Deafness in dogs: What you need to know

Whether your older dog is struggling with hearing loss or a deaf dog has joined the family, you can help them live happily and healthily.

Below, expert vet Dr Scott Miller shares what you need to know about dog deafness. Learn about the causes and symptoms of the condition, plus how to take care of your hard-of-hearing pup.

• How do dogs become deaf?
  > What breeds of dogs are prone to deafness
• How to tell if your dog is going deaf
• Treating deafness in dogs
• How to look after a deaf dog
  > How to teach your deaf dog hand signals
• Other questions about dog deafness
  > Can ear drops make my dog deaf?
  > Can hearing loss in dogs cause anxiety?
  > Is my dog deaf or just ignoring me?

How do dogs become deaf?

Just like humans, dogs can lose their hearing for a variety of reasons. This could be due to:

• Being born deaf, known as congenital deafness
• Degeneration of the inner ear due to old age
• Medical conditions such as growths and tumours
• Injuries to any part of the ear
• Medications used to treat ear conditions

Some forms of deafness may only be temporary and can be treated, so always speak to your vet if you think your dog has hearing problems.

> What breeds of dogs are prone to deafness

Deafness can appear more often in certain breeds as they carry a gene that can cause the condition. Dogs with white or merle coats and blue eyes may also be more prone to deafness.

Some breeds more at risk of the condition include:

• Dalmatians
• Australian Shepherds
• English Setters
• Border Collies
• Boston Terriers
• Great Danes

How to tell if your dog is going deaf

It may not always be obvious that your dog is going deaf, especially if their hearing loss is gradual or only in one ear.

Look out for signs and symptoms like:

• No longer responding to their name or their usual cues
• Not reacting to noises that would usually trigger a response
• Excessive barking or howling
• Difficulty waking up from sleeping
• An unusual startle response or disorientation
• Discharge or smells coming from the ear

You can also do a simple sound test to see if your dog reacts. Carefully enter the room without your dog spotting you, gently clap, and see if your dog looks in your direction.

Treating deafness in dogs

Temporary deafness in dogs can be treated in different ways depending on the cause of the hearing loss:

• Cleaning the ear – a vet can flush out any wax, dirt, or other trapped items that may be causing blockages inside the ear.
• Medication – antibiotics or antifungal medications can be prescribed to treat ear infections.
• Changing medication – hearing loss can be a reaction to certain medications your dog is taking, so swapping this can help.

Permanent deafness can’t be cured so the focus is on managing your dog’s lifestyle through safety measures, training, routine, and accessories.

How to look after a deaf dog

Your hard-of-hearing dog can still live a happy and healthy life with some adjustments and loving support from you.

1. Create a consistent routine – feeding and walking your dog within specific windows during the day can help give them structure and reassurance.
2. Secure your home – use puppy or baby gates to stop your dog from wandering into areas of the house where they could be at risk.
3. Go for on-lead walks – walking your dog on-lead allows you to keep them safe and help them navigate their environment. This is important if they can’t hear potential dangers such as traffic.
4. Use specialised clothing and accessories – harnesses, collars, and leads that say ‘deaf dog’ can alert those around you to be mindful and respectful that your dog may be vulnerable.
5. Ask your vet for help – always be mindful of your pup’s behaviour and watch out for anything unusual. Check if your dog insurance includes 24/7 vet video calls so you can speak to a professional anytime in the comfort of your home.

Remember to always advocate for your dog. That means telling people no if they want to approach them and your dog isn’t comfortable.

> How to teach your deaf dog hand signals

Teaching your deaf dog to understand hand signals and facial expressions is a great form of communication.

Working with a professional dog trainer can help set you and your hard-of-hearing dog up for success. In the meantime, here are some tips for hand signal training:

1. Choose your signals – decide which hand signals you’ll use for cues like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘leave it’. Keep signals simple and make sure everyone in the family uses the same signals for each cue.
2. Use positive reinforcement – show the hand signal and reward with a tasty treat when your dog responds correctly.
3. One at a time – practice the same hand signal over and over until your dog confidently responds with the correct cue.
4. Keep it short and frequent – training sessions should be kept short and spaced throughout the day to keep your pup engaged.
5. Be patient – training takes time and consistency so try not to get frustrated if it takes your dog a little while to master a new signal. Incorporate hand signals throughout daily routines such as feeding and walking to reinforce learning.

Other questions about dog deafness

> Can ear drops make my dog deaf?

Certain ear drops may cause deafness in dogs. This could be due to:

• Pre-existing conditions – dogs with chronic or severe ear infections are more at risk of adverse effects from ear drops.
• Incorrect use – using too much or incorrectly using ear drops can worsen the problem being treated.

Your vet will prescribe medications suitable for your dog’s needs and explain how to give them and how often.

Keep a close eye on your dog’s behaviour and return to your vet if you notice any signs of hearing loss in the medicated ear.

> Can hearing loss in dogs cause anxiety?

Dogs rely heavily on their hearing to interact with the world around them, so losing this can be very unsettling.

Reasons why your dog may become anxious due to hearing loss:

• They can no longer hear potential dangers around them, making them feel vulnerable.
• They may be used to verbal cues and comforting words from you; no longer having this can be isolating and confusing.
• They might be startled by sudden visuals or unexpected touches as they can’t hear things approaching.

Creating routines, giving your dog safe spaces to retreat when needed, and teaching them visual communication can help relieve anxiety.

Reach out to a qualified behaviourist if your dog is struggling with anxiety around their hearing loss.

> Is my dog deaf or just ignoring me?

We know your dog may have selective hearing when it comes to ‘treat’ versus ‘bathtime’ and ‘bedtime’.

But some of the key signs your dog may be going deaf are:

• Lack of response to sounds that normally get their attention, such as clapping and whistling.
• No reaction to common household noises like the vacuum or doorbell.
• Sleeping through loud noises that would normally alert them.
• Changes in behaviour such as clinginess, anxiety, and being easily startled.

If you’re genuinely concerned that your dog is struggling to hear you, get in touch with your vet who can run some tests.