Deaf Dog Awareness

It is known dogs have an incredible sense of hearing, this is used to navigate through their daily life’s. What if a dog was born deaf? How would they survive? There’s good news, with a bit of thought, consideration, and training deaf dogs can live normal happy lives. Here are some interesting facts you may not know about deaf dogs.

• Although any dog has the possibility of becoming deaf, more than 30 breeds of dogs have a known susceptibility of deafness. Some including the Australian Shepherds, Boston Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dalmatians, Boxers, Miniature Poodles and West Highland Terriers to name a few.

• If they want to bark they will bark! Yes, deaf dogs still have the ability to bark. They may not use it as a standard form of communicating like other dogs, but they still act on instinct.

• Studies show many deaf dogs are white. The reasoning behind this is dogs who are born without pigment are also missing hearing cells. These cells start from the same stem cells. If a dog has no pigment, its likely they lack hearing cells resulting in deafness.

• Deaf dogs are just as trainable and obedient as dogs with hearing. They are capable of learning hand commands and tricks. Proving all dogs are extremely intelligent regardless of their disability.

• They are not a burden! They are just as smart, funny, charming and will give you unconditional love no differently.

Although raising a deaf dog verse one that hears may be a challenge, it is not impossible. It simply takes the right training and an overwhelming amount of love. If you are having thoughts on adopting a deaf dog or feel your companion is losing its hearing, contact our office at (813) 501-4985 for more information and tips.