Curious about when those tiny Dachshund puppies first open their eyes to the world? Dive into the adorable journey with Nexus-pets and discover the magical moment when those little button eyes begin to peek out, unveiling a whole new chapter of puppyhood!
Neonatal Period (Birth to 2 Weeks)
During the first two weeks after birth, Dachshund puppies are blind and deaf. They rely completely on their mother for warmth, food, and cleaning. At this stage, their senses are very limited — they mainly use their smell and touch to find their way. Their eyes and ears stay closed during this time.
Puppies use simple movements like crawling and suckling to feed. The mother helps a lot by licking them to keep them clean and to help them go to the bathroom. She also keeps the area warm because the puppies cannot control their own body temperature yet.
Eye Opening Timeline for Dachshund Puppies
Dachshund puppies typically begin to open their eyes at around two weeks of age. This process is gradual—puppy eyes may open partially at first and then fully open over the course of several days. During this early period, their vision is still developing and will continue to improve steadily in the weeks that follow.
Around the same time their eyes start to open, the puppies’ ear canals begin to open as well. This marks the beginning of their ability to hear, allowing them to start processing sounds from their environment for the first time. The opening of both eyes and ears signals a crucial developmental stage, as puppies shift from relying primarily on touch and smell to experiencing the world through multiple senses.
What Happens When Puppies’ Eyes Open
When Dachshund puppies open their eyes, they experience a significant boost in their awareness of the world around them. This newfound ability to see marks the beginning of improved coordination, as their visual input helps them better navigate their environment. With increasing awareness, puppies become more curious and start actively exploring their surroundings beyond simply relying on smell and touch.
At this stage, social behaviors begin to develop more clearly. Puppies start interacting more with their littermates, learning important communication skills and boundaries through play and gentle physical contact. This period sets the foundation for their social development as they become more engaged with both their siblings and their environment.
Continued Development After Eye Opening
Following the opening of their eyes, puppies typically begin to walk with better balance and coordination by around three weeks of age. Their movements transition from tentative, wobbly steps to more confident exploration.
Play behavior emerges strongly during this time, serving as a critical part of their learning process. Through play, puppies practice motor skills, social interactions, and problem-solving.
Simultaneously, their sensory development continues to refine. Hearing improves as ear canals open, allowing them to respond to sounds. Their sense of smell also sharpens, creating a richer sensory experience that supports learning and adaptation.
How to Care for Dachshund Puppies During Eye Opening
When Dachshund puppies begin to open their eyes—usually around two weeks old—it is a crucial period in their early development that requires gentle care and attention. At this stage, puppies are still delicate and adjusting to a rapidly changing world.
Gentle Handling and Stimulation
It’s important to handle the puppies with care to encourage their neurological development without causing stress. Light, gentle touches and brief periods of interaction help stimulate their senses and aid in coordination as their vision and awareness improve. Avoid overstimulation by keeping interactions calm and brief, allowing puppies to explore their surroundings gradually at their own pace.
Warmth and Cleanliness
Puppies are still unable to fully regulate their body temperature during eye opening, so maintaining a warm and clean environment is essential. Their bedding should be soft, dry, and kept free from drafts or sudden temperature changes. Regular cleaning ensures a hygienic space, preventing infections as their immune systems are still developing.
Mother’s Presence and Nutrition
The mother dog remains a vital source of comfort, warmth, and nutrition during this stage. Ensure she is well-fed with a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet to support milk production and her own health. Her presence not only provides physical care but also emotional security, which helps puppies feel safe and encourages social bonding. Avoid separating puppies from their mother during this sensitive time to support their growth and social development.
By providing these essentials—gentle handling, a warm and clean environment, and attentive maternal care—you’ll help your Dachshund puppies transition smoothly through this important milestone in their early life.
You may be interested in:
- The Top 8 Rarest and Most Stunning Dachshund Colors
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- Dachshund for Sale
As your Dachshund puppy’s eyes open, they are taking a monumental step toward independence. This new perspective allows them to explore their surroundings and interact with their siblings and mother. As their senses continue to develop, they’ll soon be ready to explore the world with you. Be patient and give them plenty of love, and you’ll have a happy, healthy companion for years to come.
