Owning a Deaf Dog

By Bernie October 27, 2017

Many people are not aware that certain breeds can be prone to deafness. Those breeds include Dalmatians and English Setters. Some breeds like my Ginger, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are prone to congenital deafness. Ginger has lost her hearing which has been a result of the multiple P.S.O.M that she has had. Primary Secretory Otitis Media (PSOM), also known as “glue ear”, can result in hearing loss due to the mucus plug which PSOM produces in the dog’s inner ear. After her having multiple myringotomies there has been damaged done to her ear which has resulted in her complete loss of hearing.

My neighbor after losing two of his dogs decided to adopt a puppy. He adopted a 9 month old Australian Cattle Dog and named her Anna. Like Ginger, Anna is deaf but she was born that way. Deaf dogs make great pets and companions, the only difference is on how you train them.

Because they can’t hear they have to be taught visually. You will need to establish hand signals and other concrete methods to get your dog’s attention. But most importantly you will need to work on desensitizing your dog to startling. So whether you’re pet has lost their hearing or you’re adopting a deaf pet, these are some tips that you can utilize.

First thing as with any dog that you get they should always be microchipped. They should also wear a collar and tags that have their updated information and that is legible. Sometimes when tags get old the information may wear off. Indicate on the tag that the dog is deaf. They even sell Deaf Dog tags that you can attach to their tag ring. If anyone finds your dog they will have a better idea on how to handle the dog.

Communication: Most deaf dogs will rely on sign language. Some people use ASL, American Sign Language and others create their own signs. According to Rover, “Teaching a deaf dog is much the same as teaching a hearing dog, but the trainer reinforces hand signals instead of a spoken command. This video shows how a deaf dog parent (of three!) trains her dogs. The order of learning commands will be familiar, and you’ll see how they build on each other.” To view the video, click here

Interaction: Remember because your dog cannot hear they will startle easily. It’s important to make eye contact when trying to get their attention. Whenever you want to get their attention, you should tap them lightly. Try to always tap them on the same area of the body whether it be their back or shoulders. It’s important to get them used to receiving unexpected touches.

Attention: You can certainly get their attention by waiting for them to look at you and then use hand signals. You can also stomp on the floor to create a vibration. If it’s dark you can use a flashlight as well. Again light touches work as well.

If you do a search on line you will find a ton of tips on how to help your deaf dog. They even sell vibrating collars but those are a personal choice and should be discussed with your Vet.

Remember, deaf dogs are just as capable as hearing dogs. Don’t feel sorry for them, just provide them with the proper training and love and they will love you back for years to come!

Below are pictures of two deaf cuties, Ginger and Anna.