Deafness in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment

Hi Waggyfriend! Deafness in dogs is an important issue that can impact your faithful friend’s quality of life. From identifying early signs to understanding the causes and management options, it’s crucial to be well-informed in order to offer the best care possible. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about deafness in dogs: how to spot it, the different types and causes, and what steps to take to help your furry friend adjust. Ready? Let’s get started!

Types of deafness in dogs

Deafness in dogs can vary in type and severity. That is why Waggy's will tell you about some of the most common types of deafness in dogs below:

• Congenital Deafness: Imagine a puppy is born and, due to genetic reasons, cannot hear well from the start. This is what we call congenital deafness. Some breeds, such as Dalmatians, can have hearing problems from birth, either in one ear or both. It is as if the “volume” of their ear had never been turned on.
• Sensorineural Deafness: As dogs age, their ears, like the rest of their body, can wear out. This can lead to a condition called sensorineural deafness, which is like when the speakers on an old stereo start to sound distorted or die out completely. It can also occur from exposure to loud noises or infections that damage the hearing cells.
• Conductive Deafness: Sometimes dogs' ears become clogged with wax, infections, or foreign bodies, like something blocking the speaker on a radio. This prevents sound from reaching the inner ear and can cause conductive deafness. With proper treatment, this can often be resolved.
• Acquired Deafness: This is like deafness that develops after the dog was already well. It can be caused by chronic infections, trauma, or side effects of some medications. It's like if, after using your radio for a while, it starts to fail because of problems that developed with use.
• Temporary Deafness: Imagine your dog has a cold and, while it lasts, his ear is a little blocked. Temporary deafness is like that; it can be caused by infections or inflammations that affect hearing for a while, but often resolve with proper treatment.

Each type of deafness can have different causes and treatments, so if you notice your dog is having trouble hearing, it's best to consult your veterinarian to find the best solution and ensure your furry friend is receiving the proper care. If visits to the vet are causing stress and anxiety for your dog , consider using Waggy's HEMP Olive Oil with prior approval from your veterinarian. Remember that the use of any HEMP product should be supervised by your pet's veterinarian. At Waggy's, we care about the health and well-being of your furry companion every step of the way.

Causes of deafness in dogs

Deafness in dogs can be caused by a number of reasons, and understanding them can help you better care for your furry friend:

• Genetics and Birth: Some dog breeds, such as Dalmatians, are predisposed to deafness from birth. This congenital deafness can affect one or both ears, and is something that cannot be prevented, but can be managed with love and proper care.
• Aging: Just like humans, dogs can also experience hearing loss as they age. It's as if your dog's hearing is wearing down over time. This senile deafness is a natural part of aging and can be gradual.
• Ear Infections: Ear infections can be a major cause of deafness. If the ear is inflamed or filled with bacteria, it is as if the speaker is blocked and does not let sound through. Regular care and veterinary treatment can help prevent and treat these infections.
• Loud Noises: Exposing your dog to very loud noises, such as fireworks or loud music, can damage his hearing, a bit like his inner ear overheating. Deafness caused by loud noises can be temporary or permanent, depending on the intensity and duration of exposure.
• Trauma and Injury: If your dog suffers a head or ear injury, it can affect his hearing. It's like a bump in the sound system damaging the speaker. Injuries need to be treated quickly to minimize damage.
• Foreign Bodies: Sometimes small objects, such as rocks or pieces of plants, can get stuck in your dog's ear, blocking sound. If you suspect there is an object in your dog's ear, a veterinarian can help remove it safely.
• Medications: Some medications can have side effects that affect hearing. It's as if the medication has a negative impact on the "volume" of the ear. If you notice changes in your dog's hearing after starting a new medication, consult your veterinarian.

Understanding these causes can help you be more aware of your dog's hearing health and seek help when necessary. If you're ever concerned about your companion's hearing, don't hesitate to talk to your veterinarian for the best advice and treatment.

How do you know if a dog is deaf? Symptoms

Detecting whether a dog is deaf can be challenging, but there are some key symptoms to look out for. If your dog doesn't respond to normal sounds, such as the doorbell or the sound of their toys, it could be a sign of deafness. You may also notice that they startle easily when touched or approached from behind, as a lack of hearing can make them more alert to vibrations. Additionally, dogs with hearing loss often seem uninterested in commands or games they previously enjoyed, and may bark louder than usual to compensate for the lack of sound feedback. Watching dog language can help you identify whether your dog is experiencing hearing problems.

How is deafness diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosing deafness in dogs usually involves several steps to ensure an accurate assessment:

• Your veterinarian will begin with a general assessment of your dog's health and a physical exam. He or she will ask about any observed symptoms, such as a lack of response to sounds or changes in behavior.
• It is important to inform your veterinarian about any symptoms you have noticed, history of ear infections, exposure to loud noises, or changes in your dog's behavior.
• An ear examination will be performed to check for signs of infections, wax buildup, foreign bodies, or any visible abnormalities. This helps to identify whether the deafness is caused by problems in the outer or middle ear.

To confirm deafness, your veterinarian may use specific tests such as:

• Sound Response Tests
• Blink Reflex
• Electro diagnostics
• Imaging Exams

What to do if my dog ​​is losing hearing?

• Schedule a visit to your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. Your veterinarian can determine the cause of the hearing loss and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Allows your veterinarian to perform tests to assess the extent of hearing loss and rule out treatable problems such as infections or foreign bodies in the ear.
• Use visual and tactile cues to communicate with your dog. You can teach your dog commands with hand signals or gentle touches so that he can respond to your cues without relying on sound.
• Make sure your dog can move safely in his environment. Avoid sudden changes or loud noises that may scare him. Consider using fences or barriers to prevent him from straying too far from you.
• Reward your dog with Waggy's treats CBD Bites for dogs and praise when they respond to visual or tactile cues. This can help reinforce communication without relying on hearing. Strengthen the bond with your dog and offer the best in nutrition with Waggy's Salmon or Tuna flavoured Bites. These delicious treats are made with the highest quality and 100% natural proteins, ensuring your furry friend receives only the best. Enriched with sweet potato and Omegas 3, 6 and 9, they are not only an irresistible treat, but also contribute to maintaining their shiny coat, healthy skin and overall health. Ideal for rewarding good behaviour and sharing special moments together, Waggy's Bites are the perfect way to show your dog how much you love them. Get yours today.

• Maintain regular follow-up with your veterinarian to monitor the progression of hearing loss and address any related issues.
• In some cases, there are special devices that can help dogs with hearing loss, such as dog hearing aids, although their availability and effectiveness may vary.

Caring for a dog with hearing loss takes patience and adjustment, but with the right approach, you can help your furry friend live a happy, healthy life.

What do dogs feel when they go deaf?

When dogs become deaf, they may experience a range of emotions and sensations that affect their well-being. Hearing loss can cause confusion and anxiety as they rely heavily on sounds to orient themselves and communicate. They feel disoriented from not being able to hear surroundings that used to be familiar, which can lead to increased overexcitement and reliance on other senses such as touch and sight. They may also become more anxious or stressed due to the lack of auditory stimuli that previously provided them with security. With patience and adjustments to communication and environment, you can help your dog adjust to their new way of perceiving the world.

Can deafness in a dog be cured?

Deafness in dogs is not always curable, as it depends on the cause. In cases of temporary deafness or deafness caused by ear infections, appropriate veterinary treatment can improve or restore hearing. However, congenital deafness or hearing loss related to aging is often irreversible. In these cases, the focus is on helping the dog adapt to its new situation through visual and tactile communication techniques, as well as adjustments to its environment. Consulting with a specialized veterinarian is essential to determine the best management plan based on the cause and severity of the deafness.

Conclusion

Whether hearing loss is temporary or permanent, it is crucial to provide a safe environment and clear communication. Remember, early diagnosis and ongoing support are key to your dog's well-being. To reward and strengthen the bond with your dog, consider using Soothing dog treats like Waggy's Bites are not only delicious but nutritious too. With love and attention, you can ensure your dog feels loved and cared for at every stage of his life.