How to Know if Your Dog is Going Deaf: Signs & Breeds at Risk

Dogs have remarkable senses, including an acute ability to hear sounds from far away. However, their impressive adaptability can sometimes make it difficult for owners to realise when their beloved pet starts to lose their hearing.

Understanding Congenital Deafness in Dogs

Dalmatian puppies are one breed known to be predisposed to congenital deafness, a condition where puppies are born deaf and never experience hearing. Reputable breeders are attentive to such conditions and will identify if a puppy is deaf before rehoming. Typically, healthy puppies start responding to sounds around 10 days old, while deaf puppies do not.

Responsible breeding practices help minimise the risk, and if adopting a deaf puppy, owners should seek thorough guidance from the breeder for optimal care.

Recognising Acquired Deafness in Older Dogs

Acquired deafness can develop subtly over time, making it tricky for owners to notice initially. Sometimes dogs exhibit unusual behaviour, which may be mistaken for other issues rather than hearing loss. Understanding early signs is crucial for timely veterinary advice.

10 Signs Your Dog May Be Going Deaf

Spotting deafness early helps improve your dog's quality of life. Watch out for these signs:

• Puppies born deaf may be more aggressive towards their littermates.
• Your dog stops responding to favourite squeaky toys or sound cues.
• They do not react when you call them, whistle, clap your hands, or when household sounds like the doorbell or phone ring.
• Easily startled; may snap if woken suddenly while sleeping.
• Sleeping more than usual and reduced activity levels.
• Difficulty waking up.
• Increased or changed barking—either more frequent or different in sound.
• Appearing disorientated or confused in familiar environments.
• Shaking or tilting their head frequently, indicating discomfort or confusion.
• Sudden disobedience or lack of response to verbal commands.

Breeds Most at Risk for Deafness

Certain coat patterns like dappling, spotting, merle, and white hair increase the risk of congenital deafness. Over 50 breeds are known to be susceptible. Apart from Dalmatians, other commonly affected breeds include:

• Australian Heeler puppies
• Border Collie puppies
• Jack Russell puppies
• Dappled Dachshund
• Doberman puppies
• English Bulldog puppies
• Bull Terrier puppies
• Shetland Sheepdog puppies
• Old English Sheepdog puppies
• Miniature Poodle puppies
• Collie puppies
• Great Dane puppies
• German Shepherd puppies
• Scottish Terrier puppies
• Maltese puppies
• Schnauzer puppies
• Siberian Husky puppies
• Toy Poodle puppies
• West Highland White Terrier puppies

How to Help and Support a Deaf Dog

While veterinary treatments may not restore hearing, vets can help you manage the condition. Advice often includes avoiding startling your dog and teaching family members, especially children, how to safely interact with a deaf pet. Using visual cues and hand signals can replace verbal commands effectively.

Being patient and understanding your dog's new way of experiencing the world helps maintain a happy and fulfilling relationship.

Frequently Asked Question: What Are the Early Signs That a Dog Is Going Deaf?

Quick Answer: Early signs include ignoring verbal commands, not reacting to everyday household sounds, increased startle response, and changes in barking or behaviour.

Dogs with early hearing loss might stop responding when called, especially if not looking towards the sound source. They may not notice the doorbell, telephone ring, or other familiar noises. Often, they startle more easily when approached quietly. Their barking might become louder or more frequent as they can't hear themselves well. These signs warrant a vet visit for assessment and early management options.

Conclusion

Deafness in dogs can develop gradually or be present from birth. Recognising the subtle signs and understanding the breeds at greater risk enables owners to adapt care accordingly. Collaboration with a vet ensures tailored advice for your pet’s comfort and safety. Remember, with love, patience, and proper communication techniques, deaf dogs can lead rich, happy lives.