If there is an award for the best animal pet ever, dogs will take the award home. For the longest time, they have been considered human beings’ best friends. They are our hunting buddies, housemates, and home companions. They are a true gift of nature to man.
Dogs come in various species, where some pups result from experimental cross-breeding by humans. Some crossbreeds include Australian Shepherd, American Staghound, Beaglier, Chiweenie, Chug, and Chorkie.
One of the Exceptional and spectacular species of pups is the blue dog. You might be wondering if they are royal blue or sky blue, but it’s not that. These puppies do not conform to the traditional definition of blue.
What Are Blue Dogs
A blue dog is more like a silvery-gray or frosty tint than true blue. Blue-coated dogs have a bluish sheen to their noses. Many have blue eyes that complement their blue coat sheen. The color blue can range from a bright, pastel blue to a darker, steely blue.
Blue dogs are available in a variety of sizes. Some breeds are noted for their blue coats, while others have the blue coat gene but do not conform to the breed standard. Many blue dog breeds, such as the blue tick, blue merle, blue harlequin, and blue brindle, are in demand. People appreciate them for their beautiful looks and unique blue coat markings.
Blue pup breeds inherit their parents’ recessive genes for blue coat coloring. Both parents do not need to be blue, but they must have the gene for a light black coat. This is also known as the merle gene. The merle gene might show up as speckled spots of color on your puppy.
Merle-pattern dogs’ pigment production is inconsistent, which explains their bluish color. Blue merle dogs are also more likely to have blue eyes or heterochromia. Which means they have two colored eyes.
It’s crucial to be aware of the illness that only affects dogs with colored fur, which is Color dilution alopecia. It’s an inherent hair loss condition that affects dogs with light coat color, like blue or fawn. A recessive gene causes this genetic condition, making root hairs break and reducing hair development.
Blue Dog Breeds
There are various breeds of blue dogs. However, sometimes some pseudo-blue dogs might be mistaken for blue dogs(we will address the difference after this part of this article).
Here are 15 breeds of actual blue dogs that you will love
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cattle dog, sometimes known as the blue heeler, is an obvious choice here. It is one of the most incredible blue dog breeds. The breed standard of this puppy specifies that the dog’s blue coat must be solid, mottled, or speckled. Other black or tan markings may exist, but the general appearance is consistent.
2. The Blue Lace
The blue Lacy is a rare blue dog breed established by the Lacy brothers in Texas. This establishment happened in the mid-1800s, and it announced this pup as a rancher’s right-hand and herding hound. This breed is the Texas mascot, despite the fact that the AKC does not yet recognize it.
These dogs have a recessive trait that causes them to have a blue coat, although they can also have red, cream, or tricolor puppies. Lacy, the blue, is noted for her natural talent for work and superior intelligence.
3. The Italian GreyHound
Although the Italian Greyhound can be sporty, you’ll find them resting and relaxing most of the time. Their favorite pastime is relaxing in a warm location in the sun. They are prone to falling in love with their owners.
They do, however, act shy around strangers or when traveling outside of their comfort zone. They feel more confident and overcome their apprehensive behavior as a result of early socializing.
Training can be difficult at times, and potty training can be incredibly stressful. However, these dogs are so sensitive. So, the only method of training them that will work is positive training.
4. French Bulldog
A “Frenchie” is unlike any other dog. Their bat-like ears, massive square skull, and goofy disposition make them stand out. French Bulldogs are wrinkly little comedians who are friendly, curious, and wrinkly.
They’re skilled at making friends and blend in nicely with their families. They don’t usually bark, but they’ll grunt when they’re aroused or annoyed.
They have problems breathing since they are flat-faced. Avoid excessive exertion and hot temperature. Frenchies are unable to swim, so it will be best to exercise caution when bathing or around bodies of water.
5. The Great Dane
The Great Dane is the most laid-back of all the dogs. They spend their days observing or napping in the sun in a relaxed manner. While they love to unwind, their sheer size poses some difficulties. Calling them “great” is not an exaggeration.
They are both large and tall. These big gentle puppies are often unaware of their size. So they need a little training on walking and not accidentally disrupting your home.
6. Whippets
Whippets, like Italian Greyhounds, are a popular racing breed that hunters previously employed for rabbit hunting. They thrive in agility and obedience events due to their athleticism and intelligence.
Despite their high energy levels, these dogs are surprisingly calm and appreciate a good slumber.
They like spending time with the entire family and can fit into almost any environment. They also don’t bark very often, and the only time they make noise is when they’re left alone.
7. Greyhound
You might believe that having a dog that can sprint as quickly as a car down a freeway will cause issues. On the other hand, Greyhounds have earned the nickname “World’s Fastest Couch Potato.” As you might expect, these dogs like resting, reclining, and hanging out in a warm blanket.
Greyhounds hardly bark or make noise unless they are left alone for a long time. They’re also extremely bright, which makes training a breeze. They are a cautious breed that may act shy around unfamiliar people and dogs. So it is vital that you socialize them with children at a young age for them to gain confidence.
8. American Staffordshire terrier
With this strong breed, appearances can be deceiving. While “Staffies” are portrayed as intimidating and ruthless, they are actually incredibly affectionate.
Keep in mind that this is a muscular dog with the ability to drag you on a leash with those tremendous muscles. Not to mention their jaw’s biting ability, which allows them to gnaw and destroy many toys (or furniture if bored).
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a smart, affectionate, and athletic breed. This makes it a lovable and easy-to-train buddy.
9. Irish Wolfhound
Genetics also causes a black coat to become mixed and appear blue in Irish wolfhounds. Some experts believe the wolfhound inherited this characteristic from the Great Dane, another huge blue dog breed. Many blue Irish wolfhounds appear grey at first glance. Their blue coats have a noticeable blue tint, and their paw pads, snout, and eye rims may be liver-colored.
10. Neapolitan Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their laziness. While they wouldn’t decline a walk, you’ll mainly find them sleeping or sunbathing. Their peaceful attitude makes them an excellent apartment pet provided you can put up with their size and drool.
Their short coat makes grooming straightforward. On the other hand, the mastiff’s jowls are another issue. The drool can become excessive depending on how excited they are. Cleaning the drool can be a hassle, especially if you have a tight schedule
Training these lovable sloths can be difficult because they can be stubborn, and their stubbornness will test your patience. They need forceful but fair leadership, or they’ll assume the role for themselves. Early training and socialization are essential to prevent negative behavior and even aggression.
11. Border Collie
In a nutshell, the Border is a fiercely intelligent dog who is always ready to work. This is a herding and working dog. As a result, Collies thrive when given a task or something to do.
A Border Collie’s energy has no bounds. You’ll be responsible for keeping them cognitively and physically occupied. This is your next best friend if you want a dog that is affectionate, intelligent, and very active.
12. Shar-pei
Shar-pei dogs are fiercely loyal to a fault. They usually only show respect to their immediate owner. These dogs can be cruel to children, other dogs, and others.
While the Shar-pei makes good security pups, they can be a bother for the average owner due to their short temper. They’ll most likely take over the house as the new boss if there isn’t an authoritative leader.
13. Dachshunds
Dachshunds (sometimes known as “Doxies”) are adorable small dogs who spend their days playing and napping. They can fit into almost any family pattern as long as they are with the people they care about.
These small puppies are extremely intelligent. Their intelligence makes learning new feats and routines a breeze for them and enjoyable for you. They are, however, notorious for being obstinate in other areas, particularly when it comes to potty training.
Blue dachshunds aren’t as famous as some of the other breeds on this list.
14. Coon Hound
The smooth, glossy coat of the bluetick coonhound is dark blue with heavily mottled or “ticked” black markings on the back, ears, and flanks. The mottling provides the impression that the color is navy blue. It predominantly has a black head and ears, with brown patterns on the face.
15. Australian Shepherd
Blue Australian shepherds have a merle coat pattern, which is popular within the breed. It has a merle coat that is a spotty sprinkling of grey hues and blue. Merle’s blue, grey, black, and white are standard Australian Shepherd’s coat colors.
Blue merle Australians can have magnificent blue, brown, or amber eyes, or even one blue and one brown eye.
Real Blue Dogs
True blues are born with the color blue. Their faded black, grey or silvery hue is part of them from birth.
While some dogs are born black, their color fades over time, giving them the appearance of being blue. This is mainly due to the concentration of the Merle Gene, or fading gene, which causes a bluish or graying effect.
You can also distinguish real blues by their nose. Dilution of pigments occurs outside of the coat as well. If your dog’s nose seems lighter in color or “blue,” you have a dilute puppy.
How Rare are Blue Dogs
The dilute gene is exceptionally abundant in certain breeds. They are so plentiful to the point where blue dogs are pretty widespread within the breed (such as Italian Greyhounds). It is highly uncommon in other breeds.
It is normal for owners to go out of their way to get rare hues and pay a high price. This can, unfortunately, lead to unscrupulous breeding techniques.
Dog Care Tips For Your Blue Dogs
Do not Overfeed your Pup
Overfeeding your pup could negatively influence their health and happiness. Pups can become obese. Over half of all canines in the United States are obese, and the figure continues to rise.
Overweight dogs are more likely to get metabolic challenges and cardiovascular illness. In addition, they get joint disease, a weakened immune system, and other health issues.
Put your hand on your dog’s nose.
The cap of your dog’s nose should be moist. The amount of moisture in a dog’s coat varies depending on the breed and the season, but a healthy dog will always have a wet nose. This is because they release sweat from their nose.
Make annual visits to the veterinarian.
Allow the vet to inspect your dog regularly. Doing this will allow you to screen for and spot health issues. It will also provide you with the most up-to-date, individualized information to help you keep your beloved pet healthy for many years.
Make a Pet “first aid” kit.
Accidents and emergencies happen even if you don’t plan for them. Having all of the necessary equipment to aid your pup is crucial and a responsible thing to have. This is especially vital if you’re hiking or camping with your dog and will be far from help. Every dog owner should own a pet first aid kit, whether bought or homemade.
Close your trash.
Pups are attracted to the delightful fragrance of rubbish and may eat harmful, dangerous, or indigestible items, so secure your trash. Harmful objects or chemicals in the doggie gut may require expensive emergency procedures.
Provide a secure environment for your dog.
Set up a nice section in your home with your dog’s bed, blanket, toys, and a water bowl. This area will become your pup’s safe place and where your pup can take naps. This can help your dog to self-soothe in stressful situations such as parties, crying babies, or thunderstorms.
Keep toxic substances stashed somewhere difficult to reach.
Keep household chemicals like cleansers and insecticides away from your dog every time. Smart doggies can and will get into anything you keep in the garage or under the kitchen sink. Seal cabinets with harmful chemicals with baby-proof locks.
Wash your dog’s belongings often.
Germs, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants wind up on your dog’s blankets, soft toys, and bedding. To keep these belongings neat and free from germs for your dog, wash them weekly. If your dog has seasonal allergies, washing might be very crucial to lowering pollen exposure.
For the sake of your dog’s health and happiness, take him for a walk.
Regular walks benefit your dog in various ways, including preventing boredom, aiding digestion, maintaining a healthy weight, and helping them burn off excess energy. You may notice that negative habits such as chewing, barking, or digging lessen as a result of providing them with a positive outlet.
Add variety to your life to avoid boredom.
Adding more miles to walks in your dog’s regular schedule will help to break up the monotony. To change your hound’s scenery, take them to a dog-friendly restaurant or drive-in. To mentally stimulate your canine, take them on errands with you and change their toys.
Conclusion
Blue dogs do not conform to the regular blue hue but are rather gray, silver, or faded black. But they are spectacular anyways and come in various breeds. Next time you want to pick an exotic canine friend. These fine dogs are a great option.
*photo by MadeleinWolf – depositphotos
