How to Train Deaf Dogs

Dogs can become deaf through disease, injury, old age or can be born with congenital deafness. Some breeds, like Dalmatians, are notorious for producing deaf dogs, although responsible breeders won't breed a deaf dog. No matter what the reason for the deafness, deaf dogs make good pets and companions. They still get around with sight and scent.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leash
• Collar or chest harness
• Variety of treats
• Penlight
• Predetermined hand signals

1. Take the dog to the vet to determine if the dog is actually deaf. Physical causes of deafness include infection in the ear, hypothyroidism or a defect of the ear. Some medications like streptomyacin can cause temporary deafness. The dog may be given a brain stem auditory response (BAER) test to see if he really is deaf. If the dog is really deaf, proceed to Step Two.

2. Decide what hand signals to use for major commands. For example, pointing down can mean "lie down." Make sure everyone in the family knows these commands so as not to confuse the dog. When a command is done successfully, clap your hands together so the dog knows he has done well.

3. Carry around bite-size treats with you at all times. This makes you more interesting to the dog and, therefore, he'll look at you more often. You can also get your deaf dog's attention by stamping on the ground or shining a penlight on the ground and luring the dog back to you.

4. Keep a collar or chest harness and lead on the dog when beginning training to avoid distractions. First, train the dog inside the home. Watch the dog. If the dog is just about to lie down or sit or come over to you, clap your hands and give a treat. Gradually pair this spontaneous action of the dog with a hand signal and a treat.

5. Move outside to a fenced-in yard and let the dog off leash when the dog can obey commands inside the home. Flash a light or stomp to get the dog's attention, give the hand signal and reward only when the dog obeys. If the dog does not obey -- no reward. Eventually, they get the idea.

Tips & Warnings

• Talking to the dog or giving vocal commands is okay, because they can help you remember what hand signals to use. But if you can remember the signals without using words, that's okay, too. Dogs have short attention spans. Keep the training sessions a few minutes long a couple of times a day. Ask your vet to recommend a professional dog trainer if you are having trouble.
• Never hit your dog. That can make a dog frightened of you. Frightened dogs are more prone to bite. If you use a laser light to get your dog's attention, never shine it in her eyes.

Resources

• DDEAF Training Tips
• Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook
• Deaf Dogs Information Site