Are Dogs Colorblind? The Truth, the Myth, and What Your Cavapoo Sees

You know that moment when your dog stares at a bright red ball like it just vanished into thin air? You wave it in front of them. You roll it across the room. Nothing. Then suddenly, zoom! They chase it like it owes them money.

That right there might have you wondering: Are dogs colorblind?

It’s a great question and one that’s surprisingly misunderstood. Here at Jones Farm Puppies, we’re not just in the business of raising happy, healthy Cavapoos (though we’re pretty proud of that). We also love helping puppy parents better understand their furry friends, and vision is one of those things that make dogs, well… delightfully different from us.

So let’s dive into the science, bust a few myths, and have a little fun exploring how your dog sees the world and why that missing red ball isn’t a sign they need glasses.

So, Are Dogs Colorblind?

Short answer: Yes… But not in the way you might think.

When people say “colorblind,” they often imagine a dog seeing the world in gloomy shades of gray, like a 1950s television. But that’s not quite right. Dogs do see color, just not as vividly or as broadly as humans do. While we have three types of color receptors in our eyes (called cones) that let us see a whole rainbow of red, blue, and green, dogs only have two cones: blue and yellow.

This means their world is not black and white, but it is kind of like a muted Instagram filter.

What Colors Can Dogs See?

Imagine turning down the color saturation on a photo. That’s how a dog’s vision might look. Here’s a quick breakdown of how colors translate in their eyes:

• Blue and yellow? Crystal clear.
• Green and red? Not so much.

To a dog, red likely appears as dark brown or gray. Green? That blends into beige or a muddy yellow.

So when you toss that shiny red ball into green grass, your pup’s not being dramatic; they just literally can’t see it very well. It’s basically camouflage.

(Note to self: Buy more blue toys.)

Do Dogs Have Night Vision?

They sure do, and it’s pretty impressive.

Dogs have a special part in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum, which acts like a mirror behind the retina, reflecting light and improving vision in low-light conditions. It’s the reason their eyes glow in the dark like little aliens.

So, while your Cavapoo might not see the complete color wheel, they’ve got you beat on late-night snack runs.

Why It Matters (Even If They Don’t Seem to Care)

Understanding how dogs perceive the world helps you interact with them more effectively, especially when it comes to training, selecting toys, and engaging in outdoor play. It’s not just about knowing their vision; it’s about using that knowledge to enhance your relationship with your furry friend.

That orange frisbee you love? It might vanish into the fall leaves for your pup. Switching to a blue or yellow toy can make fetch more fun and less frustrating.

And if you’re ever wondering why your Cavapoo seems uninterested in your colorful outfit, it’s probably not a fashion critique: they see you in shades of oatmeal.

Can Dogs See TV?

Believe it or not, yes, especially modern TVs with higher frame rates.

While old-school TVs flickered too slowly for dogs to perceive them as fluid motion, today’s screens move quickly enough for dogs to notice. And with color perception tuned to blues and yellows, don’t be surprised if your Cavapoo locks in on a wildlife documentary like it’s The Real Housewives of Squirrel City.

Just don’t expect them to understand plot twists.

What Your Cavapoo Really Sees

Cavapoos, with their expressive eyes and playful nature, are incredibly tuned into their surroundings, even if their color palette is limited.

They don’t rely on sight alone. Dogs are experts at reading motion, scent, and energy. Your tone of voice and body language mean more than the color of your shirt or the toys you offer. Your dog understands you in their unique way.

So even though your pup can’t see red roses, they definitely feel your love.

Why Ethical Breeding Still Matters—Even When Talking About Color

At Jones Farm Puppies, we believe every part of a puppy’s development matters, from vision and temperament to emotional well-being and socialization.

By raising our Cavapoo puppies in a clean, enriched, and loving environment, we ensure they grow into confident, curious dogs who can navigate their world, even if it’s painted in shades of blue and beige.

Whether they’re learning to sit, exploring the backyard, or just curled up by your side, our puppies are prepared for a life filled with connection, curiosity, and joy.

And hey, they don’t need to see every color to love every moment with you.

Fun Fact: Dogs Don’t Judge Your Home Decor

This might be the best news of all. Your Cavapoo doesn’t care if your couch clashes with the rug. They won’t critique your outfit. And they’ll never complain that your walls are the wrong shade of sage green.

They’re too busy loving your voice, your touch, and the time you spend together.

So, are dogs colorblind? In a way, yes, but that doesn’t matter to your pup. Dogs may be color-limited, but they’re love-unlimited.

Final Thoughts: Are Dogs Colorblind?

Yes, but they’re not missing out.

While dogs don’t see the world the same way we do, their vision is perfectly tuned to the things that matter most to them: movement, connection, and presence. They don’t need every color under the sun to recognize you, love you or zoom across the yard at the sight of a blue squeaky toy.

So the next time someone asks, “Are dogs colorblind?” you’ll know the honest answer: yes, kind of, but it doesn’t stop them from living life in full emotional color.

FAQ: Are Dogs Colorblind?

Are dogs completely colorblind?
No, dogs aren’t completely colorblind. They see some colors, mainly shades of blue and yellow, but struggle to distinguish between red and green.

Can dogs see in the dark?
Yes! Dogs have better night vision than humans thanks to a structure called the tapetum lucidum, which reflects light and improves low-light vision.

What color toys should I buy for my dog?
Stick to blue or yellow toys! These colors are easiest for dogs to see, especially when playing outside.

Why does my dog ignore red toys?
Red appears dull or dark to dogs, often blending into the background, especially in green grass or on hardwood floors.

Can dogs watch TV?
Yes! Modern TVs have refresh rates fast enough for dogs to see movement clearly. Many dogs enjoy watching shows with animals, motion, or familiar sounds.

Do Cavapoos see differently than other breeds?
All dogs, including Cavapoos, share similar color perception and night vision capabilities. However, individual sight may vary slightly based on genetics and health.