Expert: Jannie Balliett - 6/17/2011

Question
Hi, I was recently given an 8 week old white boxer.  He is absolutely adorable, but I've read that white boxer have a genetic tendency to have a visual or hearing impairment.  I've tried to squeak toys and clap to see if I get a response from our new pet, but at this point I'm not 100% sure that he can hear.

Would you have any suggestions to determine what I can do at home to see if he can hear?  I plan on taking him to the vet soon for his second dose of shots, and I'm sure they might be able to tell me then.  However, I wondered if there is something I can do at home to get a reaction out of him.  I know he can definitely see, but I'm not entirely sure that he can hear.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks much!

Answer
Of course , tell your vet and have his hearing checked for sure.

The only thing I can think of is when he is sleeping- get a pot and a heavy utility spoon (or something- maybe the pot lid) and get close to him without waking him and bang it to see if it wakes and startles him.

Once your vet has checked his hearing- if he is diagnosed as deaf- email me at: jannieballiett@yahoo.com

I will give you links to sign language and training for deaf dogs.