The problem is that some deaf dogs have along with humans is that their ears can generate artefact sounds. Sometimes it startles them. And it can really frighten them. Nell doesn't know what its like to have hearing so she has an advantage over newly deaf dogs she maybe used to or not experience these artifacts.
I have a hearing colleague whose wife is deaf. They use sign language. They taught their dog some sign language words! She knew "bone" and a few others. The dog could hear but I guess dogs are so visual, and they were signing, so i guess it made sense to communicate with her like that.
I was heartbroken when Doug went deaf because he would never hear me say you are a good boy ever again. His physio said he looks at you and knows that facial expression still tell him he's a good boy he will get it. He did and he always knew he was a good boy. They watch us all the time we don't have to talk
When we went to training classes we were encouraged to use minimal voice - but to use hand signals and body positioning. He got really ratty at some owners who just did not get it. The lone voice in the field shouting at their dog He was forever chucking his hat on the ground in despair
I was teaching a class at the dog club a few months ago. Most people at our club use hand and verbal cues simultaneously for everything. As a kind of test I got the class to give their dogs verbal cues only (with hands by sides) for 'sit, drop and stand'. Not a single dog performed any of the above! Then I got them to repeat it with visual (hand) cues only, no voice. 100% success. Dogs are waaaay more tuned in to what our bodies are doing.....
Snowie responds much better to visual commands. At the vet last week he was having his ears checked. Super excited to be at vet, wouldn't stop moving. She asked him to sit, which he'd done earlier cos she had a treat. But this time she was trying to stick the scope (is that what it's called?) in his ear. He could hear nothing, I could see he was in overload. So I just raised my finger - my sit cue - and he was in a sit immediately. I didn't let on to the vet her sitsitsit wasn't working, she is so lovely and sweet to Snowie.
Thanks for all your comments, much appreciated x We`re both working on visual cues all the time , and she certainly shows response when we smile happily at her, her little tail goes into overdrive ! She really is the most delightful tiny dog who is worth all the extra effort , she and Sam raise many a smile when out together , our little and large x
She really has landed on her paws with you Kate. Doesn't sound like her deafness will hold you both back either I wonder if she will start to look to Sam for guidance when she is not sure? Sort of like a hearing dog?
Yes, she does follow Sam, but she also turns round the check where I am , which is quite lovely and given the choice, she will follow me x
That sounds the ideal solution @kateincornwall - that Nell looks to her big brother but turns to check in with you and closes to stay with you. Gorgeous little girl will well and truly blossom with you x
