Deaf dogs may bark less than other dogs, and the voice may sound odd. They frequently develop behavior problems because of their inability to understand human communication, and because they may be easily startled or frightened by the unexpected.
Dogs can have anxiety just like people and deaf dogs may be more anxious than most, especially if their hearing loss is new. Sensory deprivation is a well-known cause of canine anxiety.
Although they require a shift in technique, they aren't much more of a commitment than any other dog. You need to teach them basic obedience, just as you would with a dog who can hear, and with a few other lessons like focus and startle resistance, your deaf dog can understand and obey you with ease.
In fact, a dog without hearing can be even more loving, as he has learned to rely on his other senses. He will stick closer to you so that he can see your movements and snuggle up close so that he can feel your closeness. Never let deafness in your dog discourage you.
Loss of hearing or deafness in dogs, much as in humans, can result in isolation and loneliness as well as problems with interactions. However, when you recognize, acknowledge and address hearing loss, it doesn't have to get in the way.
At the end of the day, it's important to remember that hearing loss does not have to hinder your pup's quality of life. As Webb puts it: "Deaf dogs can live happy, healthy, long lives and make great companions.
It's important to remember that deaf dogs sleep very deeply, so always wake them gently to avoid startling them.
Congenital deafness has been found in over 80 different breeds, but it may be found in any breed. Those dogs with spots, dapples, or merle coats or those with white skin or fur are predisposed to congenital deafness. The most commonly affected breed is the Dalmatian, of which there are almost 30% that are deaf.
Dog Hearing Loss: Causes and Symptoms
As your dog loses his hearing, you might find him “ignoring” your cues, such as not sitting when asked or failing to come when you call him. Or he may seem confused by his surroundings or by your requests.
To keep your deaf dog safe around other animals, you'll need to establish a “heads-up” prompt to alert your dog when other dogs are approaching. You should also watch each dog's body language for signs of discomfort, fear or aggression.
Loss of hearing, cognitive dysfunction, central nervous system disorders and medical conditions can all contribute to your dog's excessive vocalization. He might whine or howl if he feels the urge to eliminate more, if he's overeating and wants you to give him more food, or if he's in pain.
Deaf dogs are just as capable and intelligent as dogs that can hear. They just need a little extra time and patience. You will have to learn and teach your fur-baby the different hand signals. And just like humans that are deaf, their other senses are more sensitive.
Their hearing capabilities are slightly different to ours; our hearing frequency being 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz whilst a dog's is 40 Hz to 60,000 Hz. This means that they can hear sounds at a higher pitch, a prime example being a dog whistle; undetectable to humans but excruciatingly clear for dogs.
Owning a deaf dog is a very rewarding and unique experience.
Since deaf dogs rely so much on their other senses, they are extremely in tune with their owners. Deaf dogs rely on their owners to communicate with them via body language, hand signals, and even facial expressions!
Cochleosaccular is the most common cause of deafness and is associated with coat color patterns. It is usually seen in dogs with the piebald color genes or merle color gene. It can cause deafness in either one or both ears and is seen more in association with blue eyes and a white coat.
Dogs that carry the piebald gene (affects the distribution and amount of white color) are often affected by deafness. Piebaldism is the result of the absence of melanocytes, the cells that create the pigment melanin.
Training a deaf dog doesn't necessarily require any more patience and time than training a hearing dog. They are often even more focused as they can't hear distracting noises! Replace your audible commands with hand signals and visual cues, and they will pick it up quickly.
Senile deafness develops gradually, typically occurring at about 13 years of age. Many older dogs lose their hearing but never become completely deaf; however, the loss that has already occurred is permanent. Temporary deafness is often the result of buildup within the ear canals.
Some deaf dogs may become anxious if they find their owner is suddenly gone. Inform your dog when you leave or enter the house by tapping him gently on the back. Approach carefully. Many deaf dogs are easily startled, especially when sleeping.
Separation Anxiety is when deaf dogs are left alone unattended and they become destructive. If you leave your deaf dog alone and your deaf dog proceeds to urinate, defecate, barks non-stop, digs up floors and rugs, chews up furniture, or tries to escape his crate, then there is a strong possibility your dog has SA.
Separation Anxiety – Deaf dogs may have separation issues because they cannot hear. For example, if you leave a dog in a crate she or he may panic about being alone because it cannot hear activity in the next room.
Deaf dogs can learn many different signs, and all of my dogs also learn a sign for their names. Teaching a name sign is a great way to let your dog know you want to engage with him. If you have multiple dogs in your home, using name signs can be very handy so the dogs know which dog you are referring to.