If you have a deaf dog, or one that you suspect is losing his or her hearing, then you may need to make a few changes to keep your dog well and maintain good communication. Most deaf dogs are highly adaptable to their hearing loss but do need some guidance, training, and special care. Here is more information on why dogs become deaf and what you can do to keep your dog safe and happy.
What Causes Deafness in Dogs?
Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to have a higher incidence of deafness or affected hearing than others. However, dogs can also become deaf from injury, illness, infection, and old age. In some cases, such as with ear infections, hearing loss will be only temporary. Once the blockage or swelling inside the ear resolves itself, the dog's hearing may improve.
What Are the Signs of Deafness in Dogs?
The main sign that your previously normal-hearing dog has lost his or her hearing is when there is a sudden change in behavior. For example, failing to come when called, when this has never been a problem before, could be a possible sign of deafness. You may also notice that your dog seems to startle easily. One way that you can check your dog's hearing is to clap or snap your fingers when your dog is not looking. Your dog should at least show some muscle movement around the ears when he or she notices the sound even if he or she doesn't turn around.
What Special Treatment do Deaf Dogs Need?
You will need to learn special visual cues to get your deaf dog's attention. A flashlight is a very useful way to signal your dog to look at you, for example. Use hand signals to train your dog like you would with voice commands. Deaf puppies, especially, may need special training to signal when they are biting too hard or playing too rough. Do not let your deaf dog run off-leash because he or she may not hear a car or other threat coming. Take caution with waking up your deaf dog so that you don't startle him or her.
With patience, good veterinary treatment, and training changes, your deaf dog will live a good quality life. Many dogs adapt so well to their deafness that many people wouldn't know that he or she has a hearing problem. If your dog is only recently showing signs of hearing problems, and he or she is not of a high-risk breed, then see your veterinarian right away. For more information, visit a website like http://www.murrellsinletvethospital.com.
Share9 December 2019
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