Deaf dog: Tips on Taking Care of them

Having a deaf dog can be completely different than a dog with all of their senses intact. Here are some useful tips to achieve a full coexistence by adapting to the conditions of your pet.

1. Train the dog with hand signals, this will be of great help when he wants to communicate.
2. Monitor their activity, this is especially for the safety of the dog. Not being able to hear can be a scary thing, especially if you are not used to it. Make sure to keep an eye on them, especially when they’re outside.
3. Let your dog know where you are. This will keep you relaxed and make it easier for you to get their attention if necessary.
4. “I am deaf” necklace. If your dog goes out, it can be a bit more difficult when you try to call them at home. In case someone finds them, it is essential to inform on the necklace about their hearing problems.
5. Do not sneak up on them, you should let them know when you are leaving and when you return home, try not to scare them. You will save them a lot of frights.

It is important to be patient with dogs. Especially if they are a deaf dog. Remember that they are going through something difficult and unfamiliar. It may take a little getting used to but they will learn.

How to know if you have a deaf dog?

Your pet can easily compensate for their hearing loss by relying more on their other senses. A deaf dog will experience life first with their sense of smell, followed by sight, and then hearing.  This can make their hearing loss even more difficult to detect. Here are some signs to look for:

• A change in the dog’s obedience or response to common commands no longer responds when called.
• Does not react to the sound of squeaky toys, bells, or other common noises.
• They often have a hard time waking up and reacts aggressively when they do.
• Easily startled and barks excessively for no reason.

Observing and helping your dog through the transition from hearing loss is not easy and will take some getting used to. Before adopting a dog, consider what it might be more difficult to care for when it is older and ask yourself if you will have enough time to care for it.