Deaf Dog Training
Deaf dog training is in many ways similar to training a hearing dog. However, there are also some special issues you will face as well. Your primary mode of communication with your deaf dog will be through the use of hand signals as well as your facial expressions and body language.
You can use basic obedient signals for commands such as sit, stay, down, come and stop, but you will need to expand this vocabulary in order to be able to communicate with your dog. Some people use American Sign Language (ASL) or make up their own sign language to communicate with their deaf dog.
You will also need to have a method for gaining and keep your dog’s attention as well as finding substitutes for verbal feedback and praise. Another consideration is to ensure that your deaf dog is safe and desensitize him from becoming startled from unexpected touch or distractions.
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How To Get Started
As with all dog training, deaf dog training requires a lot of patience, time and consistency. You will also want to use positive reinforcement by giving your deaf puppy or dog rewards for performing the behavior or action you desire rather than punishing them for doing something wrong. Food rewards work well for deaf puppies as well as older dogs. As your dog gets older you can also use affection and enthusiasm to reward your deaf dog.
Fortunately dogs communicate through visual signs rather than verbal language, so teaching your dog to respond to hand signals will not be too difficult. The important thing is that your signals be clear and consistent, as well as distinct from other signs.
You can start off with some of the basic commands such as sit, stay, and down. You will also want to have a signal for “yes” and follow that up with a treat or other reward. You will need to use repetition, consistency and patience in your deaf dog training, but your deaf puppy or dog will likely learn the hand signals and other verbal cues fairly quickly if they receive positive feedback and rewards.
You will also need to have a way to get your deaf dog’s attention. There are several ways you can do this. You can stomp your foot on the ground. The dog may be able to feel the vibrations in the floor. You can also toss a ball or toy in front of him, or touch him lightly. If it is night time, you can turn the porch or garage light on and off to get your dog’s attention.
Another Thing to Remember
Another thing you need to take into consideration with deaf dog training, is teaching your dog not to be startled by being touched or woken up suddenly. To desensitize your dog, you can wake your sleeping puppy or dog up gently by holding your hand in front of their nose so they can smell it or touch them lightly on the shoulder. You can also come from behind them and touch them.
When they turn around give them a treat, so that they don’t associate unexpected touch with something bad. You will need to be gentle with training your deaf dog in this area. It is important that you keep your deaf dog safe. It is not recommended to let your dog off a leash unless he is indoors or in a contained fenced yard.
Deaf dog training can be very rewarding for both you and your dog. Although there are some special challenges, in many ways your deaf dog is like any other dog and will respond well to basic dog training techniques. As long as you show patience and consistency in your training you and your deaf puppy or dog should get along just fine.