It’s a treat to meet a newborn puppy. Soft, fragile, and very much still growing even after their birth. Puppies eyes are one of the first things you may notice – because they are closed! Puppies are born with their eyes closed, and will stay that way for a specific amount of time. Why not just be born with the ability to see? Let’s take a look at what we know about puppy development, and the crucial reasons why it takes them a little bit of time to grow into your wide eyed best friend.
How Long Does It Take For Puppies Eyes To Open
Puppies are born with their eyes closed, and they do not open immediately. You may wonder what the hold up is! Puppy eyes open between 5 – 14 days after they are born, and for an important reason. Their optic nerve continues to develop after birth. When ready, a puppy will begin to open their eyes and take in the world but their optic nerve will continue to develop for 8 weeks in order to increase the clarity of vision. Until then, they will depend their sense of smell, hearing, and touch to explore their world. Check out the most popular books on puppy development and raising a puppy below!
- Raising Your First Puppy by Gabby Hart
- Paws for a Moment: Mindful Bonding Between You and Your Dog by Neal Gyles
- The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete
- Puppy’s First Steps by Faculty of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University
What Can Puppies See?
Puppies can not see clearly when they first open their eyes. They can make out blurry objects, and their eyes may be sensitive to bright lights. Over the first 8 weeks after birth, a puppy’s optic nerve will continue to develop and gradually they will be able to make out objects more clearly.
Puppies (and dogs) can see color too! They have a limited range of colors compared to humans, but yes! They can see a range of colors. What about seeing in the dark? Puppies can do that too, and effectively. Rods and cones are photoreceptor cells in the retina of the eye. Rods are sensitive to low light, and contrast with light (black/white/grey tones) while cones are responsible for color. Puppies have more rods than cones, which gives them strong night vision! They are also born experts at detecting movement. A puppy will be able to use their hunting instincts to find food and toys with ease.
Watching a puppy grow after birth is an incredibly exciting experience! Seeing them learn about their world, and develop their senses, can feel as rewarding to you as it does to them. Patience, gentleness, and encouragement is what every puppy needs during this crucial time of development. Enjoy it – they grow up so fast!
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