Training a dog is easy when the dog can hear you. It becomes a little challenging when the dog suffers deafness for one reason or another. However, living with a deaf dog is just the same as with a normal dog; it all depends on the kind of treatment you give the dog. It is actually very possible to train a deaf dog. It all takes strategizing and finding out what works for a dog so it understands the commands you are giving just fine.
Get the attention of the dog
There is absolutely no way you will manage to train the dog without getting its attention first. Calling the dog's name is easy to get attention for hearing dogs. You will have to come up with ways through which you can attract its attention effectively. To have a deaf dog look at you, you can stamp your foot to have the vibrations on the floor to turn its attention to you. Another great way is signaling the dog using a flashlight. Turn on and off the light and treat the dog when it turns when the light is on. A vibrating electronic collar can also work out great. It is different from one that shocks the dog during training. This kind of collar will simply vibrate on a press of a button to train the dog to look at you.
Use hand signals
Now that you have already come up with ways of getting the attention of your dog, the next thing is to start with the training. Hand signals in this case will be effective. Basic commands of obedience can be done using hand signals. You can use the standard signals or come up with your own to make sure the dog understands you perfectly.
Use sign language
The signs are easy when they are directly connected with the action. Each sign you use should mean something and you must also ensure that you are consistent with the signs. Learning simple words in sign language will help you out great as long as you can connect them with the intended action. For instance, when you signal a dog to walk, make sure you walk too and make it walk with you. Using sign language every day will bear fruits in the long run.
Reward good behavior with treats
This is a simple way of letting the dog understand what is right and what is wrong. You can incorporate the treats with facial expressions to let the dog know you are happy with his behavior. You can then take away the treats when the dog understands most of your commands so he does not expect anything in return every time for good behavior.
Make it comfortable with getting touched
Deaf dogs can find touch startling, especially when they are not aware of your presence and this can lead to snarling or snapping. Practicing touching is important for a deaf dog since it gets to learn that a touch from behind does not always mean something bad will happen to it.