When people think of handicapped dogs, they may immediately think of a physical condition, like having three legs or being paralyzed and needing a wheelchair. Most people don’t think about deafness in dogs and how dogs can also be deaf. Having a deaf dog comes with its own set of challenges, but a deaf dog can lead a full and happy life, just like any other dog. A vibration collar for deaf dogs can help you to both train and communicate with your deaf dog.
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Hearing Issues In Dogs
Dogs can experience issues with hearing, just like humans. Dogs can lose their hearing as they age or they may be deaf from birth. They can be partially deaf and still be able to hear some sounds or they can be fully deaf. Dogs can experience deafness as a result of:
- Genetics. Some breeds are more prone to deafness including ones with an all white coat or a mix of black, white, and grey.
- Old Age. Dogs can lose their hearing as they age, just like humans.
- A Virus or Illness.
- Traumatic Injury.
Even if dogs are fully deaf, they may still be able to sense vibrations emitted from footsteps or other sounds.
How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Deaf?
If you think your dog may be deaf or hard of hearing, you can clap your hands or make some noise with a favorite toy out of sight of your dog to see if they react to it. Make sure you are not in their line of sight or standing close to them so you will know for sure if they are reacting to the sound or just relying on their other senses.
If your dog is gradually losing their hearing, they may no longer respond when you call their name or give a command.
Puppies that are deaf from birth may be difficult to train at first or not respond to your verbal cues.
How Can I Communicate With My Deaf Dog?
Hand signals are the best way to communicate with your deaf dog. Some people choose to use signs taken from American Sign Language (ASL), others choose to make up their own hand signals. You will also want to choose a sign that represents their name when communicating with them.
Whatever signs you decide to use, always use positive reinforcement and reward them when they get the command right.
Another way to communicate with your deaf dog is to use a vibration collar. A vibration collar can help you to get your dog’s attention since they will be unable to hear you call out their name. This is important if your dog happens to run out of your yard or you are near high traffic areas.
What Is A Vibration Collar?
A vibration collar is worn just like any other collar. It is essentially a box that can vibrate when you press a button on a remote control. Most vibration collars come with a nylon collar you can adjust to fit your dog, but the majority allow you to take the box and fit it on any collar you have for your dog.
The strength or intensity of the vibration emitted by each collar varies with the manufacturer. Some also allow you to choose how strong you want the vibration to be. This is a good feature to have, as you only want the vibration to be strong enough to get your dog’s attention without scaring them.
It is important to note that vibration collars are not the same as shock collars. When using these collars, you will not harm or cause any pain to your dog. If you are unsure about using a vibration collar for your deaf dog, speak to your veterinarian to determine if it is a good choice for your dog. You can even buy one and try it out on yourself to see how the vibration feels.
How Does A Vibration Collar Work?
There are two parts to using a vibration collar for your deaf dog: the vibration collar itself which your dog wears and the remote control that you use to trigger the vibration.
First, you will need to charge both devices. Most charge using a USB charger. Some even have a dual charging cord, which allows you to charge both the collar and remote at the same time.
Once both devices are charged, place the collar on your dog. The collar should not be tight on your dog and you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.
Next, depending on the type of collar you have, press the vibration button on your remote. This should emit a vibration through the box on the collar. You may want to try out the different levels of intensity on yourself before putting it on your dog so you get an idea of how strong the vibration can be and what would be best for your dog.
When you want to get your dog’s attention, press the button on the remote to elicit the vibration. Once they look at you, give them a treat and praise. Eventually, your dog will associate the vibration and looking at you. You can then work on getting them to go over to you when you press the button. Once they have this learned, whenever you need your dog, press the button. As mentioned earlier, this is helpful if your dog is missing in your yard and you can’t find them or they are running near oncoming traffic and you need to call them back.
Every vibration collar has a different range for which the remote can effectively control the collar. If you are just using the remote in your home, you can use a short range collar. If your dog has a lot of space to run outside, look for a long range collar.
Are Vibration Collars Good For Deaf Dogs?
Vibration collars are fine to use on deaf dogs as long as the vibration is not too strong for them, which could scare them. You only want the strength of the vibration to be just enough to get their attention without causing any harm.
How Long Can I Leave A Vibration Collar On My Dog?
This depends on what you are using the vibration collar for. If you are using the collar for training purposes, then the collar should only be on while you are training. Using the collar to get your dog’s attention when needed, you will want to keep it on longer.
If you are going to keep the collar on for long durations, you will want to remove it every two hours to give your dog a break from it for a bit.
Periodically check the area where the vibration box is sitting to be sure it is not causing any damage to your dog’s hair or skin. You may also want to rotate where the box touches your dog on a regular basis to avoid any damage as well.
What Should I Look For When Purchasing A Vibration Collar?
If you are thinking about getting a vibration collar for your deaf dog, here are some things you may want to look for:
Collar Size
Look for an adjustable collar. You will want one that you can adjust to fit the size of your dog’s neck properly.
Box Size
This is important if you have a small dog. You don’t want it to be too overwhelming or heavy to keep on your dog.
Training Features
Most vibration collars offer different training features. This usually includes sound, vibration, or a combination of both sound and vibration. The sound feature can be used in dogs that are partially deaf or hard of hearing and they still can make out some sounds. There are vibration collars that also include a light function, which is another great way to get your dog’s attention.
Adjustable Intensity
Look for a vibration collar that allows you to adjust the intensity of the vibration emitted. This feature is good for dogs that may get scared from the vibration and can only handle a subtle vibration. On the other hand, if your dog is double coated or has thick fur, you may need to use a stronger intensity in order for them to feel the vibration.
Remote Control
The remote should be easy to use and feel comfortable in your hand. You may also want to look for a remote with a lock feature. This allows you to keep the remote in your pocket without accidentally pressing any buttons. This is handy if you are using the vibration collar to train your dog.
Range
The right range for you depends on your situation. If your dog is primarily inside or if you have a small yard, you can get away with a small range collar. If you have a large area where your dog will be, a long range vibration collar will be better.
Waterproof
Having a waterproof vibration collar ensures you will be able to get your dog’s attention, even if you are in the rain or snow or if your dog likes to swim.
Multiple Dogs
There are some collars that allow you to use one remote to control more than one collar. This is a great feature if you have multiple dogs with hearing impairments.
Pros To A Vibration Collar For Deaf Dogs
- Easy to use.
- Various ranges to fit your lifestyle.
- Does not hurt your dog.
- No chance of accidentally shocking your dog.
Cons To A Vibration Collar For Deaf Dogs
- Vibration may scare your dog.
- If left on for too long it can damage the hair or skin.
- Your dog may not respond to vibration.
Best Vibration Collar For Deaf Dogs
Here are 6 vibration collars that can be used on deaf or hearing impaired dogs. Product information is according to the manufacturer. None of these collars has a shock setting on them, so there is no chance of accidentally shocking your dog when using them.
SODOG No Shock Dog Training Collar
- 2,000 feet range.
- Waterproof.
- Charges in 2 hours.
- Uses a USB to charge.
- Uses 3 training modes:
- Vibration.
- Sound.
- Vibration and sound.
- Remote has a lock function to help you avoid pressing a button while it is in your pocket.
- For dog’s 8-120 pounds.
- Has adjustable vibration intensity.
- Prong free.
PetJoy Vibrating Dog Collar
- Uses 3 modes:
- Vibration
- Sound.
- Both vibration and sound.
- Waterproof.
- One USB charger can charge both the remote and receiver at the same time.
- Comes with a nylon collar.
- Adjustable vibration intensity.
- Arc design for comfort.
- No prongs.
- Charging indicator on the receiver.
- Up to 1500 feet range.
PaiPaitek Vibrating Dog Collar
- Waterproof.
- Up to 3300 feet range.
- For dogs 5-120 pounds.
- Adjustable collar.
- Charges in 2 hours.
- One remote can control 3 collars.
- Prong free.
- Uses vibration and sound.
Brapezie Dog Training Collar
- Uses 3 training modes:
- Weak Vibration.
- Strong Vibration.
- Beep.
- Charges with a USB.
- Has a 2000 foot range.
- Includes an adjustable, reflective nylon collar.
- Recommended for dogs 18-110 pounds.
- Waterproof.
- Can be used with 2 dogs with one remote.
- Uses silicone prongs.
- Charges in 2 hours.
- Lock feature on the remote.
- Built in LED light.
- Adjustable vibration intensity.
Wolfwill Waterproof Training Collar
- Cannot adjust the strength of vibration, only the length of time it vibrates.
- Waterproof.
- Up to 1980 feet.
- Uses 3 modes:
- Sound.
- Vibration.
- Light.
- Charges in 2 hours.
- Comes with an adjustable collar.
- Good for dogs 22-88 pounds.
Deaf and hard of hearing dogs can live a fulfilling life. A vibration collar for deaf dogs can be used to help you get your dog’s attention when needed and even help you to train them without causing any pain. Positive reinforcement is always important when training your dog. A vibration collar and hand signals can help you to better communicate with your deaf dog.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.