French Bulldogs With Blue Eyes: The Truth About Blue-Eyed Frenchies

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.

Blue eyes in French Bulldogs can be a captivating and rare trait that draws attention, but they also raise important questions about the health and genetics of these charming dogs. While the sight of a Frenchie with striking blue eyes might be irresistible, it’s essential to understand the underlying factors that contribute to this unique eye color. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs often carry specific genetic traits that can impact their appearance and overall health. This article explores blue-eyed French Bulldogs, including what you need to know before bringing one of these distinctive dogs into your home.

How Rare Are Blue Eyes in French Bulldogs

We surveyed 203 French Bulldog parents and found that only 16 out of 203 (or 7.8%) Frenchies had blue eyes. This statistic underscores the unique appeal of blue-eyed individuals within the breed, making them a relatively rare find among their predominantly dark-eyed counterparts.

Reasons French Bulldogs Have Blue Eyes

The default eye color for dogs is brown. However, genetics, pigmentation, and health issues can all alter the color of a dog’s eye. These are the main reasons French Bulldogs could develop blue eyes.

The Merle Gene

French Bulldogs carrying the merle gene (M-locus) are more likely to develop blue eyes. This gene is responsible for random pigment dilution (lightening) of the nose, eyes, and fur. However, being a carrier doesn’t always guarantee blue eyes in Frenchies or any dog.

The ALX4 Gene

A study analyzing the complete genetic profiles of 6,000 dogs, conducted by Embark Veterinary (one of the largest dog DNA testing companies), discovered that a genetic mutation near the gene known as ALX4 is strongly associated with blue eyes in dogs. French Bulldogs with this genetic mutation are more prone to have blue eyes.

Melanin Levels

Melanin levels can influence the eye color of French Bulldogs. Melanin, a pigment in the iris, is crucial in determining a dog’s eye color. Generally, dogs with higher melanin levels in their iris tend to have brown eyes. Conversely, a lower concentration of melanin results in lighter eye colors. So, what causes lower levels of melanin in a dog’s iris? The gene responsible for modifying eumelanin, the black pigmentation in melanin, in French Bulldogs is known as the “M (merle) locus gene.” This genetic modification results in pigment loss, leading to various eye colors in Frenchies, ranging from pale brown to shades of blue.

The Link Between Blue Eyes and Health Issues in French Bulldogs

Blue eyes in French Bulldogs could affect their health and increase the likelihood of significant health concerns.

Deafness

Blue eyes in dogs are often linked to hearing impairments. Congenital deafness is present in certain dog breeds that carry the Merle and Piebald genes. Being a carrier of these genes does not necessarily mean a dog will be deaf, but French Bulldogs with these genes have a higher likelihood of experiencing partial or complete deafness. The Merle gene, which causes a mottled or patchwork coat pattern, is associated with congenital deafness as it can affect the pigmentation of the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. Similarly, the Piebald gene, responsible for producing spotted or multicolored coats, can also contribute to deafness due to a lack of mature melanocytes (melanin-producing cells) in the inner ear, which is essential for normal hearing.

Retired French Bulldog breeder Karen Dibert says:

“Frenchies who are all white or all black with no trace of brindle carry the deaf gene and can produce blue-eyed dogs with eye problems. Liver or chocolate colors, as seen commonly (and safely)”

Dogs should undergo hearing tests, and only those with healthy ears should be considered for breeding. If you’re considering adopting a deaf dog or already own one, learning how to communicate effectively with them is essential. Additionally, using a collar designed for deaf dogs and ensuring they wear a dog ID tag can help keep them safe, as they are more susceptible to accidents, such as road traffic incidents.

Blindness

French Bulldogs with blue eyes may potentially develop vision defects. The presence of blue eyes in French Bulldogs can indicate that your pet carries the Merle gene, which is a dominant gene. However, it is essential to note that not all blue-eyed French Bulldogs will inevitably become blind. The likelihood of eye defects, such as blindness, is higher if both parents carry the Merle gene and pass it on to their offspring. Animals that are “double merle,” meaning they have two copies of the Merle (M/M) gene, are primarily white and more susceptible to various health issues, including blindness.

Albinism

Albinism in French Bulldogs, as in other dog breeds, is an extremely rare genetic condition characterized by a complete absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for coloring the skin, hair, and eyes. Albinism in dogs is primarily caused by a mutation in the TYR gene (Tyrosinase gene). This gene produces an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is critical in producing melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. True albino dogs will have very pale skin, white fur, and light-colored (often pink or blue) eyes.

Other Eye Health Problems

Frenchies occasionally have eye conditions such as hereditary cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion.

Health Checks & Care Tips For Blue-Eyed French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs Don’t Actually Have Blue Eyes

Although a French Bulldog’s eyes may appear blue, they are not truly blue. According to Geneticist Kristopher Irizarry from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences, French Bulldogs and other dogs with blue eyes do not possess actual blue-colored eyes. While brown eyes in dogs derive their color from melanin, dogs with blue eyes have colorless irises that lack any pigment. The coloration of blue eyes is achieved through a mechanism similar to the blue color of water and the sky. This occurs because all the light entering the eyes of a French Bulldog is scattered back into the atmosphere, creating the optical illusion of a blue appearance.

French Bulldogs With Blue Eyes Appearance

French Bulldogs with blue eyes have a distinctive and striking appearance, with eye colors ranging from icy blue to a deeper, grayish-blue shade. This rare eye color creates a captivating contrast, especially against darker coat colors like black, brindle, or dark fawn. Blue eyes are often seen in French Bulldogs with merle, dilute (blue or lilac), or piebald coats, where the light eyes and lighter coat patches create a unique, eye-catching look. Their expressive gaze and sturdy, muscular build give blue-eyed French Bulldogs a memorable and sought-after appearance.

Eye Color Characteristics

According to the United Kennel Club breed standard for French Bulldogs, eyes in Frenchies should be dark in color, wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. In lighter-colored dogs, lighter-colored eyes are acceptable. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. Anything outside this description, including blue eyes, is considered a serious fault and not a standard.

French Bulldog Coat Color & The Relationship With Blue Eyes

The coat color of a French Bulldog is closely related to the likelihood of having blue eyes, as certain genetic factors tied to specific coat colors and patterns can lead to this striking eye color. French Bulldogs with a merle coat pattern, characterized by a mottled mix of lighter and darker patches, are particularly prone to blue eyes. The Merle gene, which dilutes pigmentation in the coat, eyes, and sometimes the skin, often results in one or both eyes being blue. Similarly, French Bulldogs with dilute coat colors, such as “blue” (a diluted black) or “lilac” (a diluted combination of chocolate and blue), can also have blue eyes. These dogs might be born with blue eyes that persist or change as they mature.

Additionally, French Bulldogs with piebald coats, which feature large white patches alongside other colors, or those with predominantly white coats, are more likely to have blue eyes. The Piebald gene reduces pigmentation in certain areas, including the eyes, leading to the potential for blue eyes. Overall, the presence of blue eyes in French Bulldogs is strongly linked to coat colors and patterns affected by the Merle and Piebald genes and dilution genes, all of which can alter pigmentation and produce the distinctive blue eye color.

You can find blue-eyed French Bulldogs with the following coat colors:

French Bulldog Eye Colors — By Coat Color

Here are some blue-eyed French Bulldog pictures with different coat colors.

Other less common eye colors in French Bulldogs include:

Blue-Eyed French Bulldog Puppy

French Bulldog puppies with blue eyes are an adorable and striking sight, but remember some essential tips and precautions before breeding or purchasing one. Firstly, if you’re getting your French Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder, they should provide you with a record of genetic health testing conducted on the parents and your puppy. This information is crucial for understanding your puppy’s potential health risks. Responsible breeders will typically have the entire litter tested to ensure that all the puppies can hear. If this hasn’t been done, it’s reasonable to request it from the breeder.

Will My Frenchie Puppy Have Blue Eyes For Ever?

Most French Bulldog puppies are born with blue or bluish-gray eyes, as melanin production does not start until they are 3 to 4 weeks old. Their blue eye color often changes as they grow and the pigment in their eyes develops. By the time they are around 10 to 16 weeks old, many Frenchies’ eyes will darken to shades of brown or amber. However, if your Frenchie has certain genetic traits, such as the Merle gene or dilution genes associated with blue or lilac coats, there’s a higher chance that their blue eyes may persist into adulthood. Ultimately, while some French Bulldogs retain their blue eyes, many will experience a change in eye color as they mature. Some breeds, such as the Siberian Husky, are the exception.

Price

Breeders usually sell French Bulldog puppies with good bloodlines at starting prices of $4,000 to $15,000. Reputable breeders will charge more as it costs a lot of money to keep dogs healthy to breed. They may also increase the cost if you are looking for a blue-eyed French Bulldog with a specific coat color or other traits.

French Bulldogs With Blue Eyes For Sale

Finding a reputable Blue-Eyed French Bulldog breeder can be challenging. A good starting point is local animal shelters or dog rescue organizations. While finding a French Bulldog with blue eyes for free is rare, opportunities can occasionally arise. Exploring options with local breeders in your area is also advisable. For those interested in pre-screened, healthy teacup puppies, Pawrade and PuppySpot are recommended resources that offer puppies from reputable U.S. breeders. Requesting medical records and certifications for the parents and the French Bulldog puppy to verify health screenings is crucial, ensuring a higher likelihood of your puppy being healthy.

Blue-Eyed Frenchie In Action

Watch this adorable Frenchie puppy with blue eyes play around!

Temperament & Personality

The temperament and personality of a French Bulldog with blue eyes are generally consistent with the breed’s overall characteristics, as eye color does not significantly influence behavior. French Bulldogs are known for being affectionate, playful, and social dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are often described as adaptable, making them well-suited to apartments and larger homes. These dogs typically have a friendly and outgoing personality, enjoying interaction with family members and being especially good with children.

French Bulldogs are also known for their stubborn streak, which can make training a bit challenging, but they are intelligent and eager to please, which helps them learn with positive reinforcement. They tend to be less vocal than other small breeds but still have a strong, expressive personality, often displaying a good sense of humor and a love for attention.

The presence of blue eyes does not change these core traits. However, it’s important to be aware that French Bulldogs with blue eyes may carry certain genetic factors, like the Merle gene, that can be associated with specific health considerations. Ensuring they are well-cared for and given proper attention can help maintain their typically cheerful and affectionate nature. A French Bulldog with blue eyes will have the same loving and charming temperament that makes the breed so popular.

According to the American Kennel Club, the Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and intelligent. They are even-tempered for the most part, but they require attention. They are minimal barkers but will start barking when they find cause for excitement. They tend to snort quite a bit, another distinctive characteristic of this breed. Frenchies are always alert and aware of their surroundings, making them excellent watchdogs. Frenchies are comfortable companions with an affectionate nature but not unduly boisterous.

Breeding French Bulldog With Blue Eyes

One reason why breeding French Bulldogs with blue eyes is sometimes frowned upon, considered unethical, and inhumane by some is because of the increased likelihood of health issues in the puppies. When two merle (Mm) carrier dogs are bred together, the chance of producing a double merle (MM) litter increases significantly. Double-rule puppies are extremely prone to genetic diseases such as deafness and blindness. While blue-eyed French Bulldogs can still produce healthy offspring, but their puppies are more susceptible to congenital health issues than puppies born from a single merle carrier (Mm) and a non-carrier (m/m).

To ensure responsible breeding practices, breeding a Merle French Bulldog is recommended only with a non-merle/non-cryptic Merle dog. Selecting a female and male from healthy bloodlines is essential when breeding French Bulldogs. Breeding French Bulldogs with blue eyes should follow the same standards as breeding non-blue eyes. It is advised to wait until the female French Bulldog is two years old and after her second heat cycle before breeding. It is also important not to breed female French Bulldogs in two consecutive heat seasons to allow sufficient time for recovery. The expected litter size typically ranges between 3 and 7 puppies.

History

The French Bulldog breed originated as a miniature version of the English Bulldog in England during the 1850s. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, many industrial workers migrated to France, bringing their small Bulldogs. It was in France that these dogs became known as “Frenchies.” However, the early versions of the French Bulldog were not the same as the modern breed we know today. As the breed’s popularity grew in France, breeders began crossbreeding these small bulldogs with other breeds, possibly including terriers and pugs. This selective breeding eventually led to the development of the French Bulldog’s now-famous bat ears, which are a defining characteristic of the breed. Although the bat ears were present in some of the dogs brought to France, French breeders refined and popularized this trait, shaping the breed into its current form.

Despite the name “French Bulldog,” the breed did not originate in France, but the French played a significant role in its development and gave the breed its French name, “Bouledogue Français.” The breed’s popularity steadily increased, and it was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1898. By 1940, although only a few hundred French Bulldogs were registered with the AKC, the breed had already gained a strong following and was among the top ten most popular breeds in Great Britain, Australia, and the United States.

The Bottom Line

Generally, Frenchies make good pets and are great with families or single dog owners. If lapdogs are your thing and you find pushed-in faces adorable, then the French Bulldog is an excellent breed for you. Frenchies get along well with other pets and adapt quickly to new situations. They do not require many outdoor exercises, so if you are an active person who likes to take your pets on runs, you may want to consider a different breed. They can be stubborn, but at heart, they’re people pleasers and, therefore, easy to train, says the AKC. Frenchies are prone to breathing difficulties and may require extra care as a flat-faced breed.

If you are set on getting a Frenchie, the canine author of The French Bulldog Bible, Susanne Saben, offers the best advice to raise a happy, healthy French Bulldog. One of the biggest downfalls to owning one is the health concerns we covered in this article. You need to do your research to find a healthy blue-eyed Frenchie.

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Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.