Signs of Deafness in Dogs
Many dogs experience some level of hearing loss during their lifetime. Have you ever wondered if your dog was having trouble hearing or understanding what you were saying to them? Identifying the signs of deafness in dogs will help you understand each other better.
Defining Deafness
To be deaf means that one has completely or partially lost the ability to hear. The hearing loss may be permanent or temporary and may involve both ears or only one. The cause of temporary deafness is usually a waxy buildup in the ear canal. When a dog becomes permanently deaf, it may be caused by a number of different reasons. An untreated ear infection or injury may be the culprit. Old age, birth defects and tumors may also cause hearing loss in dogs.
Symptoms of Deafness in Dogs
Pay attention to the following signs and symptoms to help you identify that your dog may have hearing loss:
- They aren’t as obedient or attentive as they once were
- Loud sounds such as the doorbell or vacuum don’t seem to bother them at all
- They don’t respond when you call their name
- They ignore verbal commands
- It is hard to wake them up
- They have become rather inactive
- They are barking too much
- They shake or tilt their head
Genetic Link to Deafness in Dogs
Some breeds are more prone to becoming deaf than others. These breeds include Australian shepherds, Jack Russell Terriers, English Setters and Dalmatians. These breeds may develop early onset deafness, which is unfortunately irreversible in most cases.
There is also a connection between a dog’s coat color and deafness. Dogs who have white or merle coats have a higher risk of developing congenital deafness.
Deafness and Old Age
Around 13 years old, a dog may develop what is known as senile deafness. During this time, a dog may lose some but not all of its hearing, permanently.
Other dogs experience temporary deafness caused by a wax buildup in their ears. Thankfully, with treatment, this condition is completely reversible.
Knowing for Certain if Your Dog is Deaf
Though you can look for signs that your dog may be deaf, the only way to really know is to take him to the veterinarian. After your dog’s ears are checked for any irregularities, your vet will give your dog a hearing test.
Living with a Deaf Dog
Dogs who become deaf seem to adapt to it a lot easier than you might expect. It is the dog owner who might have a harder time with adjusting to it. Here are some modifications that should be made in order to make your deaf dog’s life more comfortable.
- Keep in mind that your deaf dog cannot hear traffic or other possible dangers. Because of this, your dog should not be let outside of your fenced yard without you.
- Consider using hand signals to train your deaf dog, as learning visually is easier for them.
- Find new ways to get your dog to look up at you. One way is to use a flashlight to get their attention. Follow this with a visual command.
- Make your dog aware of where you are. Your deaf dog might become nervous if it looks around and can’t find you. Gently tapping your dog on the back when you enter or exit your home will make them feel more at ease.
- Approach your deaf dog carefully, so that you don’t scare them, particularly if they are sleeping. To remedy this, extend your hand out to their nose and let them smell you first, instead of petting them awake or calling their name,
- Consider attaching a bell to your dog’s collar to aid you in locating them if they should become lost.