Newborn puppies are born with their eyes closed, spending the first few days to weeks of life exploring their world through feel, smell and the aid of their mother. A puppy’s eyes typically open sometime during the second or third week of life, though it takes a little time before a puppy can clearly see the world around him.
Eyes Wide Open
Eyes begin opening as early as seven days after birth and can take up to twice that long. If the eyes have not opened by the 14th day, VCA Animal Hospitals recommend having the puppy seen by a veterinarian. Once the eyes are open, it still takes time for focus and clarity of vision to develop. At this time, the eyes are very sensitive to light and can suffer damage if light is too bright. During the first week after the eyes open, protect your newborn puppies from bright lights. Well-developed vision occurs around 1 month of age.
References
Writer Bio
Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.