Why hasn't my puppy opened his eyes yet? He's already a couple of weeks old and I'm worried something might be wrong.

My puppy is already a couple of weeks old, and his eyes still haven't opened. I was expecting to see him looking around by now, but they remain shut. Is this typical for puppies, or is it possible something might be wrong with his development?

Answer

It is typical for puppies to open their eyes between one to two weeks after birth, but some puppies may take a bit longer. It is still within normal limits if your puppy's eyes haven't opened yet after a couple of weeks.

  • Puppies generally open their eyes between 10 to 14 days old.
  • A few extra days can be normal, depending on the breed and individual development.
  • If eyes haven't opened by three weeks, a vet check is recommended.

Puppies are born with their eyes closed as part of their natural development process. Typically, you'll see them start to open their eyes around 10 to 14 days of age. However, some puppies might be a bit slower. This is usually not a cause for concern. If your puppy's eyes remain closed at three weeks old, it's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential issues. Being mindful and observing other developmental milestones can provide additional reassurance.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How soon should my puppy's eyes be fully open?

    Most puppies' eyes will be fully open and beginning to focus by around two weeks of age, but some may take a bit longer.

  • What should I do if my puppy's eyes aren't open by two weeks?

    It's often normal, but you can gently wipe the eye area with a moist cloth. If their eyes remain closed at three weeks, consult with a veterinarian.

  • Can I help my puppy open their eyes?

    It's best not to force their eyes open. Let their natural development occur at its pace; consult a vet if you have concerns.

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