraners rely on their keen eyesight and tracking abilities. They are known for their ghostly silver-gray coats and luminous blue-gray or amber eyes. As puppies, their eyes are bright blue but gradually turn light amber or gray as they mature. These unique eyeballs contribute to their nickname, the “Gray Ghost.”

Alaskan Malamute 

Bred for pulling heavy sleds, Malamutes have strong bodies and thick fur. One quality that sets them apart is their deep brown eyes that radiate warmth. Unlike Huskies, blue eyes are not common in Malamutes and are considered a disqualification in the breed standard. The dark, almond-shaped eyes often give them a kind and intelligent expression.

Dalmatian  

The Dalmatians’ blue eyes are as captivating as their spotted coats. Their eyes are round, expressive, and can be blue, brown, or even one of each—known as heterochromia. Blue-eyed Dalmatians are more prone to congenital deafness due to a genetic link between coat and eye pigmentation. These unique eye colors make them one of the most recognizable breeds.

Shetland Sheepdog 

Bred for herding, Shelties often have striking blue or brown eyes, sometimes with a mesmerizing marbled effect. Their eyes are round, giving them a sharp, intelligent look. Those with merle coats are more likely to have blue or mixed-colored eyes. The Shetland Sheepdog dog is highly trainable and excels in agility and obedience competitions.

Labrador Retriever

Though Labrador Retrievers are best known for their friendly personalities, their eyes stand out. Most have warm brown eyes, but rare cases of blue or green eyes exist in chocolate or silver Labs. Labs’ gaze is often described as “kind” and “soulful,” reflecting their gentle and loving nature, which makes them excellent therapy and service dogs.

Chow Chow

Despite their stoic appearance, this dog breed is deeply loyal to their families. Its deep-set, soulful eyes give off a distinct and somewhat mysterious look. Chow Chow’s eyes are typically dark brown and slightly slanted, adding to their serious expression. Unlike other breeds, their eye shape contributes to limited peripheral vision.

Belgian Malinois

Most Belgian Malinois have dark brown eyes that contrast with their tan and black facial markings. These dogs were first raised for herding but are now widely used in police and military work due to their keen observational skills. Additionally, the dog’s ability to lock onto a target makes it one of the most captivating working breeds.

Dogue De Bordeaux 

Wrinkles surrounding the Dogue’s eyes give the dog an endearing, wise appearance. Each amber-colored eye exudes warmth and loyalty. This breed was originally used for guarding estates and hunting large game. However, despite their formidable size and muscular build, they’re gentle and affectionate on the inside. They also form deep bonds with their families.

Klee Kai 

Often mistaken for a small Husky, the Klee Kai has similarly stunning blue or brown eyes, sometimes with heterochromia. Its beautiful eyes give them a curious and alert expression, reflecting its high intelligence. The breed was developed as a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky and retains its sharp eyesight and active personality.

Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound is a rare breed recognized for its striking amber eyes, which harmonize beautifully with its sleek, reddish coat. A set of expressive oval-shaped eyes reflects its hunting heritage. Originating from Malta, these dogs used their exceptional eyesight to chase prey. Pharaoh Hounds have a unique trait—their faces can blush pink when they are excited.

Great Dane  

These gentle giants have soulful, expressive eyes that truly stand out. Their eye colors can range from deep brown to blue, with harlequin-patterned Danes often showcasing the most unique variations. Some Great Danes even have heterochromia. Their large, round eyes reflect their affectionate and patient nature, making them even more endearing.