Smile! Deaf dogs are very aware of facial expressions and body language;
Mark the exact second your dog does something right with a “good” sign or simple thumbs up;
Give a high valued treat; and
Repeat.
Visual commands:
Use the “see” visual command to get your dogs attention. Start this by putting a high valued treat in front of your pups nose, drawing it up towards your face and then flashing the “see” command; and
Adjust typical verbal cue training methods by using visual commands.
Calming:
Use slow, flowing hand movements (like a dance) to help sooth or calm your dog. This is like a lullaby for your pup.
Talk to them like they can hear:
When you speak, your facial expression and body language changes. It helps to tell your dog the full story. (Ex. Say “Sit” while you use the visual command)
Share your knowledge:
Teach your friends, family and vet (whoever may interact with your pup on a regular basis) a few basic visual commands. This may help your pup feel more comfortable and your friends/family can assist in communication when needed.
Tell the world:
Along wi
TIPS ON CARING FOR
HEARING IMPAIRED PUPS
Positive reinforcement:
Smile! Deaf dogs are very aware of facial expressions and body language;
Mark the exact second your dog does something right with a “good” sign or simple thumbs up;
Give a high valued treat; and
Repeat.
Visual commands:
Use the “see” visual command to get your dogs attention. Start this by putting a high valued treat in front of your pups nose, drawing it up towards your face and then flashing the “see” command; and
Adjust typical verbal cue training methods by using visual commands.
Calming:
Use slow, flowing hand movements (like a dance) to help sooth or calm your dog. This is like a lullaby for your pup.
Talk to them like they can hear:
When you speak, your facial expression and body language changes. It helps to tell your dog the full story. (Ex. Say “Sit” while you use the visual command)
Share your knowledge:
Teach your friends, family and vet (whoever may interact with your pup on a regular basis) a few basic visual commands. This may help your pup feel more comfortable and your friends/family can assist in communication when needed.
Tell the world:
Along with an “I’m Deaf” name tag, use a collar, leash, vest and/or bandana that indicates that your pup is hearing impaired. This may help with possible confusion or anxiety that your dog has when someone they do not know approaches them. It may also deter people from startling your pup.
Casey is a sweet hearing impaired, 5 month old puppy. She was recently diagnosed in February so she is just starting to learn the ropes.
She loves having another dog friend in the house to play and would do best in a home without a cat since she thinks it’s fun to chase them.
Casey is a love bug who loves to cuddle. It would wonderful to find a home for Casey away from a busy street, in a calm environment where she can focus on learning visual commands and bonding with her new family.
Opal is a 10 month old hearing impaired pup who is very smart and already learning new visual commands.
Opal really enjoys spending time with other dogs and being outdoors. She has medium energy and would love a fenced in yard to play in, though she knows when it’s time to be calm and focus and enjoys a good nap.
She is food motivated and is responding well to training and simple visual commands. She already knows “sit” and “down” and will catch on quickly in a quiet, consistent home, with a family where she can be the center of their universe.
