Canine Deafness

According to the AKC website, around 5% to 10% of our canine companions are deaf. That means there are quite a lot of pups out there whose cute ears aren’t operating properly! Continue reading for more information on deafness in dogs from a Brantford, ON veterinarian.

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Might Be Deaf?

If you know or suspect that your dog has lost his hearing, schedule an appointment with your Brantford, ON veterinarian to have Fido tested. In the interim, you may test him out at home. Wait till he wakes up and then stand behind him. Set off a noisemaker, such as a squeaky toy or an alarm, and see if he responds. 

This is, of course, a very informal test. Your veterinarian will need to run more tests, such as Baer testing, to get an official diagnosis.

Is Deafness Always Permanent In Dogs?

This will depend on the dog and the reason for the hearing loss. In some circumstances, wax buildup might cause temporary deafness. Certain conditions, such as infections, may be treatable. For most dogs, however, it is a one-way street. 

Are Certain Breeds More Susceptible To Deafness?

Breed does play a role, as it is closely linked to Fido’s DNA, and hence to any inherited diseases that may be present. While any dog can lose their hearing, certain breeds are more susceptible than others. Some examples include the Akita, English Setter, Old English Sheepdog, Papillon, Doberman, Pekingese, American Eskimo Dog, Chow Chow, and Pit Bull.

What Are The Causes Of Deafness In Dogs?

Various conditions can induce deafness. Many times, it’s triggered by something in Fido’s genetic composition. Cochleosaccular deafness is a rather routine type of hereditary hearing loss. This form of deafness is more common in puppies with piebald, merle, or white coats and blue eyes. Then there’s neuroepithelial deafness, which arises from the loss (or absence) of cochlear hair cells. As the name implies, these are hairs that develop in the ears. This type of deafness is frequently detectable in puppies quite early on.

Of course, age is another important consideration. It is common for pooches to lose their hearing as they become older.

Infections, traumas, medicines, tumors, brain lesions, and endocrine abnormalities are some more prevalent reasons for canine hearing loss.

Caring for a Deaf Dog

What if your dog is going deaf? There is some good news here, however. In many ways, caring for a deaf dog is similar to caring for a regular puppy. You’ll only need to make a few changes to Fido’s care regimen.

Here’s some suggestions:

Safety: Because your dog will be unable to hear sounds like automobile horns, brakes, and shouting, you will need to take extra precautions with him. If you have a yard, ensure there is a solid fence that your pet cannot climb over, under, or through. 

You should also be careful when walking your dog. Consider connecting a double leash to Fido’s harness for added security.

Fair Warning: As previously said, many deaf dogs dislike being crept up on. Before approaching your dog, stamp your foot to alert him to your presence. If you need to rouse Fido, try placing a treat under his nose. Man’s Best Friend enjoys breakfast in bed! (Actually dogs like food any time and any place, but that’s beside the point.)

Communicating With Others: Inform youngsters and guests on the dos and don’ts of interacting with your canine companion. If you have visitors coming over, let them know ahead of time that your pet cannot hear. You could also get Fido an adorable vest that reads ‘I can’t hear’ or something similar.

Training: Our canine companions are extremely intelligent, and can learn to respond to hand signals rather than spoken orders. You may need to hire a professional trainer, but the investment will be worthwhile in the long term. You may also want to teach Fido to come when you wave a flashlight or point a laser pointer.

Accessories: Consider putting a small bell on your dog’s collar. This will allow you to always be aware of his location, as he won’t hear you calling him. A light-up collar can be useful at night. Your veterinarian will be able to provide additional information and recommendations for caring for your canine companion.

What Are the Telltale Signs of Deafness In Dogs?

Fido cannot tell you if his fuzzy ears are in poor shape, but there are certain telltale symptoms to look out for.

Being Cranky: Almost all canines with vision or hearing impairments dislike being shocked. Fido may become irritated if you approach him from behind. He could appear shocked, leap, look around, snarl, or snap.

Increased Barking: You may find that your pet barks more than usual. Fido may also raise his voice if he is having difficulty hearing himself.

Missing Sounds: Fido’s ears are normally very keen. Most puppies hear much better than we do. People cannot hear disruptions at frequencies higher than 20kHz. Fido, on the other hand, can detect noises between 47k and 65k Hz. Dogs can sense softer noises than what humans can detect, with a frequency range of 3 to 12 kHz. Your canine companion can hear things at -15dB, which is significantly lower than what our ears can detect. 

All being said, if your dog isn’t responding to noises as well as he used to, there could be an issue. This may appear to improve and deteriorate over time, but remember that some noises generate vibrations. If something falls off a shelf, your dog may still leap, but the impact vibration may shock him more than the noise itself. Of course, if your dog ignores the sound of a cheese wrapper opening, that is also a clear warning sign!

Ignoring Commands: If Fido was previously very proficient at following directions but now ignores you when you tell him to Sit, Stay, or Lay Down, he may be unable to hear you.

Increased Sleep: Just like humans, dogs sleep more when they are depressed or ill. Ear problems can cause both.

Shaking Or Tilting The Head: You might see Fido shaking or tilting his head. You may notice that your pet’s ears feel heated. He may also paw his ears or rub his head on objects, including you. A foul odor, as well as discharge that is green, red, yellow, brown, or black, can all indicate an infection. A dog with an infection may not want his ears or head touched.

If you notice any of these indicators, please contact your Brantford, ON veterinarian right away.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Brantford, ON Animal Clinic

Do you have any questions about hearing loss in dogs? Do you know or believe your dog has ear issues? You can contact us at any time. As your Brantford, ON pet hospital, we are here to help!