How to Take Care a Deaf Dog


As with people, many dogs suffer some degree of hearing loss. It is important for the guardians of canines to be able to detect signs which may indicate a hearing loss problem. When such a situation has been identified, it is important for the animal’s guardians to ensure that their four-legged family member receives veterinary care. It is also important for people who live with deaf or hearing impaired dogs to learn how to communicate with, and care for, their companions so that they can continue leading normal and comfortable lives.

There are two types of deafness – acquired and congenital. Congenital deafness occurs due to a defective gene which results in a malformation or non-functional ear. Acquired deafness occurs for any number of reasons. Some of the causes of hearing loss include: excessive amounts of wax, dirt, hair or other material plugging the ear canal; inflammation or swelling of the ear canal; infections of the middle or internal ear; a torn or ruptured ear drum; loud noise; head trauma; ear mites; certain drugs; old age.

There are many things you need to consider in order to keep a deaf dog safe. They should always be kept on a leash when not in the house or contained yard, as you cannot call your dog to come back if a situation arises or a car comes down the street to fast. Your deaf dog may have a harder time finding its way back to you if it is out of eyesight and in a strange place (the woods, for example). Deaf dogs may be more sensitive to other things, like rumbling of thunder or vibrations, but there is little or no opportunity to receive a warning that is not in direct line of sight. That being said, often deaf dogs have to be fed separately from other dogs in the home, or should be made aware that the other pet is approaching. Deaf dogs, have, on occasion, bitten an unsuspecting person or dog when startled from behind or out of a deep sleep. Keep vulnerability to a minimum and you should have no problem.

All in all, you will make accommodations for whatever pet you have in your home. Deafness, in the grand scheme of things, does not hinder your pet’s livelihood if you can make yourself visible to them. It is really pretty simple to deal with but not for the impatient or inconsistent person. Once you have taught your pet all of the signals it needs to be lively and healthy curl up with your pet and enjoy the new bond you have formed. It is one you will always cherish.

Filed Under: Pets & Animals

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About the Author: Fred Goodson has a passion for pets and animals. He has 4 dogs and is planning to have another one. He is also a blogger who writes about pets and animals. Currently, he is living in New Jersey.

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