These dogs have green eyes that are as rare as they are stunning.
Dogs With Green Eyes: 10 Rare Breeds With Stunning Gaze and Unique Charm
Dogs come in a wide range of eye colors—from deep chocolate brown to icy blue—but one of the rarest and most striking eye colors you’ll ever see is green. Whether it’s a soft jade or a bold emerald hue, green eyes in dogs are truly captivating.
This rare eye color is the result of a recessive gene, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the gene to develop green eyes. In contrast, brown eyes only require one dominant gene. Interestingly, many green-eyed dog breeds also share a common physical trait: liver or chocolate-colored fur and noses instead of the typical black. That’s no coincidence—eye and coat color genetics are closely linked.
While these dogs may share similar coloring, each one has its own personality. Genetics play a role, but a dog’s unique life experiences and environment are what truly shape who they are.
We spoke with pet experts to bring you a closer look at 10 stunning dog breeds known for their rare and mesmerizing green eyes.
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier: Loyal, Playful, and Full of Heart
The American Staffordshire Terrier—often lovingly nicknamed Am Staff or Staffy—is a muscular, medium-sized breed known for its strength and striking appearance. Dr. Hannah Hart, DVM, with Chewy, highlights their “well-defined musculature and broad heads with prominent cheekbones.” But beyond their tough exterior, Am Staffs are affectionate dogs with soulful green eyes that often hint at their gentle nature.
Personality & Care Needs
Am Staffs are incredibly loyal and thrive on human companionship. They’re just as happy snuggling on the couch as they are chasing a ball or tugging on a rope toy. To keep them happy and healthy, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. A mix of walks, play sessions, and interactive toys—like puzzle feeders—will help meet their mental and physical needs, according to Dr. Hart.
Breed Snapshot
- Breed Group: Terrier
- Height: 17–18 inches (females), 18–19 inches (males)
- Weight: 40–55 lbs (females), 55–70 lbs (males)
- Coat Type: Short and stiff
- Coat Colors: Wide range—black, brown, blue, fawn, red, and liver; often with brindle patterns or white markings
- Life Expectancy: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Brave, loving, and protective
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: United States
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever: The Classic, Lovable Family Dog
Labrador Retrievers are the gold standard when it comes to family-friendly dogs. Add a light brown (often called “fox red” or “lighter chocolate”) coat, a matching nose, and striking green eyes, and you’ve got a true head-turner. Labs are as beautiful as they are loyal.
Originally bred for hunting and retrieving, these energetic dogs are always up for the next adventure—whether it’s a game of fetch, a long walk, or a splash in the water. But don’t let their high energy fool you—Labs are incredibly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please. That’s why they excel as service dogs, therapy animals, and loving family companions alike.
Labrador Retriever at a Glance
- Breed Group: Sporting
- Height: 22.5–24.5 inches (males), 21.5–23.5 inches (females)
- Weight: 65–80 lbs (males), 55–70 lbs (females)
- Coat Type: Short, dense double coat that repels water
- Coat Colors: Black, chocolate, or yellow (including light brown shades)
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
- Temperament: Friendly, active, and highly social
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Newfoundland, refined in the United Kingdom
Labrador Retrievers aren’t just America’s favorite dog—they’re a joyful addition to any home. Their affectionate nature and boundless energy make them ideal for families, active singles, and anyone looking for a loyal companion.
Schnauzer
Schnauzer: The Bearded Pup With a Bold Look and a Big Heart
Is there anything that complements striking green eyes quite like a bushy beard and those signature expressive eyebrows? Fans of the green-eyed, German-born Schnauzer certainly don’t think so. These distinctive dogs come in three sizes—Miniature, Standard, and Giant—but all share that iconic look: a wiry, low-shedding coat and a face full of character.
Schnauzers are known for their intelligent and spirited personalities. They often have hazel, green, or brown eyes, with the green-eyed pups drawing extra admiration for their unique appearance. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them a great pick for allergy-sensitive homes, but regular grooming is a must to keep those famous eyebrows and beards neat—and to make sure their gorgeous eyes stay front and center.
Standard Schnauzer Overview
- Breed Group: Working
- Height: 18–20 inches (males), 17–19 inches (females)
- Weight: 35–50 lbs (males), 30–45 lbs (females)
- Coat Type: Harsh, wiry double coat
- Coat Colors: Solid black or classic salt and pepper
- Life Expectancy: 13–16 years
- Temperament: Bright, loyal, energetic, and playful
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Origin: Germany
Whether you choose a Mini, Standard, or Giant Schnauzer, you’re getting a bold, bearded companion with a heart full of love—and eyes that are impossible to forget.
Chihuahua
Green-Eyed Chihuahua: A Tiny Pup With a Big Personality
If you’re looking for a fiercely loyal lapdog with striking green eyes, a Chihuahua might just be your perfect match. These tiny dogs pack a ton of personality into their small frame and are known for their deep bond with their humans. While they may be a bit wary of strangers at first—and can show a protective streak—Chihuahuas are also highly adaptable. With proper socialization and training, they can learn to welcome new faces with ease, notes Dr. Hannah Hart, DVM.
Despite weighing in at no more than 6 pounds, Chihuahuas are surprisingly active and can enjoy many of the same activities as larger breeds. Think walks, fetch, swimming, and even agility training. Just be sure to keep an eye on them during playtime with bigger pets, and avoid letting them jump from high surfaces to protect their tiny limbs.
Chihuahua Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Toy
- Height: 5–8 inches
- Weight: Up to 6 pounds
- Coat Type: Smooth or longhaired
- Coat Colors: A wide range, including black, tan, blue and tan, chocolate, fawn, cream, red, and more
- Life Expectancy: 14–16 years
- Temperament: Loyal, alert, bright, and affectionate
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Mexico
Whether they’re curled up in your lap or strutting confidently on a walk, Chihuahuas with their bold attitude and dazzling green eyes are sure to steal the spotlight—and your heart.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu: The Regal, Long-Haired Companion With a Rich History
While most Shih Tzus are known for their deep, dark brown eyes, some rare ones boast captivating green eyes paired with beautiful liver and white coats. This charming breed traces its roots back to the 14th century, born from a blend of the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Known for their luxurious long coats, many owners opt to keep their Shih Tzus’ hair neatly trimmed for easy care.
Originally bred as royal lapdogs for members of China’s Ming Dynasty, Shih Tzus were treasured companions and well-guarded family members. They remained relatively unknown outside Asia until the 20th century—first making their way to Europe around 1930, and arriving in the United States after World War II. Today, these petite pups are beloved worldwide, especially by those seeking a friendly, intelligent, and lively companion suited for apartment living.
Shih Tzu Breed Highlights
- Breed Group: Toy
- Height: 8–11 inches
- Weight: 9–16 pounds
- Coat Type: Long, flowing double coat
- Coat Colors: Nearly every color imaginable, with black, white, blue, gold, and liver being popular
- Life Expectancy: 10–16 years
- Temperament: Affectionate, smart, playful, alert, and loyal
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Origin: Tibet
With their charming personality and royal heritage, Shih Tzus continue to win hearts as ideal companions for any home.
Dachshund
Dachshund: The Lovable “Wiener Dog” With a Bold Spirit
Also affectionately known as “wiener dogs” or “doxies,” Dachshunds are a charming breed that sometimes sport striking green eyes, alongside more common brown or blue ones. Those with a merle coat may even have heterochromia—a fascinating trait where one eye is green or blue and the other brown, which is completely harmless.
Dachshunds are known for their spirited and sometimes stubborn nature. Pam Weiner, president of Dachshund Rescue South Florida, shares that many rescued doxies prefer cozy indoor pads to braving rainy weather. Bred originally as hunters, these little pups often display lively hunting instincts, such as excited barking when spotting a squirrel outside. Despite their boldness, “most dachshunds like nothing more than a lap to sit on,” making them affectionate companions.
Dachshund Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Hound
- Height: 8–9 inches (standard), 5–6 inches (miniature)
- Weight: 16–32 pounds (standard), up to 11 pounds (miniature)
- Coat Types: Smooth (shorthaired), longhaired, and wirehaired
- Coat Colors: Wide range including black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red—with markings like dapple, piebald, brindle, and sable
- Life Expectancy: 12–16 years
- Temperament: Clever, playful, stubborn, devoted, lively, independent, and courageous
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Germany
Whether curling up in your lap or eagerly alert to the world outside, Dachshunds bring endless personality and charm to any home.
Great Dane
Great Dane: The Gentle Giant With Stunning Eyes
Many Great Dane puppies start life with captivating blue eyes that typically change to warm brown as they grow. However, Harlequin Great Danes—known for their striking dark patches on a white coat—often keep their mesmerizing blue eyes or even show rare green ones, making them truly unforgettable.
Despite being one of the largest dog breeds, with males reaching up to 200 pounds, Great Danes are surprisingly adaptable. They don’t need vast amounts of space, as long as they have a cozy bed or a comfy spot on the couch to lounge in after daily outdoor exercise.
Great Dane Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Working
- Height: 30–34 inches (males), 28–32 inches (females)
- Weight: 120–200 pounds (males), 99–130 pounds (females)
- Coat Type: Short and smooth
- Coat Colors: Variety of colors including black, black and white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, merle, silver, solid white, and mantle
- Life Expectancy: 6–8 years
- Temperament: Calm, gentle, friendly, loving, even-tempered, attentive, and proud
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Germany
With their regal presence and affectionate nature, Great Danes make loving and loyal companions who truly live up to the nickname “gentle giants.”
Weimaraner
Weimaraner: The Elegant Hunter With Soulful Eyes
Weimaraners were born to fill big shoes—or rather, big paws. Germany’s Grand Duke set out to create the ultimate hunting companion by crossing bloodhounds with German and French hunting dogs, resulting in the breed we know today. Originally, these powerful dogs tracked large game like bears, mountain lions, and wolves before moving on to smaller prey such as birds.
With their floppy ears and expressive eyes—which can be blue, green, or brown—it’s easy to overlook their fierce hunting heritage. Still, Weimaraners are energetic and intelligent dogs that need plenty of exercise and room to run and play to stay happy and healthy.
Weimaraner Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Sporting
- Height: 25–27 inches (males), 23–25 inches (females)
- Weight: 70–90 pounds (males), 55–75 pounds (females)
- Coat Type: Short and stiff
- Coat Color: Shades of gray
- Life Expectancy: 11–13 years
- Temperament: Strong, intelligent, steady, energetic, sometimes stubborn, alert, and a bit aloof
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Germany
With their sleek looks and loyal nature, Weimaraners make devoted companions for active families who can meet their exercise needs and appreciate their noble history.
English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel: The Joyful Pup With Soulful Green Eyes
If eyes truly are windows to the soul, then one glance into this green-eyed English Springer Spaniel’s gaze reveals a happy, loving dog who adores their family. Their eyes may also be hazel, blue, or dark brown, always framed by those signature floppy ears with soft feathered tips.
Bred originally as skilled hunters, English Springer Spaniels still carry a strong prey drive. It’s important to carefully introduce them to smaller pets and supervise play to keep everyone safe. With consistent training and plenty of daily exercise—at least an hour a day—these energetic dogs shine as affectionate, loyal family companions.
English Springer Spaniel Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Sporting
- Height: 19–20 inches
- Weight: 40–50 pounds
- Coat Type: Medium-length, flat or wavy glossy topcoat with a soft, dense undercoat; feathering on ears, legs, and chest
- Coat Colors: Black or liver with white markings (or reversed), plus blue or liver roan; tricolor patterns including black, white, and tan may also appear
- Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
- Temperament: Cheerful, intelligent, attentive, affectionate, alert, and active
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: England
With their lively spirit and loving nature, English Springer Spaniels make wonderful companions for active families who appreciate a dog full of energy and heart.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd: The Smart, Spirited Herding Companion With Stunning Green Eyes
Despite their name, the Australian Shepherd’s roots are actually tied to the American frontier. These friendly, family-oriented dogs often showcase their herding instincts by gently guiding other pets—and even young children—around the home. What truly sets them apart are their intelligence, energetic personality, and unique appearance, which can include striking merle coats, naturally bobbed tails, and vivid green eyes that capture attention.
Australian Shepherd Breed Overview
- Breed Group: Herding
- Height: 18–21 inches (females), 20–23 inches (males)
- Weight: 40–55 pounds (females), 50–65 pounds (males)
- Coat Type: Medium-length double coat
- Coat Colors: Blue merle, red merle, black, or red; often with white markings and/or tan (copper) points
- Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
- Temperament: Intelligent, active, and energetic
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: United States
Caring for Your Dog’s Eyes—No Matter the Color
Whether your dog’s eyes are green, brown, blue, or any shade in between, keeping them healthy is essential. Keep an eye out for signs of discomfort such as redness, excessive discharge, or itchiness, which could indicate common eye issues needing veterinary attention. As your dog ages, be sure to monitor for any changes in vision or cloudiness and discuss these with your vet to ensure your furry friend’s eyes stay bright and clear for years to come.