Ever seen a puppy with one blue eye and one brown? That captivating trait is called canine heterochromia, and here at Blazin’ Trails Bottle Babies, we’re celebrating it in full color. Several of our recent rescued puppies are sporting mismatched eyes—and they’re living proof that rescue dogs come in the most beautiful forms.

Petunia has complete heterochromia

What Is Canine Heterochromia?

Heterochromia is a condition in which each eye is a different color. It’s caused by variations in melanin, the pigment that gives color to the eyes, skin, and coat.

This trait is typically harmless and only affects eye appearance—not vision.

Types of Heterochromia

• Complete Heterochromia: One eye is entirely a different color from the other (e.g., one blue, one brown).

• Sectoral Heterochromia: A single eye contains two colors.

• Central Heterochromia: A ring of one color surrounds a different-colored pupil.

Riley has complete heterochromia

What Causes It?

Most heterochromia in dogs is genetic and shows up at birth or during the first few weeks of life. It’s especially common in certain breeds but can also appear in mixed breeds.

Breeds Often Seen with Heterochromia

• Siberian Huskies

• Australian Shepherds

• Border Collies

• Dalmatians

• Catahoula Leopard Dogs

Is Heterochromia Dangerous?

In the vast majority of cases, heterochromia is completely benign and does not affect vision or overall health. It’s purely cosmetic.

When to Be Concerned

If a dog’s eye color changes suddenly, or if the eye appears cloudy, red, painful, or overly sensitive to light, it could be a sign of:

• Eye injury

• Uveitis (inflammation)

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a vet visit to rule out medical issues.

Fun Facts About Heterochromia

• It doesn’t fade with age if it’s genetically based

• Some cultures believe dogs with two different eyes bring good luck

• Puppies’ eye color can shift in the first weeks of life, but true heterochromia remains

Rudy has complete heterochromia

Beautiful Eyes, Beautiful Souls

At Blazin’ Trails, we know a dog’s value isn’t based on appearance—but sometimes, nature gives us a reminder of just how stunning rescue can be.

If a pair of mismatched puppy eyes has stolen your heart, you might be looking at your future best friend.

👉 Adopt a one-of-a-kind rescue puppy:
https://blazintrailsbottlebabies.org/adopt/

Want to Learn More About Puppy Health?

For a deeper dive into early puppy care and what to do in critical moments, read one of our most powerful stories:
“Loretta’s Fight: A Case Study on Fading Puppy Syndrome and How to Respond”
https://blazintrailsbottlebabies.org/lorettas-fight-a-case-study-on-fading-puppy-syndrome-and-how-to-respond/