I am a sucker for a dog’s gaze those beautiful, big, soulful eyes just melt my heart everytime my dog look at me! Researchers call it the look of love! It boosts oxytocin levels in both humans and their pups.
Most dog owners would definitely agree with me on the fact that a dog’s eyes are the most expressive feature, and many canine breeds have mastered the art of communicating with their eyes.
Those understanding eyes are only plotting how to get more treats out of their human buddies. They have the power to put you under a spell and make you feel guilty, unless you have fulfilled their every desire.
As I explore the world of these big-eyed dog breeds, I am excited to share some of my favorite breeds with you that have perfected their eye spell to cast, win hearts, and capture your attention.
7 Big-Eyed Adorable Dog Breeds
1. Great Dane
Fair warning! This might cause excessive heart melting, spontaneous cuddling, and irreversible obsession with your Great Danes! I am not kidding, those adorable puppy dog eyes are like a magic trick that can turn even the toughest hearts into a puddle of love!
You see, I am a fan of this gentle giant, I mean, they are the best. Have you seen their massive size? According to GDCA, some males reach over 32 inches in height, and it’s like they are towering over everyone else! But despite their intimidating presence and ultimate sigma rizz, they are total softies at heart.
One thing that is super important to know about Great Danes is their short lifespan; they typically live between 6-8 years, which is totally heartbreaking for their owners, but also a great reminder to cherish the time we have with them.
They are like a teenager who hasn’t figured out their strength; they are adorably clumsy but respond well to training and learning manners. They are fiercely devoted to their families and make a marvelous companion for anyone who can handle their size and energy needs.
Did you know they were originally bred as guard dogs and hunting companions for German nobility? Talk about rich history!
Moreover, they are often called “lap dogs” due to their affectionate nature, and honestly, it’s the perfect way to sum them up!
2. Pug
Pugs! The adorable fools, these little bundles of joy, are everything. With their flat faces, wrinkly skin, and playful personality, it is no wonder they are a favorite among many dog owners who live in the cities!
They are social butterflies that thrive on human interaction and affection. They are loyal companions that follow you everywhere with their big brown eyes! They are highly adaptable and can thrive in small spaces, making them a perfect option for those with limited space.
However, they can be a bit stubborn. Consistent training and positive reinforcement can help them learn good manners. You should also get ready for their snoring and snorting, which does add to their charm.
Moreover, they are prone to heat-related problems and can get skin infections, as reported by the BBC. Taking care of these natural clowns is not that hard, as they do deserve love and care. They make sure to make their hooman laugh, and will do anything to get a treat or belly rub.
3. Saint Bernard
Now it’s time to talk about Saint Bernard! Imagine a dog who has Saint in its name! It’s a majestic dog with a heart of gold! Their biggest asset is their striking brown or blue eyes that have the power to convey a sense of security, kindness, and empathy that is hard to resist.
I love how their gentle nature and intelligence make them amazing companions. They have a way that makes you feel seen and understood, which is why they are highly valued in therapy work. I have always been fascinated by their history as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps.
They would locate stranded and lost travelers on the icy mountains and provide warmth and comfort until help arrived, as stated by Smithsonian Magazine. Their keen sense of smell and intuitive nature made them perfect for this job.
Just be ready to be covered in fur and drool and give up your place on the couch because they are not high energy and love to lounge when they have done all the rescuing. Their eyes are the window to their soul, and trust me, once you have looked in them, you will be hooked forever!
4. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin, a toy breed with a rich history and irresistible charm. Their eyes are truly magical, with a large, round shape and a dark, shining color that seems to sparkle with mischief.
They date back over 1,000 years to ancient Japan. They were bred as companions for the royalty and were a highly valued gift among noble families. They were also extremely valued as temple dogs. The eyes are not just a part of their charm or just beautiful to look at, they are a part of their expressive face.
Just look at them! They seem to convey a range of emotions, from playful curiosity to deep affection. The owners often report that their Chins’ eyes are incredibly expressive, and it’s not uncommon to “talk” and “communicate” with their owners with their eyes!
They are highly sensitive dogs and require gentle training and handling. The best thing about them is that they want to be involved in the family fun; they are very playful and love to chase toys and play with little children, as explained by JCCA.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahua! The Fiesty Soul! Those tiny, lively companions with an attitude that’s bigger than life. With big eyes, big hearts, and a bold personality no wonder they are a favourite among many Americans and Hollywood celebrities. They are confident, energetic, and create strong bonds with their owners.
But let’s get real now, Chihuahuas come with lots of challenges. Training them can be a struggle, as they are quite stubborn and have the ability to test your patience levels; they require consistent training. And just don’t let me get started on their socialization needs, these feisty fellas need early socialization to prevent fear-based behaviour in public because if they get nervous, they bark and they bark a lot!
They have a long lifespan, claims Purina, but are prone to many health issues, and some are related to their big eyes. So, it is highly recommended that you take them for regular eye exams to prevent any issues.
These devoted and intelligent companions learn quickly with positive reinforcement, plus their compact size makes them highly portable; they can even fit in your purse!
Here is your dose of oxytocin. Peter Pan, aka Paris Hilton’s Chi. I do remember, Legally Blonde also caused a roar with the matching outfits!
6. Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier: the adorable dogs with big, round eyes and oversized bat ears that have the ability to melt hearts with their soulful gaze. They are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and affectionate nature. As the official mascot of Boston University, they have a special place in the hearts of many.
But now let’s have some real talk! Cutness aside, they can be a handful. They are prone to snoring, which some people like; they can be stubborn at times, and they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. It’s an active, high-energy breed that can make you active as well.
They are social dogs that live on human interaction and love to be part of family life. Their cute eyes, short snout, bulky shoulders, and their adorable tuxedo markings make them stand out. They are a beloved breed, and it’s very easy to see why.
7. Basset Hound
This silly-looking dog with its floppy ears, soulful puppy eyes, a sweet face, and oh, the most laid-back vibes: What is not to love? They are the ultimate couch potatoes, but a rich history in hunting! Talk about a contrast!
There is one thing for sure: Basset Hounds are scent hounds at heart. They have got an incredible sense of smell and they will for sure follow their nose wherever it takes them, and usually it to their favourite snack. Just remember, you won’t be able to hide your snack with a Basset hound around.
They are a total sweetheart, calm, gentle, and loving, making them an absolutely amazing companion for individuals looking for a low-key buddy. Just be prepared for some serious snoring, baying, and drooling.
And before I forget, they love food, so it is your duty to keep their diet balanced, otherwise, they are only food motivated to exercise, and it will be very difficult for you to get them to lose any extra weight.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the world of big-eyed dog breeds, it’s clear that each of these breeds has its own unique charm and quirks. From the gentle giants like the Great Dane and the Saint Bernard to the playful, cute little Pugs and the energetic Chihuahua, these breeds have surely put us under the magic of their soulful stare.
Some other breeds that also have the ability to guilt-trap you with their puppy dog eyes are the notorious Golden Retriever and the Bernese Mountain Dog. Some mixed breeds like Cavapoo and Pomsky also have beautiful and mesmerizing eyes.
Just make sure to regularly clean any debris from your dog’s eyes to reduce any risk of infection. Watch out for health issues and make sure to get them regularly checked and vaccinated.
Just be prepared for some serious snuggles, whether you are a seasoned dog owner or a newcomer to the world of canine companionship, these breeds are sure to bring joy and energy into your life.
