If you’re a dog parent to a deaf dog or suspect your dog has hearing loss, you might wonder: Do deaf dogs bark more than hearing dogs? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on the dog, their environment, and how they’ve been trained. Most deaf dogs do bark more than hearing dogs.
This happens mainly because they can’t hear themselves or the environment, so they miss the usual sound cues that help hearing dogs regulate their barking. They might bark louder, more often, or for longer without realizing it. They may also bark out of confusion, frustration, or to get attention, especially if they’re unsure what’s going on around them.
However, not all deaf dogs bark more. Some may bark less if they’re calm, well-trained, or not easily startled by sounds they can’t hear.
Do some deaf dog bark more than other dogs?
Not all deaf dogs bark more often than hearing dogs. But their barks might sound different because:
- They can’t hear themselves
- Their barks might be louder
- They might bark for longer
- Their barks might sound higher or lower than normal
This makes people think they’re barking more.
Do some deaf dogs bark less?
Yes. Some deaf dogs actually bark less because they don’t get triggered by everyday noises like doorbells, thunderstorms, or traffic sounds. These dogs may appear calmer or more silent compared to hearing dogs.
Why do deaf dogs bark more than hearing dogs?
Many deaf dog owners report that their dogs bark more often. Here’s why this might happen:
Lack of feedback
Hearing dogs learn to control their barking by hearing themselves and reacting to sounds around them. Deaf dogs don’t have this feedback. They may bark louder or more frequently without realizing it.
Frustration or confusion
Deaf dogs may bark when they feel confused, left out, or can’t understand what’s happening around them. For example, if they see something outside the window but can’t hear what it is, barking may be their only way to respond.
Attention seeking
Since verbal commands don’t work with deaf dogs, they often rely on body language and visual cues. If they feel ignored or want attention, barking might be their way of communicating.
Anxiety or separation stress
Like any dog, a deaf dog may bark when they’re anxious or left alone. But since they miss environmental sounds (like you locking the door), they may get startled or confused, leading to more barking.
How to manage excessive barking in deaf dogs?
Here’s how you can help your deaf dog and reduce unnecessary barking:
Find the reason
Dogs bark for many reasons like boredom, anxiety, pain, or to get attention. Deaf dogs may also bark out of confusion or frustration. If the barking is sudden or new, visit the vet to check for health issues or confirm hearing loss.
Use visual signals
Train your dog using hand signals, flashlights, or vibrations like stomping on the floor or using a vibrating collar (not a shock collar). This helps them understand commands and reduces frustration-based barking.
Teach the “Quiet” signal
You can teach your dog a hand signal for “quiet.” First, wait until they bark. Then, show them a signal (like holding your finger to your lips) and reward them when they stop. Repeat patiently until they connect the signal to silence.
Don’t reinforce the barking
Even though it’s tempting to give attention when your dog barks, doing so can encourage them. Instead, reward them when they’re calm and quiet.
Create a routine
Deaf dogs thrive on consistency. A predictable schedule for walks, play, feeding, and bedtime makes them feel safe and reduces stress-related barking.
Keep them busy
Deaf dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and calm.
- Scent games: Hide treats or use snuffle mats.
- Puzzle toys & lick mats: Keeps their brain and mouth busy.
- Textures: Give toys and objects with different textures to explore.
- Exercise: Daily walks and playtime are a must.
- Music with bass: Some deaf dogs enjoy feeling vibrations from deep sounds.
Sign language basics
Deaf dogs can learn hand signals just like hearing dogs learn verbal commands. You can either make your own simple gestures or use standard signs (like thumbs-up for “good,” palm up for “stay,” finger pointing down for “sit,” or open arms for “come”).
Stay consistent with the signs you choose, and always pair them with rewards to reinforce the meaning. Over time, your dog will watch you closely and respond just like any other well-trained pup.
Handle specific triggers
- Separation anxiety: Leave them with calming toys and slowly train them to be okay alone. You may need expert help for this.
- Territorial barking: Block views out the window and teach them to go to a calm spot.
- Attention-seeking: Don’t react to barking. Only give attention when your dog is quiet.
Deaf dog myths
Deaf dogs are more inclined to bite because they startle more easily.
Any dog can bite. Its hearing ability should be unimportant. Deaf dogs sleep deeply than normal dogs. When a dog is sleeping and gets shocked awake, it can become frightened and bite unintentionally. Every dog should be treated with respect. If your dog is asleep, please give them a gentle pat to wake them up. You’ll never be in that circumstance if you’re not rough or threatening. A deaf dog is no more prone than any other dog to startle or bite.
They must keep deaf dogs on a leash at all times.
I can’t claim this is a complete myth because most people don’t properly train their dogs’ recall to allow them to be off-leash. Because they can’t hear cars or other hazards that may be present, a deaf dog with a poor recall poses a greater safety risk than a hearing dog. It is, however, very possible to train a deaf dog to be off-leash. This relates to teaching the commands “watch me” and “come.” Your deaf dog won’t travel far if they know to look to you for commands.
It’s difficult to train a deaf dog.
Deaf dogs are easier to train than hearing dogs. They can’t hear distraction. You can work freely in your deaf dog will learn that they must look at you for commands, resulting in an incredible focus on you!
Dogs who are deaf do not bark.
I sometimes wish this was a myth, but it isn’t! Deaf dogs do, in fact, bark. Deafness and muteness are two distinct conditions. Most deaf people I’ve encountered are more outspoken than their hearing relatives.
The quality of life for deaf canines is poor.
For dogs, it’s a sad reality that they frown deafness upon. Compared to their hearing peers, deaf canines in shelters have little chance. People believe they cannot live properly, yet this is far from the case. Dogs, like deaf people, live regular lives.
Stopping the bark starts with understanding, not shouting.
Deaf dogs may bark more in certain situations, but with understanding, training, and the right communication, their behavior can be managed just like any other dog. They rely on visual signals, routines, and body language to navigate their world. With patience, consistency, and love, deaf dogs not only learn to thrive, they become loyal, attentive companions who understand their humans in their own special way.
Common questions dog parents ask
Why does my deaf dog bark at nothing?
They may bark in response to things they see but can’t hear, like people walking outside or shadows. It can also be a response to confusion, boredom, or anxiety.
Are deaf dogs more likely to bite?
Not if trained and treated respectfully. Like any dog, they may bite if startled while sleeping. Always wake them gently and avoid surprising them.
Should deaf dogs always be on a leash?
Only if recall isn’t reliable. A well-trained deaf dog can safely be off-leash in secure areas, using visual cues and strong focus on their handler.
How do I wake a deaf dog without scaring them?
Gently touch them, tap the floor to create vibrations, or place a treat near their nose. Avoid sudden or rough contact.