Did you know that certain breeds of dogs have green eyes? Although they are very rare, dogs with green eyes are very cute and adorable. If you happen to come across one, you may instantly fall in love with the dog.
Dogs with green eyes are as stunning as they are adorable. And although they are very rare in the canine world, these special characteristics can be found in a wide range of dog breeds.
But whether they commonly occur in a specific breed or they’re a random occurrence, green eyes give your pup a memorable appearance. That being said, all dogs are beautiful, regardless of the color of their coat or eyes.
Nonetheless, not all breeds of dogs have this unique eye color, known as green eyes. So, let’s find out everything you need to know about the unique dog breeds that have green eyes.
Table of Contents
How Rare Are Dogs With Green Eyes?
So, is it rare for dogs to have green eyes?
Yes! In fact, it’s very rare for dogs to possess green eyes.
Most dog breeds have brown eyes. Some breeds, such as the Border Collie and the Siberian Husky, have blue eyes. Others are said to be odd-eyed since they have one brown eye and one blue eye. But there are also some other dogs that have golden, hazel or speckled eyes.
However, dogs with green eyes are a rarity.
In fact, green is considered the rarest eye color in the canine world. So what causes green eyes in dogs? Let’s find out why so few dog breeds have green eyes.
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Why Do Some Dogs Possess Green Eyes?
A dog’s eye color is determined by genetics. As with other physical characteristics of a dog, eye color differs based on the breed, genes and a few other factors like any underlying eye disorders.
However, the main reason for green eyes in dogs is that they carry the Merle gene. This specific gene is responsible for your dog’s eye color as well as its coat color.
This gene has a low level of eumelanin or pigment, which causes the dog’s eyes to be green, blue or a combination of both.
Most dogs with green eyes have little or no pigment in the eyes, and hence, the striking green eyes.
Dog Breeds With Green Eyes
So, which breeds of dogs have green eyes?
There are two types of green-eyed dogs: pure breeds and cross breeds.
A good example of a pure breed with green eyes is the American Pitbull Terrier. The American Staffordshire Terrier may also possess green eyes, as it’s a subcategory of the Pitbull.
On the other hand, the Pomsky (Pomeranian Husky) is a crossbred dog with green eyes. Some other breeds may possess green eyes if they are carriers of the merle gene. This genetic trait influences the color of both the coat and the eyes.
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(@lokiwhitewolf)For most dogs with blue eyes such as the Siberian Husky and some terriers, the color of their eyes can turn to green, blue-green, or have one blue eye and one green eye.
Although this is a very rare occurrence, it also exists.
Other carriers of the merle gene that are likely to possess green eyes include the following dog breeds:
- Australian Shepherd
- Chihuahua
- Boston Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- Dachshund
- Great Dane
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Siberian Husky
- Weirmaraner
In the following section, we’re going to review each breed in great detail.
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The Pitbull
If you’ve ever come across a Pitbull dog, then you may be remembering a strong, muscular pooch that had a huge, goofy smile.
That’s the generic image of a Pitbull dog. However, the reality is that there are several dogs that are classified as pitbulls. In fact, the term “Pitbull or “Pit Bull” is not actually a breed name.
While these two terms are commonly used to refer to just one type of dog, they actually comprise five different subtypes of dogs. However, two subtypes are the most common and have more characteristics in common than the others. These are the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
So if you have got a friend or relative who thinks that Pitbulls are bad dogs, simply remind them of this fact. You can’t give a whole group of dogs a bad rap because there are so many pooches involved. This can be a great way to open the eyes of people to show them that pitbulls can actually be great family pets.
As we’ve already mentioned, the various types of pitbulls differ in physical characteristics. However, some have more physical characteristics in common than others. For example, the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier have similar traits. They have big heads and unique body types. They are short, muscular and compact.
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Pitbulls of all types are relatively stronger than many dogs of their size. They have large muscles and flat, squared heads.
Although they have typical body shapes, pitbull dogs vary in many other traits, including eye color. These dogs have brown eyes, blue eyes, and hazel eyes as well as green eyes.
Pitbulls have short coats and come in different colors, including black, white, brown, blue, silver, red or tan. Moreover, these dogs can have a combination of eye and coat colors.
It’s believed that Pitbulls originated in England and were developed from Mastiffs.
As far back as the 1200’s, pit bulls were commonly used in the gruesome sport of bull baiting, until the sport was banned in 1835.
Soon after, the breed was refined to produce a smaller and stronger dog that would excel at dog fighting.
Sadly, the pitbull breed soon became synonymous with dog fighting. So, the pitbull breed has a tarnished reputation.
However, pit bull enthusiasts report that their dogs are just as loyal, friendly and family-oriented as Dachshunds or Labrador Retrievers.
That said, it is still important that pitbull puppies are well trained and socialized.
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Pit Bulls also have lots of energy and require plenty of exercise.
American Pitbulls can reach up to 19 inches tall and normally weigh around 30 to 80 pounds.
They have an average lifespan of around 12 years.
Generally, pitbulls are a hearty and healthy dog breed. However, they are still vulnerable to a few health issues.
Apart from vision and hearing problems that affect all dogs with green eyes, pitbulls are also prone to elbow and hip dysplasia.
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The Pomsky
The Pomsky is a mix between two purebred dogs: the Pomeranian and the Siberian Husky.
Pomskies can reach up to 15 inches tall and weigh around 15 to 30 pounds.
The Pomsky has an average lifespan of around 15 years, especially if taken proper care.
Being a cross between the Siberian Husky and the Pomeranian, let’s take a look at the histories of both parent breeds to understand where this mixed breed came from.
The Siberian Husky parent was bred to pull heavy sleds across icy conditions.
These pups are strong and hardy, sometimes living in very harsh weather conditions.
Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs who are known to be friendly and loyal.
On the other hand, the Pomeranian is a very small dog breed, which is classified under the toy group of dogs.
Like the Husky, the Pomeranian has a sled dog background, but it is now a cherished family companion.
Since the Husky is strong-willed, you should start training them very early and provide mental stimulation to prevent behavioral issues.
Pomskies are produced by mixing a male Pom with a female Husky.
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(@bluethebieyedpomsky)Because of the size differences between these two parent breeds, this is usually done through artificial insemination.
Pomskies differ considerably in terms of appearance. The beautiful, fluffy Pomsky will often grow into a medium-sized dog. He inherits the best personality traits from both parent breeds.
Nonetheless, your Pomsky could be a larger dog with an independent streak just like the Siberian Husky.
Your Pomsky will need proper grooming every week. Both parent breeds have double coats.
Pomskies shed considerably twice per year so you should brush them regularly to remove any loose hair.
Pomskies also require plenty of exercise, but this also varies from dog to dog.
Puppies who take more after the Husky will be more energetic than those that take more of the Pomeranian parent.
Both breeds that produce the Pomsky are usually strong and healthy.
However, they are still prone to certain health problems. These include dilated cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation, collapsing trachea, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, hair loss, and dental issues.
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The Australian Shepherd
The name of this breed is quite misleading. In fact, the Australian Shepherd originated from the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, and not Australia. The breed was commonly associated with the Basque Shepherd dog breed, which was introduced to the United States from Australia.
The breed became extremely popular in the United States after the First World War. They were commonly found at horse shows, rodeos and even played leading roles in mainstream movies.
These dogs are known for their strong work ethics and therefore, the breed does best when he is constantly challenged.
According to the American Kennel Club, the Aussie is currently the sixteenth most popular dog breed.
The Australian Shepherd stands 20 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder for males, 18 to 21 inches for females. On average, males weigh between 50 and 65 pounds, females 40 to 55 pounds.
These dogs might have any combination of blue, brown, amber, hazel, or green eyes. Some Australian Shepherds even display more than one color within the same eye.
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Boston Terrier
The history of the Boston Terrier began around 1860 in Liverpool, England.
The first Boston Terrier was a mix between a White English Terrier (now extinct) and an English Bulldog. This mixed breed dog was then acquired by an American citizen, who took him back home in Boston.
That’s how the breed got the name Boston Terrier.
The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1893.
Interestingly, this dog breed has earned a huge reputation in Boston. For example, Rhett the Boston Terrier has been the official Boston University Mascot since 15th November, 1922.
The Boston Terrier is lively, smart, and affectionate with a gentle, even temperament. They can, however, be stubborn, so persistence and consistency are definite musts when training.
These dogs are small and sturdy with a compact build. They typically weigh around 10 to 25 pounds and stand about 16 inches tall. They have short, smooth coats that are white combined with brindle, black, or seal.
Boston Terriers traditionally have brown eyes. The Boston Terrier Club of America’s breed standard for Boston Terriers states that Bostons should not have blue or green eyes.
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Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is definitely one of the most popular small breeds of dogs in the world. Their history dates back to the Aztec times. However, it wasn’t until the breed was rediscovered by Americans in the 18th century that people started to fall in love with them.
Small and brave, this toy dog is said to be sassy and charming. Although the breed’s original purpose is not known, he is now commonly used as a companion dog.
He enjoys the company of his owner and does not tolerate being left alone. Despite being small in stature, they have a huge personality and can be quite stubborn. Chihuahuas also tend to be aggressive and overprotective, especially if not properly trained.
They typically weigh between 2 and 6 pounds and can be around 6 to 9 inches tall.
Chihuahuas are seen in many colors, either solid or a combination of two colors. Most common colors include black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red.
They usually have black, brown or hazel eyes. but some of them may surprise you with green eyes.
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Dachshund
The Dachshund, was originally bred in Germany to hunt den animals, such as badgers and foxes. When in packs, they would also excel at hunting larger animals.
He was bred in the 15th century and at that time he varied in size based on his purpose. Over time, the dog was altered to develop an elongated and fearless dog that could excel at digging into burrows.
In England, the dog was used as a companion during the 1800’s. The breed made it way to America at the end of the nineteenth century.
The Dachshund is known to be a brave dog and is energetic and smart. He can be too courageous at times and is also willful. They enjoy cuddling near their owners, but some can also be quite shy depending on the line.
Dachshunds are bred and shown in two sizes: Standard and Miniature. Standard Dachshunds of all varieties (Smooth, Wirehair, and Longhair) usually weigh between 16 and 32 pounds. Miniature Dachshunds of all varieties weigh 11 pounds and under at maturity.
Light-colored dachshunds usually have green, light brown or amber eyes, or eye of two different colors such as one blue and one brown eye. Blue eyes are possible but have been labeled “undesirable” by kennel associations. A blue-eyed dachshund is sometimes misidentified as a “double-dapple.”
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(@dexter.minidachshund)Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are descendants of the ancient Spaniel, one of the earliest breeds to be domesticated. These dogs were originally developed for the purpose of hunting woodcocks.
Cocker Spaniels come in two different breeds: the American and English Cocker Spaniels.
Historians believe that the American Cocker Spaniel originated from the English breed, which arrived in America in the 17th century on the Mayflower ship.
Evidence suggests that the English breed was crossed with smaller Spaniels to create the American version.
For American hunters looking for a smaller dog that would help with hunting small birds, the American Cocker Spaniel was a popular choice.
The AKC registered the English version in 1946 with the UK Kennel Club following suit by recognizing the American version as a separate breed in 1968. This marked the end of the long-lasting debate on which version would bear the title “Cocker Spaniel”.
Whether it is called Cocker Spaniel or the American Cocker Spaniel, this breed is now very popular in the United States and is known for its charming personality and cute looks.
Males stand 15 inches tall, females 14 inches tall. Males and females weigh 24 to 28 pounds.
It is traditional for Cockers to have dark brown eyes with an almond shape around the rim. However, there are rare cases where they may have green eyes.
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Great Dane
Great Danes were initially known as Boar Hounds simply because they were commonly used for hunting boars. In the 16th century, their name was changed to “Dogges”.
Later on, however, German nobles would start keeping the best of these dogs at home, renaming them ” Kammerhunde” or chamber dogs in the process.
The term “Great Dane” was first used in the 1700s when a traveling Frenchman saw a boar hound in Denmark and called the dog “Grand Danois” or the Great Danish dog.
That name became popular, even though the dog was not actually bred in Denmark.
Most German dog breeders continued to develop the dog further. They worked to produce calmer dogs and happily for dog lovers today, they succeeded.
These dogs are moderately playful, affectionate and good with children. They will guard their home. Great Danes generally get along with other animals, particularly if raised with them, but some individuals in the breed can be aggressive with dogs they do not know.
Male Great Danes are 30 to 34 inches tall and weigh 120 to 200 pounds. Females are 28 to 32 inches tall and weigh 100 to 130 pounds. Some dogs can be smaller or larger than average.
Great Dane’s eyes are only blue as a puppy, and once they begin to mature, they morph into a shade of brown. The only exception is the harlequin Great Dane; their eyes can stay blue throughout their entire life. But all puppies are born with blue eyes. Despite being rare, some dogs may surprise you with green eyes.
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Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is another very popular dog. According to the American Kennel Club, it is the third most popular breed in the United States.
They are big dogs that are smart, friendly, social and loyal. They are also commonly used as companion dogs.
Golden Retrievers were developed in Scotland to help with retrieving the popular waterfowl birds from water.
Gradually, they transitioned to household pets or companion dogs. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes training easy. They are also good with children.
Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and 55 to 65 pounds. Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two.
Golden retrievers normally have brown eyes, not blue eyes. Some golden retriever puppies may have blue eyes when they’re really young, but they’ll quickly turn brown. And if an adult golden retriever has blue or green eyes, it’s probably a mixed breed, or it has a health problem that’s causing its eyes to turn green or blue.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever or Labrador is one of the most popular pet dogs in the US. Almost everyone knows what a Labrador looks like.
The Labrador Retriever breed has its roots in Newfoundland, Canada. The first Labs were developed by crossing St. Johns Waterdogs with other small breeds.
Labs were originally used to pull nets full of fish from the water. At the start of the 19th century, some of these dogs were taken to the UK for duck hunting.
Labradors have also proven to be highly successful as guide dogs. They have also excelled in working roles such as hunting, tracking & detection, and therapy work.
Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and 55 to 65 pounds. Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two.
Labs usually have brown eyes. The exception to this is that some Chocolate Labs have hazel or green eyes.
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Siberian Husky
The ancestors of the present-day Siberian husky thrived in the cold conditions of northeastern Asia, where they lived with the nomadic Chukchi people.
Siberian Huskies were commonly used to pull the belongings of their Chukchi owners. A Russian merchant introduced the breed to North America in the year 1908.
In 1925, a team of Siberian Huskies and mushers delivered the life-saving medication more than 600 miles away to the residents of Nome, Alaska.
The Iditarod sled race is now held every year to commemorate the history of dog sled racing and to honor the brave dogs that delivered the medication to Nome.
Siberian Huskies are not a breed for the new or timid owner. They need a strong owner who will maintain an alpha position in the home. They need obedience training from a young age and can be a difficult and stubborn breed to train.
Generally, they do well with children although young children should never be left alone with any breed. They also get along with people and do well in homes with multiple dogs.
An average male stands between 21 and 23.5 inches high while the female averages 20 to 22 inches. The male weighs between 45 and 60 pounds and the female 35 to 50 pounds.
The Siberian Husky has many different eye colors. They can be Brown, Light Brown, Ice Blue, Deep Blue, Green, Gray, or Amber. Some dogs have what they call bi-eyes. Where they will have two different colored eyes.
Weirmaraner
Weimaraners can make excellent companions, but due to their hunting heritage, they have a lot of energy and high prey drive. Novice owners and apartment dwellers should beware, as this dog needs consistent training and plenty of activity. That said, if you’re prepared to meet the breed’s needs, you’ll be rewarded with a devoted and affectionate addition to your family.
Male Weimaraners stand 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh 70 to 85 pounds. Females are between 23 and 25 inches tall and weigh 55 to 70 pounds.
Their eyes are grey, gold, or a greenish blue color, not the typical dark brown of most other breeds. Puppies are born with bright blue eyes that gradually change color by the time they are six months old.
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Can Dogs with Green Eyes See at Night?
A dog’s eyes tend to glow green at night when you shine light on them since it is reflecting off the eye’s tapetum lucidum, which is absent in us humans.
Not all pups’ eyes glow green, but only those that have the tapetum lucidum, which is also found in some other species.
Dogs, like nocturnal animals, have a light-reflecting surface on their eyes, which enables them to see better at night or in dark conditions.
Will My Puppy’s Eyes Stay Green?
You may be wondering “my puppy has green eyes will they change?”
Well, it’s not uncommon for a puppy’s eye color to change over time.
While it may be exciting to buy or adopt a dog with green or blue eyes, you might notice that the eyes will turn to amber as he grows and develops.
This is because of the amount of eumelanin or pigment in their irises. Dogs with plenty of eumelanin in their eyes usually have brown eyes. Low levels of pigment results in amber eyes. On the other hand, green-eyed dogs have a very low amount of pigment or eumelanin while blue-eyed dogs have none.
Blue eyes look blue because they refract light in the same manner as the ocean or the sky.
Do Dogs with Green Eyes Have a Lot of Health Problems?
The merle gene is associated with certain health problems. These obviously include certain eye disorders like colobomas and glaucoma.
Colobomas refers to an eye abnormality whereby part of the iris fails to develop fully. This condition occurs before birth, but usually doesn’t cause severe vision loss.
Puppies with this condition have abnormally shaped irises. This is the most common sign of coloboma in dogs. However, some dogs are more affected than others.
A small coloboma might not have any noticeable signs or symptoms. This has minimal impact on the dog’s vision. Many dog owners do not even notice the condition in their pets.
However, a large coloboma is characterized by severe symptoms. For instance, the dog’s eyes might not adjust well to new lighting environments. In brighter lighting environments, the iris is unable to control and regulate the amount of light entering the eye. Consequently, the dog will start squinting to block out extremely bright light.
Moreover, as dogs with the merle gene grows, they are also likely to suffer from glaucoma. Unfortunately, glaucoma can cause blindness, especially if left untreated.
The merle gene is also associated with hearing problems. This gene might not support the proper development of the inner ear, which prevents it from functioning properly. Such dogs may suffer from mild to severe hearing loss.
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Puppies with Green Eyes
Interested in buying or adopting a green-eyed dog? Puppies with green eyes are extremely rare and hence, very desirable.
Most green-eyed dogs fall under the mixed breed category (with the exception of the American Pit Bull Terrier). This is because some genetic variations lead to puppies with one or two green eyes.
Sometimes, variations of brown and amber will give the dog’s eyes a greenish appearance. Some puppies have green eyes at birth but will often change to amber color as they grow.
Conclusion
So are dogs with green eyes rare? Yes! In fact, puppies with green eyes are very rare.
Whether you are looking for white dogs with green eyes or brown dogs with green eyes, a puppy with green eyes will certainly melt your heart and bring so much joy to your home!
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