Help! My Puppy Needs Eye Protection from the Sun! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“We have a 6-week-old dachshund puppy, Onyx, who has a blown pupil that needs to be protected when going out in the sun. Our vet recommends starting with doggles with a block from the sun. Unfortunately, we can’t find anything small enough to start that training. Any suggestions? We are desperate so he can go outside as soon as he has his shots.“ – Victoria
Quick Info about Onyx
Hi Victoria,
Protecting Onyx’s sensitive eye at such a young age is very important, and your veterinarian is right that shielding him from direct sunlight will help prevent discomfort and further damage. Commercial goggles designed for dogs, such as RexSpecs, are often recommended by veterinary ophthalmologists because they block harmful UV light. However, for a six-week-old dachshund puppy, even the smallest sizes may not fit securely yet, which makes training and gradual acclimation the most realistic first step. Think of it like teaching a child to wear glasses; the process works best when started gently and paired with positive experiences.
In the meantime, limiting outdoor exposure to shaded areas and keeping walks short during bright daylight can reduce the strain on his eyes until he is large enough to wear a proper pair. You can begin introducing the idea of headgear indoors using positive reinforcement, first with soft fabric straps or a loosely fitted band, so he learns to associate the sensation with rewards. Once he grows a little, transitioning to protective goggles will be smoother and safer. If you continue to struggle finding an appropriate fit, your veterinarian may also suggest a referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist who can guide you on custom options or additional protective strategies. I hope this helps!
– Dr. Paola