Many dogs are born with bulging eyes, and it’s one of the things that makes them so adorable. Just like humans, dogs have distinctive features that set them apart from other members of their species. Some dog lovers favor big eyed dog breeds, deeming them cute, charming, and in some ways, a little amusing.
Of course, not all dogs have bulging eyes. If your dog has suddenly developed bulging peepers, that’s a sign something’s not right, and you should go get him checked out by a veterinarian.
However, if you’re simply curious about the different dogs with bulging eyes, here is a list of the top nine canine breeds with extra large globes. And a few interesting facts about each one!
Pug
Small in body size, pugs boast bold and expressive eyes that bulge. Their eyes are also uniquely positioned, making them appear to be looking in two different directions at the same time. A pug’s eyes are further enhanced by the breed’s flat, wrinkled face and short nuzzle, which makes their eyes pop out. And they have a large personality to match!
It’s really no wonder that pugs are so popular – both as a pet and on Instagram by dog-loving admirers. Besides being obviously cute, pugs are extremely entertaining. It’s one of the reasons many people choose them as pets.
Unlike long snouted dogs, pugs can more easily focus on what’s in front of them. That’s because their eyes are structured differently and have more retinal ganglion cells – those responsible for processing visuals in the center of their visual fields.
On a negative note, pugs are prone to eye problems due to the structure of their face. In some cases, their peepers can even pop out – literally.
Boston Terrier
Another small dog with bulging eyes: the boston terrier, a non-sporting dog breed that’s been around since the 1800s. Small and compact with erect ears and beautiful big eyes, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this dog breed. And if any dog breed were to win an award for the biggest eyes, it would have to be this one.
A Boston terrier named Bruschi is a Guinness world record holder for having the largest eyes in the world. Measuring 28mm in diameter, Bruschi’s eyes are double the size of most dog breeds.
So, why do they have such large eyes? According to history, terriers were bred to herd and hunt, and they needed good eyes to do the job. Besides serving a practical function, many people are besotted with boston terrier eyes, deeming them part of their quirkiness.
If you’re looking for a cute, twinkle-eyed friend to light up your days, you should definitely consider adopting a boston terrier. The two of you will be besties for life! And he’ll keep an eye on you to make sure you’re safe at all times!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
One stare is all it takes to fall forever in love with a King Charles Spaniel. With their big, soppy eyes, playful personality, and extremely calm temperament, it’s no surprise they’re one of the most popular pet breeds. There’s just something about this elegant dog breed that makes them so enduring and loveable. And those eyes…big, beautiful, and soulful, it’s easy to feel a strong connection with this loveable dog breed. Plus, they’re a great family pet.
A spaniel’s eyes are practically a breed hallmark. Warm, dark, and under-eye cushioning create a melting look which contributes to their heart-warming expression.
Bulldog
They might look tough, bull bulldogs have the most incredible set of eyes.
Officially inducted into the American Kennel Club in 1886, bulldogs have been around for over 130 years. They’re by far one of the most popular dog breeds – even the likes of Lady Gaga and John Legend are proud bulldog owners.
Since bulldogs were originally bred for bull baiting, they were bred with wrinkles and an underbite. The wrinkles served the purpose of preventing blood from getting into its eyes during a battle while the underbite made it easier for bulldogs to grab onto what they were biting.
Thankfully, this vicious sport is a thing of the past and today, bulldogs are a popular pet with a larger than life personality, adorable big eyes for gazing, and a few comical quirks. If you’re a bulldog owner, you’ll know what I’m talking about.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of my favorite small dogs with bulging eyes. Cute, cartoon-like, and occasionally weepy, I fall in love everytime I see a Chihuahua. The fact that they have such tiny heads and bodies makes their eyes stand out even more. But their eyes aren’t the only noticeable thing on a chihuahua. They have pretty prominent voices, too.
I’m not going to lie, I’ve spent time with friends’ chihuahuas and it’s very eye-opening to see just how much noise can come from such a teeny tiny pooch. I think it’s largely a size thing. Since they’re typically smaller than everything and everyone else they come in contact with, chihuahuas feel the need to mark their presence. And sometimes, I believe the noise is made out of pure fear. When chihuahuas get scared, it seems the first thing they like to do is bark. It would definitely be convincing…until I saw the little dude or diva.
Chihuahuas are loyal companion dogs, and small enough to be carried around in a bag. Just be aware that they can get away with a lot of mischief thanks to those large and loveable baby eyes.
If you’re looking for a dog with bulging eyes and plenty of personality, the chihuahua ticks every box. Just remember, she expects to be spoiled! If she had hands, I swear she’d be stealing your credit card!
Pekingese
Pekingese are a loyal and affectionate bug eyed dog breed originally bred as a companion animal to ancient Chinese imperial families. Legend has it that Pekingese are lions shrunk by the Buddha, and were once revered as sacred in China.
It wasn’t until the 1860s that this dog breed entered the Western world. To this day, Pekingese are known and loved for their lion-like qualities of grace, dignity, and confidence. And I’m one of those admirers!
Compared to other dog breeds, Pekingese eyes don’t bulge that much nor are their eyes huge, but they do still pop out. Since their eyes sit behind their hair, it’s important as a Pekingese owner to regularly trim the hair in front of their eyes to allow him to see more clearly and prevent irritation caused by hairs in the eyes.
Japanese Chin
As small as they are, Japanese Chins make quite an impression with their large, wide-set eyes that look a lot similar to a Spaniel’s. Clinically known as strabismus, the Chin’s eyes appear to turn outward – and that’s just something they’re born with.
While Japanese Chins aren’t commonly seen in the U.S., they make wonderful pets with their charming personality and laid back temperament. They’re also highly intelligent and extremely loyal. Basically everything you want in a furry friend!
It’s hard to find out why Japanese Chins have such large eyes, but it could purely be for sake of appearance since this dog is more a toy breed bred for the purpose of entertaining their guardians.
Lhasa Apso
An ancient dog breed with bulging eyes, Lhasa Apsos are super cute, loveable dogs that make fantastic pets. Even many celebrities have owned them over the past two centuries, including Liberace, Elizabeth Taylor, Ellen DeGeneres, and Gwen Stefani.
The Lhasa Apso is an adorable lap dog that loves cuddles, belly rubs, and basically lots of attention. Considered sacred in their country of origin, that probably explains why Apsos expect a lot of pampering.
Originating in Tibet, this Lhasa Apso has existed since at least the year 800 A.D., making it one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. For centuries, these dogs lived in isolation with Tibetan Buddhists, and were considered a sacred part of the reincarnation process.
The average lifespan of a Lhasa Apso is approximately 12-15 years old, although some can live beyond 20.
Shih Tzu
And the final bug eyed dog breed to make the list is the sweet and affectionate Shih Tzu. If you take the time to sweep the hair out of its eyes, you’ll see that there’s a huge pair of globes hiding back there – and they’re beautiful!
While “Shih Tzu” means little lion, there’s absolutely nothing fierce about this big-eyed dog breed. Bred to be companions, these adorable little dogs are friendly, happy, and extremely loving. You’ll definitely enjoy having a pet Shih Tzu. Just be aware that while they make wonderful family pets, make sure your children keep their fingers away from his eyes, as they can easily become damaged.
As much as we love their big, bold eyes, Shih Tzus are prone to eye problems, so you’ll need to get them checked regularly and take the appropriate care needed to keep his eyes strong and healthy.
Frenchie (French Bulldog)
Who could not love the site of a Frenchie?
Although they look a little silly, they are ridiculously cute. Their small stumpy legs, squashed noses and springy alert ears, could send the coldest of hearts swooning.
An interesting fact about the Frenchie is that they actually have trouble…mating. This is down to their “unusual” body proportions. Males have a hard time trying to stimulate the females so artificial insemination is a common practice to help Frenchies reproduce.
A stand out characteristic is also their eyes. They have beautiful bulbous eyes that do make you wanna call them bugster.
Apparently they also have their fair share of eye problems. For example, cherry eye is a common eye problem among Frenchies. Cherry eye can be described as when their third eyelid becomes inflamed which can show up as red bump on the side of their eye(s).
Also once again due to their squashed noses, their eyes are more prone to being knocked, injured or gazed.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound has a skinny frame, long snout, and slender head which makes their eyes look all the more protruding. A simple google search “Funny Italian greyhound” pics will have you laughing in hysteria.
Italian greyhounds simply have such meme-friendly faces. Their eyes make them look shocked and soppy all at the same time. Its extra rewarding when you imagine if they had high pitch human voices.
