If you’ve noticed your pup isn’t responding to sound cues like they used to, it’s possible they may be deaf. While it’s not always easy to tell if your dog is deaf, there are some signs that can help you determine if your pup is having difficulty hearing. Here are seven vet-reviewed signs that may indicate your dog is deaf.
1. Lack of Response to Noises
One of the most obvious signs of deafness in dogs is a lack of response to noises. If your pup doesn’t respond to noises like the doorbell, a car horn, or their name being called, it’s possible they may be deaf.
2. Difficulty Waking Up
If your pup is having difficulty waking up, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear noises that would normally wake them up, such as a loud noise or their name being called.
3. Unusual Sleeping Habits
If your pup is sleeping more than usual or sleeping in unusual places, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear noises that would normally wake them up, so they may sleep more than usual.
4. Unusual Startle Responses
If your pup is easily startled by sudden movements or loud noises, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear noises that would normally alert them to potential danger, so they may be more easily startled.
5. Unusual Vocalizations
If your pup is making unusual vocalizations, such as barking or whining, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear their own vocalizations, so they may bark or whine more than usual.
6. Unusual Eye Contact
If your pup is making less eye contact than usual, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear noises that would normally draw their attention, so they may make less eye contact than usual.
7. Unusual Behavior
If your pup is exhibiting unusual behavior, such as pacing or circling, it could be a sign of deafness. Dogs who are deaf may not be able to hear noises that would normally alert them to potential danger, so they may exhibit unusual behavior.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your pup, it’s important to take them to the vet for a hearing test. The vet can determine if your pup is deaf and provide you with the best course of action for your pup’s health and wellbeing.