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Melanin levels may also affect the eye color in Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls with this genetic mutation are more prone to be blue-eyed. The ALX4 GeneĪ study, where 6,000 dogs’ complete genetic profiles were analyzed, carried out 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. However, being a carrier doesn’t always guarantee blue eyes in Pit Bulls or any dog. This gene is responsible for random pigment dilution (lightening) of the nose, eyes, and fur.
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Pit Bulls that are carriers of the merle gene (M-locus) are more likely to develop blue eyes. These are three main reasons that make Pit Bulls have blue eyes. If your Pit Bull has a long family history of blue eyes, then he or she is most likely to have blues eyes. Genetics, however, is still the number one cause of blue-eyed Pities. While the default eye color for most dogs is brown, genetics, pigmentation, and health issues are the main factors that can alter your Pit Bull’s eye colors. Let’s understand why Pit Bulls develop those piercing blue eyes. However, for this article, we will use the word “Pit Bull” to refer to all of the above as they all share the same origins and genetic makeup of “Pit Bulls” and as you will learn later on this article blue eyes in dogs are more related to genetics than anything else. We know some people may argue that the American Pitbull Terrier is the only Pitbull type dog. These dogs include the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. Note: Officially, the term “Pit Bull” is not a breed but a label used for dogs who descend from Bulldogs and Terriers.