Hearing loss

Age-related hearing loss is common in older dogs. Measurements of brainstem responses to sound show that, as in people, high and middle frequencies go first and the decline begins at roughly eight to ten years of age¹. Because dogs compensate for a while, the loss can seem sudden when it is finally noticed². Hearing loss in seniors is linked with worse cognitive scores and lower owner-rated quality of life, which mirrors what is seen in people³.

Not every deaf senior has age-related loss. Wax, infection and middle-ear disease block sound and can be treated, whereas sensorineural loss cannot, so an ear examination is worth it before assuming the worst⁴.

Deaf dogs do well on vision and vibration. Hand signals taught while hearing still works, a stamp on the floor, a light switched on and off, and a gentle touch on the same spot each time all become the new language². Keep a deaf dog on a lead near traffic, and wake a sleeping one by scent or touch rather than a shout.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Your vet knows your dog.

Sources

1. Effects of aging on brainstem responses to toneburst auditory stimuli: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study in dogs (ter Haar G et al.). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 22(4):937-945, 2008 (peer reviewed). Accessed 2026-09-22.
2. Deafness in Animals. Merck Veterinary Manual. Accessed 2026-09-22.
3. Relationship between hearing, cognitive function, and quality of life in aging companion dogs (Fefer G et al.). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 36(5):1708-1718, 2022 (peer reviewed). Accessed 2026-09-22.
4. Canine deafness (Strain GM). Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice 42(6):1209-1224, 2012 (peer reviewed). Accessed 2026-09-22.