Deafness in Dogs

Deafness in a dog is NOT a death sentence.

Deafness in dogs can be from birth (and is generally noticable around 6-8 weeks of age) OR it can happen from old age OR middle ear infection.

There is a BAER hearing test that can establish how much or little your dog can actually hear, but you will have to call around to find a veterinary clinic that can provide such a service.

Deaf dogs are quite often ‘written off’ however only one of the five senses are missing and dogs can accommodate for this loss much better than you might imagine... Deaf dogs has a heightened sense of smell, feel and eager eyes. In fact a deaf dog can understand, interact and learn just as well as their hearing companions with a little understanding, compassion, time and imagination from their owner.

Deaf dog training can be as easy and rewarding as any dog training, if not more so because you have their full focus and they will be thrilled to finally have communication and fun instructions. They are quite capable of learning all the behaviours that a hearing dog can, including recall.

There is a lot of information on the internet on how to train your deaf dog with body language and handsignals. But in truth you can make up your own, as long as you keep it consistent so your pup can connect it with the instruction. Always reward immediately when they do what you want them to do (with a treat or a thumbs-up) so they know you are pleased with them. Once they understand (connect the sign with the behaviour) they will respond favourably.

I also like to still talk when I use hand signals as it may reinforce it for the dog as they can sense your vibration and emotional state too.

I commend those who give a deaf dog a chance at a normal life. I never thought it be something we could live with but it’s not that hard. In fact it is rewarding!