Impaired Hearing in Older Dogs

Total deafness also occurs, often quite rapidly over a six-month period. Owners often misinterpret true hearing loss with "selective hearing," an older dog's realization that it does not always have to do what it is told!

Treatment 
Like a dog with impaired eyesight, dogs with impaired hearing are more at risk from physical injury. Be alert to dangers. Use the leash more frequently, perhaps every trip outside.

You can teach hand signals to totally deaf dogs - even older dogs can be good learners. Also refer to Ears and hearing.

Advice
Wax can build up quickly in the ears of an elderly dog, so pay attention to this when grooming and remove if necessary.