Health Condition

Congenital Sensorineural Deafness

Congenital sensorineural deafness is a hereditary condition causing partial or complete hearing loss in dogs, often associated with coat color genetics.

Detailed Description

This form of deafness is present at birth and results from degeneration of the cochlear hair cells, typically affecting one or both ears. It is commonly linked to pigmentation genes and is diagnosed early in life.

Common Symptoms

Failure to respond to sound
Sleep through loud noises
Difficulty with training

Management Options

Training with visual cues
Environmental management

Frequently Asked Questions

Can congenital deafness be cured?

No, congenital deafness is permanent.

How is deafness diagnosed?

By BAER testing, which is the gold standard.

Is deafness common in all dogs?

No, it is more common in certain breeds and coat colors.

Can deaf dogs live normal lives?

Yes, with adaptations, deaf dogs can live full lives.

Is deafness linked to coat color?

Yes, it is often associated with pigmentation genes.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

Congenital (present at birth; detected by 5–6 weeks)

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

BAER test; Behavioral observation

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Preventative Measures

BAER testing of breeding stock and puppies; Avoid breeding affected dogs

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Related Conditions

Acquired deafness

Affected Breeds

Australian Cattle Dog

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 3/5

Australian Cattle Dogs have a higher than average rate of congenital deafness, often linked to coat color genetics.

Border Collie

Prevalence: 2.5% Severity: 2/5

Deafness is more common in Border Collies with merle or extreme white coat patterns due to pigment gene associations.

Bull Terrier

Prevalence: 20% Severity: 3/5

Bull Terriers, especially white-coated individuals, have a much higher prevalence of congenital deafness than most breeds.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

Prevalence: 15% Severity: 4/5

Catahoula Leopard Dogs have a significantly higher prevalence of congenital deafness compared to most breeds, particularly in merle and excessively white individuals.

English Setter

Prevalence: 12% Severity: 3/5

English Setters have a notably high prevalence of congenital deafness, especially in dogs with extensive white markings due to the piebald gene.

Ibizan Hound

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 3/5

Ibizan Hounds have a higher risk of congenital deafness compared to the general canine population, particularly in dogs with extensive white markings.

Miniature Bull Terrier

Prevalence: 20% Severity: 2/5

Miniature Bull Terriers have a much higher prevalence of congenital deafness than the general canine population, especially in predominantly white dogs.

Old English Sheepdog

Prevalence: 2.5% Severity: 3/5

Old English Sheepdogs have a higher than average risk for congenital deafness, with puppies not responding to noise or commands as an early sign.

Pointer

Prevalence: 2% Severity: 3/5

Deafness is more common in Pointers with a lot of white pigmentation. Early identification allows for appropriate training and management.

Whippet

Prevalence: 1.5% Severity: 3/5

Deafness is more common in Whippets with extensive white markings, though less prevalent than in Dalmatians.

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