When Do Puppies’ Eyes Change Color? Average Age & Determining Factors

Puppies are adorable regardless of their breed or disposition. Some are needy and whiny, while others are independent and strong-willed. Some are dewy-eyed, while others are wide-eyed. No matter what they look like, puppies are incredibly entertaining and cute.

But as puppies age, several changes occur, including their eye color. Many new puppy owners ask the same questions: Do all puppies have blue eyes? Will my puppy’s eye color stay blue? The truth is that not all puppies have blue eyes and not all puppies that have blue eyes will continue to have blue eyes when they get older. Some pups experience changes in eye color, but what you see at six months is usually what you'll see into adulthood. Read on to learn more!

The New Puppy’s Eyes

When puppies are first born, their eyes are tightly closed and stay that way for about 2 weeks. During that time, they rely on their mother to make their way around their nest. They use smell and reflexes to figure out where to get their food and to find a spot to take a nap. Therefore, it is impossible to see the color of a puppy’s eyes during the first 2 to 3 weeks of their life.

The Seasoned Puppy’s Eyes

Once a puppy’s eyes open, they typically look blue. However, that is not always the case. Some puppies’ eyes look brown in the beginning. It depends on their breed, age, and the environment. At this time of life, a puppy’s eyes look glossy and hazy. They are not clear and focused like an adult dog’s eyes are. Therefore, it is tough to tell what a puppy’s eyes will look like once they reach adulthood.

When Do a Dog’s Eyes Change Color?

A puppy’s eye color changes, if it is going to change, by the time they reach about 1 month old. Their eyes can go from blue to gray to blue again, or they can change from blue to gray to brown over the course of a month or so. By the time your dog is about 6 months old, their eye color is likely set and will not change as they get older.

What Determines Dogs’ Eye Color?

Factors such as the amount of melanin that a dog has, the color of their fur, and their lineage can affect the eye color. The more melanin a dog has, the darker their eyes tend to be. Dogs may end up with blue, hazel, brown, gray, or amber eye colors. Some dogs end up with two different eye colors, which is the result of a health condition called heterochromia, which occurs in humans and dogs.

If you want more information on puppy development or are concerned about the health of your pet, you should contact your vet.

In Conclusion

Puppies are stunning no matter the color of their eyes. You can be sure that by the time your dog is about half a year old, they will have their permanent eye color. However, their eye color is not important. Personality, sociability, and loyalty are much bigger factors to focus on. Puppyhood is a time of bonding and camaraderie between the dog and the owner.

Related Reads:

• When Do Puppies Open Their Eyes? Average Age & Vision Development

• There’s a Bump on My Dog’s Eye: Should I Worry? (Vet Answer)

Featured Image Credit: Ezzolo, Shutterstock