Why are some Aussies deaf? The most common cause of deafness in Aussies is a lack of melanocytes (pigment cells) in the inner ear. These cells help translate air vibrations caused by sound into electrical impulses that travel to the brain. If the cells are absent, the dog will be deaf.
Some dogs begin to lose their hearing at a young age, and certain breeds of dog are more susceptible to becoming deaf. Dalmatians, German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, and Boston Terriers are just some of the breeds that are known to be more genetically predisposed to deafness.
Aussies also are highly sensitive to sound and can become fearful of loud noises, such as thunderstorms. This means they are excellent watchdogs and will always alert you to anything or anyone that is out of the ordinary, but will also react to any random loud noise. Because of this, they are often barkers.
The AKC currently recognizes erect, prick, and droopy ears as a “fault,” so most dogs in the U.S. do not have ears that stand up. But it is possible for a completely purebred Australian Shepherd to end up with erect ears. This occurrence is rare, and most of these dogs are sold as “pet-quality” animals.
Your Aussie will bond to his family and be protective of and loyal to them. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that even though Aussies have strong guarding and herding instincts, they are sweet and cuddly indoor dogs that can even be kept in apartments.
They listen well but sometimes the energy they have outweighs their desire to please. Australian shepherds need lots of exercise and grooming especially when shedding their coat.
Certain veterinary specialists can perform the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) Test. This is the most reliable method for determining deafness in dogs. The test was first used in infants and is now being used to evaluate hearing in dogs.
Deafness in Dogs
More than 30 breeds of dogs have a known susceptibility for deafness, including the Australian shepherd, Boston terrier, cocker spaniel, Dalmatian, German shepherd, Jack Russell terrier, Maltese, toy and miniature poodle, and West Highland white terrier. Typically, it is more common in senior dogs.
You can test your dog's hearing by standing in a location where he cannot see you and making a sharp audible sound (loud whistle, clap, jingle of keys, tap on a fixed or movable object, etc.). If there's no head turn or altered ear position, then he may not hear you so well.
Australian Shepherds are known for their fierce loyalty with one person, that doesn't mean every Shepherd will act like that. Some Shepherds might not build a particularly strong bond with any one family member. Others might like one of you more than another, but they don't sit on you to show it.
Aussies are best suited for families with an active lifestyle and a large fenced yard. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They can weigh between 35 and 70 pounds and have an average life span of 12-13 years.
Why are some Aussies deaf? The most common cause of deafness in Aussies is a lack of melanocytes (pigment cells) in the inner ear. These cells help translate air vibrations caused by sound into electrical impulses that travel to the brain. If the cells are absent, the dog will be deaf.
With the increased need for bathing and longer hair, clean and check your Australian Shepherd's ears routinely. By cleaning their ears, you can prevent infections or the buildup of dirt or debris.
The reasons that your Australian Shepherd isn't listening to you may include: needing more foundational training, too many distractions, or a lack of motivation. No matter what your problem, better training techniques and programs can help you solve it.
What are the causes of deafness in dogs? Deafness may be caused by a number of factors, including congenital defects, chronic ear infections, head injuries, drug toxicity, degenerative nerve changes, old age or disease, such as a tumor or ruptured ear drum.
In fact, a dog without hearing can be even more loving, as he has learned to rely on his other senses. He will stick closer to you so that he can see your movements and snuggle up close so that he can feel your closeness. Never let deafness in your dog discourage you.
At the end of the day, it's important to remember that hearing loss does not have to hinder your pup's quality of life. As Webb puts it: "Deaf dogs can live happy, healthy, long lives and make great companions.
Their hearing capabilities are slightly different to ours; our hearing frequency being 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz whilst a dog's is 40 Hz to 60,000 Hz. This means that they can hear sounds at a higher pitch, a prime example being a dog whistle; undetectable to humans but excruciatingly clear for dogs.
Deaf dogs may bark less than other dogs, and the voice may sound odd. They frequently develop behavior problems because of their inability to understand human communication, and because they may be easily startled or frightened by the unexpected.
If you suspect your pet is losing her hearing, test her by calling her name or making a loud noise when she is looking away from you. Try several different levels in the tone of your voice because some dogs may be able to hear a higher or lower pitched sounds. Age related hearing loss can't be prevented.
While adaptable, the loyal and devoted Australian Shepherd does best with its people nearby. They are often demanding of attention and they do not like to be left alone.
Do Australian Shepherds like living indoors? Despite their working shepherd dog DNA, Aussie dogs love to cuddle up on the sofa and be part of home and family life. In fact, they are incredibly sociable, family-orientated dogs, and so they should live, eat, and sleep indoors with you.
Canine companions that follow their humans everywhere are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because of their desire to be attached to your side. “Dogs are pack animals, and we are their pack,” says Sally Morgan, author and holistic physical therapist for pets and people.