
18/09/2025
Newborn puppies are born blind and deaf, a fact that often surprises people. This is because dogs are altricial mammals, meaning they arrive in the world in a very undeveloped state. At birth, their eyes and ears are completely closed, leaving them dependent on their mother’s warmth, scent, and touch to navigate their surroundings. According to The Spruce Pets, this early stage is crucial for neurological and physical development, and puppies rely heavily on instinct and maternal care.
Around 10 to 16 days after birth, most puppies begin to open their eyes and ears. However, their vision is initially blurry and their hearing is still developing. According to Puppy In Training, by the third week, puppies typically start to respond to sounds and movement, and their senses become more reliable. This is also when they begin to walk, explore, and interact more actively with their littermates and environment.
The delayed development of sight and hearing helps protect their fragile nervous systems during the earliest days of life. It’s a natural part of their growth, and gentle handling during this time can support healthy socialization.