Are you captivated by dogs with amber eyes? It’s not surprising since amber (golden) eyes reflect a wide range of hues, from rich, deep gold to lighter, honeyed amber, showcasing a rare beauty that is both mesmerizing and enchanting. This unique eye color is relatively rare and can only be found in a few breeds, making dog breeds with amber eyes stand out in the vast canine world.
Join us to discover 20 dog breeds that can have amber eyes.
Why Do Some Dogs Have Amber Eyes?
The color of a dog’s eyes primarily stems from genetic factors linked to pigmentation. Melanin, a pigment present in both humans and dogs, plays a key role in determining eye color.
In dogs, there are two primary types of melanin—black pigment (eumelanin) and brown pigment (pheomelanin). These pigments not only affect the color of a dog’s eyes but also the color of their coat and skin.
Amber eyes tend to be more common in breeds with liver, blue, or isabella (a pale gray-brown or diluted liver) coats. This is because the gene in question typically inhibits the production of black pigment and instead produces brown pigment, leading to lighter colored eyes and coats.
This genetic characteristic is autosomal recessive, meaning a dog needs to inherit two copies of the gene, one from each parent, for the trait to manifest. Breeds like the Weimaraner, Vizsla, and Rhodesian Ridgeback often carry this genetic trait, making them more likely to have amber eyes.
Dog Breeds with Amber Eyes
This list encompasses a range of breeds where amber or gold-colored eyes are either a breed standard or commonly occur due to genetic variations associated with coat color. We have also added to our list, dogs with predominantly brown eyes that can sometimes have amber eyes.
Please keep in mind that the presence of this eye color can vary within each breed and is often linked to specific coat colors. As you can see in the pictures below, most dogs have light brown or red fur.
1. Weimaraner
The most common eye color for adult Weimaraners is a light amber, blue-gray, or gray. Puppies are born with striking blue eyes, but these typically change color as they mature. Amber eyes in Weimaraners tend to manifest when the dog reaches adulthood, with the shade of amber varying from light to a deeper, richer hue.
Weimaraners are highly energetic and affectionate dogs, known for their strong loyalty and intelligence. They thrive on companionship and physical activity, making them excellent pets for active individuals or families willing to involve them in daily activities and exercise.
2. Vizsla
Vizslas are admired for their stunning golden rust coat and matching amber eyes, which are among the most distinctive features of the breed. The deep amber eye color is most common and desired, reflecting the breed’s warm and inviting appearance.
Vizslas are affectionate and highly energetic dogs, requiring ample physical and mental stimulation. They are known for their loyalty and strong desire to be close to their human companions, making them excellent family pets for active households.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks typically have eyes that match the color of their wheaten to red wheaten coats, ranging from light to dark amber.
These pups are known for their dignified and even-tempered nature. They are independent yet affectionate with their families, and their strong prey drive and athleticism make them excellent companions for active owners who can provide firm, consistent training and plenty of exercise.
4. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers typically have amber or yellowish eyes, which perfectly complement their distinctive, waterproof coat of various shades of brown, sedge, or deadgrass.
Chessies are strong, resilient dogs with a love for water and a remarkable work ethic, originally bred for duck hunting in the challenging conditions of the Chesapeake Bay. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them excellent family pets for active households. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a unique trait: some of them can smile.
5. Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds are distinguished by their rich, amber eyes, which perfectly complement their sleek, tan or chestnut coats. This eye color is a hallmark of the breed, enhancing their noble and elegant appearance.
Known for their speed, intelligence, and good-natured personality, Pharaoh Hounds are affectionate and playful with their families. They possess a unique blend of grace and athleticism, making them both excellent companions and skilled hunters. Their sensitivity and loyalty make them well-suited to family life, where they can be included in daily activities and exercise.
6. American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers can exhibit a range of eye colors, with amber being particularly captivating against their varied coat colors. Amber eyes are more commonly seen in lighter-colored dogs like the one pictured above.
American Pit Bull Terriers are known for their strength, confidence, and eagerness to please. They are affectionate with families and can be friendly with strangers if properly socialized. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are often gentle and loving companions, requiring regular exercise and firm, consistent training to thrive.
7. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds can have a wide range of eye colors, including amber, particularly in those with red or red merle coats. Their eyes can also be blue, brown, or even heterochromatic (two different colored eyes).
Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence, energy, and work ethic, thriving in active homes where they can participate in activities like agility, herding, or daily play sessions. Their loyalty and protective nature make them beloved guardians of their family.
8. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are well-known for their mesmerizing eyes, which can be blue, brown, amber, or even heterochromatic (two different colors). Amber eyes in Huskies are less common than blue or brown but are equally striking.
These dogs are energetic, playful, and resilient, with a history of endurance and hard work. Siberian Huskies are friendly and sociable, making them poor guard dogs but excellent companions. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
9. Basenji
Basenjis often have dark, almond-shaped eyes, but amber-colored eyes are not uncommon, accentuating their keen and alert demeanor.
Known as the barkless dog, Basenjis are unique not only for their silent nature but also for their cat-like grooming habits and independent personality. They are compact, athletic dogs, valued for their intelligence and affectionate nature towards their family.
10. Cirneco dell’Etna
Cirneco dell’Etna dogs typically have light amber to ochre eyes, which beautifully complement their sleek, tan to light red coats. This breed is admired for its elegant appearance and ancient heritage, hailing from Sicily and possessing a keen hunting instinct.
Despite their athletic build and hunting capabilities, they are affectionate and gentle companions, suited for families and individuals who appreciate an active, loyal dog.
11. Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hounds are known for their striking amber eyes, a feature that perfectly matches their coat colors and contributes to their elegant, deer-like appearance.
These hounds are not just visually appealing; they are also highly energetic, intelligent, and friendly, making them excellent pets for active families. Their impressive jumping ability and playful nature require a secure, spacious environment for them to exercise and explore.
12. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Amber eyes are common and blend harmoniously with the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever’s golden to dark red coat, although medium to dark brown eyes are more typical.
These retrievers are renowned for their exceptional intelligence, high energy levels, and friendly disposition, making them ideal companions for active outdoor enthusiasts. Their unique method of “tolling” ducks closer for hunters showcases their playful spirit and working dog credentials.
Dog Breeds with Brown Eyes But Some Have Amber Eyes
These dog breeds typically have brown eyes but on occasion can exhibit amber eyes. Particularly if they have a lighter coat.
13. Curly-Coated Retriever
Curly-Coated Retrievers typically have dark brown eyes, but those with liver-colored coats may exhibit amber eyes, providing a striking contrast to their unique, curly coats.
These dogs are known for their intelligence, versatility in the field, and a confident, independent nature. They stand out for their distinctive curly coats which provide protection in water and underbrush, making them excellent sporting and waterfowl hunting companions.
14. Great Dane
Great Danes typically exhibit deep, dark brown eyes, but fawn or brindle individuals can sometimes present amber eyes, adding to their noble and regal appearance.
These gentle giants are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them excellent companions despite their imposing size. Great Danes are truly gentle giants, combining grace with power and elegance, and they form strong, loving bonds with their families, often thinking of themselves as lap dogs despite their large stature.
15. Border Collie
Border Collies usually have dark brown eyes, but those with merle coats can have lighter, amber-colored eyes.
This breed is celebrated for its intelligence, intense gaze, and incredible herding ability, often considered the premier sheep herding dogs. Border Collies require a lot of physical and mental stimulation, making them ideal for active families or individuals involved in dog sports. Their eagerness to learn and work makes them highly trainable, but they thrive best with a job to do.
16. Kelpie
Australian Kelpies commonly have dark brown eyes, but lighter, amber eyes can be found in some individuals, particularly enhancing the expressive faces of those with lighter coat colors.
Kelpies are highly energetic, intelligent, and devoted dogs, excelling in agility, herding, and as loyal companions. Their work ethic is unmatched, making them indispensable to Australian farmers and an active family’s dream pet.
17. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers typically have dark brown eyes, but amber eyes can also occur, adding warmth to their intelligent expression.
These versatile hunting dogs are known for their energy, intelligence, and eagerness to please, making them excellent companions for active families or as working dogs in various fields. Their sleek, easy-care coats and friendly, trainable nature have made them popular among dog lovers.
18. German Wirehaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointers usually have dark brown eyes, but like their shorthaired counterparts, they can also exhibit amber eyes, which complement their distinctive wire-like coat.
They are hardy, energetic dogs, known for their versatility in hunting and loyalty to their family. Their wiry coat offers protection in rough cover, making them exceptional field dogs and affectionate companions.
19. Cane Corso
Cane Corsos generally have dark brown eyes, but lighter, amber eyes are also acceptable, particularly in lighter-colored individuals. Cane Corso Breed Standard
This breed is known for its powerful build, intelligence, and protective instincts, making them excellent guardians for the home. Cane Corsos are loyal and affectionate with their families, possessing a quiet confidence and a deep bond with their owners.
20. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers most commonly have dark brown eyes, but red or fawn Dobermans can have amber eyes. Doberman Pinscher Breed Standard
They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strong protective instincts, making them outstanding companions and protectors. Dobermans are energetic and require regular exercise, thriving in environments where they can be both physically and mentally stimulated.
Admiration of Amber Eyes
As we wrap up our admiration for dog breeds with amber eyes, we realize how these pups stand out not just for their striking looks but also for the genetic diversity they represent. Their unique eye color highlights the complex genetics behind dog breeds. Understanding and appreciating this diversity is key to recognizing the depth and variety within the canine world.