Hearing loss in an older dog: hand signals and everyday cues that help

Signs the hearing is fading

The AKC says age-related hearing loss in dogs usually comes from gradual degenerative changes in the nerves inside the ear, much like in older people, so symptoms creep up slowly. A dog may stop sitting when asked, fail to come when called, ignore a squeaky toy or rattling car keys, not turn when their name is called, sleep more deeply, or stay undisturbed by loud noises that used to get a reaction. VCA suggests at-home checks like rattling keys or clapping behind the dog, making sure the dog cannot see the source of the sound. If there is no response, a vet visit matters: the AKC says a vet can confirm hearing loss and rule out other causes.

Switch to cues your dog can see and feel

Hand signals become the main channel. The AKC suggests giving the gesture just before a verbal cue your dog still partially hears; after enough repetitions the dog responds to the signal alone, and a visible marker like a thumbs-up can replace a clicker or a spoken "yes." VCA notes that deaf dogs quickly learn to watch their people, which makes signals and body language natural to teach. For attention, the AKC lists stamping on the floor, waving a hand, a gentle touch in the same spot each time, a flashlight wink at night, or a vibration collar - not a shock collar - trained to mean "look at me."

Prevent the startle

The AKC warns that dogs who cannot hear an approach may startle when touched or surprised, especially out of a deep sleep, and any frightened dog can nip. Approach with heavy footsteps so the vibration announces you. Desensitize your dog to unexpected touch: touch gently on the same spot, then offer a valued treat, and repeat until the touch predicts something good. To wake a sleeping dog, the AKC suggests first placing a hand near the nose so your smell wakes them, then a gentle touch followed by a reward.

Safety outside the house

A dog that cannot hear traffic, cyclists or other people should not be off leash, the AKC says, so keep walks leashed and be ready to move your dog out of the way of surprises. It suggests keeping dog-dog play to familiar dogs you can supervise. Hearing and eyesight can fade together in seniors, so if your dog seems to ignore requests, patience beats frustration - they may not have heard or seen the cue.

Track what changes

Keep a short log: which cues your dog still answers, which sounds get no reaction, and the dates you noticed each change. In PawLine, dated notes make it easy to compare week to week and to share a clear summary with your vet.

Sources

• American Kennel Club: Hearing loss in senior dogs: signs, symptoms, management
• VCA Animal Hospitals: Living with a deaf dog
• American Kennel Club: How to train a deaf dog