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    When Do Puppies Open Their Eyes

    When Do Puppies Open Their Eyes

    The birth of puppies is such a wholesome event that it could bring tears of joy to your eyes. It is possible that your emotions of joy are interrupted with feelings of concern for the little pups when you notice that their eyes are still closed after birth. But you need not fret, this is absolutely normal. In fact, it takes some time for newborn puppies to actually be able to open their eyes.

    When do newborn puppies open their eyes?

    Newborn puppies typically open their eyes approximately 1 to 8 weeks after birth. Unlike human beings, whose eyelids are open right from birth, puppies are born before they are fully developed. Hence, the eyes of these little fur babies are tightly shut at birth. During their initial days, puppies are completely dependent on their mothers for all their needs, and only focus on breathing and nursing for themselves. In due course of time, they gradually open their eyes and begin to explore the world on their own.

    What can a puppy see after opening its eyes?

    During the first two weeks, puppies tend to have blue eyes and should be shielded from bright lights. Even if they blink when exposed to bright light, they shut their eyes soon after. Early on, their vision is blurry, allowing them to see only shapes and colours vaguely. Their cloudy vision gradually begins to clear. Between three to seven weeks, puppies' vision improves, allowing them to see more details. However, they can still be disturbed by bright lights, so it’s wise to keep the curtains drawn or dim the lights for their benefit. 

    By the eighth week, a puppy's eyes begin to show their adult colouration, and their vision is fully developed. At this stage, puppies are not able to support their body weight fully and tend to crawl on their bellies. Slowly, they start to socialise with other puppies and human beings. This period is ideal for helping them build social skills – the more people you introduce them to, the more social, outgoing, and friendly they will become. However, do ensure that the people interacting with your pup are gentle with them.

    What to do if your puppy is not opening its eyes?

    If your puppy takes more than two weeks to open its eyes, then you need to take it to a vet. Perhaps the puppy is injured or suffers from an eye infection or even a congenital defect. Make sure that you keep the puppy’s eye region clean to avoid infections. An eye infection, if severe, could have detrimental effects. Bear in mind that you do not touch the puppy’s eyes or try to open them on your own. It is imperative, that you do not force the puppy’s eye to open as it may physically harm the little one.

    Your puppy’s eye health is a large part of its overall well-being. And since a dog is not fully developed at the time of birth, you need to take extra care in the beginning. So, be patient and wait for your pooch to open its eyes; however, if it takes too long, consult a vet.

    Frequently asked questions

    At what age do puppies open their eyes?

    Puppies open their eyes between 1 and 8 weeks after birth, so do not open their eyes forcefully.

    What to expect after a puppy opens their eyes?

    What if my puppy's eyes are not open at 14 days?

    What if my puppy’s eyes appear red or swollen when they open?

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