Adopting a Deaf Dog

Pictured: 'Molly' deaf Boxer X - rehomed

Owner Tips:

I own a deaf dachshund named Beethoven. Sometimes I think he "listens" better than my hearing dogs.

There are tricks you can use to get his attention; a laser pen (never shine it in his eyes, we don't want him to be blind as well). We live in a house that is up on a foundation so I am able to stomp on the floors to get his attention.

He likes to sleep near my feet, he will "panic" if I slip out of the room (awakens and races from room to room looking for me) so I always try to gently nudge him if I am going to relocate.

TALK to him!!! He may not be able to hear you but he can read your facial expressions and body language, he is deaf not dumb.

Join a deaf dogs list on yahoogroups.com

We do have the advantage of two hearing dachshunds in the house so he will keep an eye on them and follow along; his focus is amazing.

HAVE HIM  MICROCHIPPED!!!

It can be extremely difficult to call a deaf dog back. One person told me that when her deaf dog was out in the backyard facing away, and she wanted him in, she would throw a tennis ball PAST him, he would race to get it and (ta-dah) return it to her.

Beta is always on a leash & harness (not just a collar) when we go out as we feel it is more secure.

You just have to think ahead and it is good that you are asking questions.
Beethoven is a joy and there are times when if we didn't KNOW he was deaf, you would never guess it. He has been a blessing. I would not hesitate to do it again; absolutely NO REGRETS.

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