Two main genes influence eye color in Siberian Huskies:
* OCA2 gene: This gene is responsible for producing the protein P protein, which is involved in melanin production. Different variations of this gene can lead to different levels of melanin production, impacting eye color.
* TYR gene: This gene controls the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is crucial in the melanin production process. Variations in this gene can also affect melanin levels and eye color.
How these genes interact:
* Blue eyes: Siberian Huskies with two recessive alleles for the OCA2 gene produce very little melanin, resulting in blue eyes.
* Brown eyes: Huskies with at least one dominant allele for the OCA2 gene produce more melanin, leading to brown eyes.
* Parti-colored eyes: Huskies can have one brown eye and one blue eye, a condition known as heterochromia. This is usually due to a combination of different alleles for the OCA2 and TYR genes.
Other factors:
* Coat color: While not directly linked, a husky's coat color can sometimes give clues to their eye color. For example, a husky with a white coat is more likely to have blue eyes.
* Age: Husky puppies can be born with blue eyes that later change to brown as they mature.
Important note: Eye color genetics in dogs is complex and not entirely understood. There might be other genes involved that haven't been fully identified yet.
Ultimately, a Siberian Husky's eye color is determined by the specific combination of genes they inherit from their parents.