Hearing loss, either total or partial, can occur in one or both of your dog’s ears and may develop in any breed, or mix, as the result of numerous causes. A dog may be born with reduced or total hearing loss, the hearing loss can develop suddenly, or it may come on gradually and progressively. In most cases, deafness is not a condition that will impact your dog’s lifespan. However, deafness does present safety issues for your dog. For example, a dog with partial or total hearing loss may not be alert to oncoming dangers such as an approaching vehicle.

Your dog will not respond to audible signals.

There are many causes for deafness. Some of the more common causes include birth defects, ear infections, brain damage, nerve damage and trauma.

Breeds with white or partially white coats are more prone to developing congenital deafness. The incidence of congenital deafness in white dogs is over 15 times greater than the incidence of congenital deafness in other dogs.

Most often, a physical examination will reveal the presence of deafness. There is a test called the Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) that will be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. In many cases, such as with congenital deafness, there is no treatment option. However, special training programs are available to help you and your deaf or hearing-impaired dog continue to lead full lives together.

Prevention, if possible, depends upon the underlying cause. In general, any infections, especially ear infections, should be treated promptly. In addition, you should safeguard your dog from any potential physical or noise trauma.

No, it is not possible to become deaf simply because your dog is deaf.