My Dog Is Deaf

Visitor: My Dog Is Deaf

I am dealing with a Boston Terrier that is deaf. He is ten months old and appears to be very intelligent. If he is looking at me, I can use hand signals that he usually obeys, but if he is not looking I have trouble getting his attention.

We have a large fenced in area, and I need advice as how to get his attention when he is not where he can see me.

~~ G.G. Glass

Expert Reply

Hi G.G.,

I have a deaf six-month-old Jack Russell Terrier myself, and dealing with a deaf dog is new ground for me too. My dog also does well with hand signals, and when we're in the house I can thump the floor to get her attention.

I haven't tackled the problem outside yet, but I think a basic obedience course could be beneficial, because the beginning lessons are all about teaching your dog to watch you wherever you go. This makes it easier to use hand signals in an outdoor situation.

I've also been thinking about investing in a shock collar. This is a useful training tool and not harmful at all when used with discretion. I would set it on the very lowest setting and just use it when the dog is outside. You can use the remote to get the dog's attention, and then go back to hand signals.

Thank you for your question, and I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Let me know how you work it out.

~~ Kelly