Deafness

Inherited deafness in one or both ears is due to the degeneration of sensory inner ear structures within a few weeks of birth.

Deafness occurs in many breeds and is especially common in the Dalmatian. Other breeds with a relatively high incidence include the English Setter, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie and Shetland Sheepdog. There is a strong association of deafness with increased amounts of white in the coat and blue eyes in breeds with merle and piebald coat colouring.

In many other breeds, including the Akita, Cocker Spaniel, Staffordshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Dogo Argentine, English Springer Spaniel, Foxhound, German Shepherd, Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Kuvasz, Maltese Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature and Toy poodle, Papillon, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler, St. Bernard, Scottish Terrier, Siberian Husky, West Highland White Terrier, and the Whippet, deafness is seen less commonly.

Additional Information and Resources:

• Canine Inherited Disorders Database — Deafness
• Dog Breeds with Reported Congenital Deafness

Note: This section of the Canada’s Guide to Dogs website is intended as a source of information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional care. Always consult with your Veterinarian about health related matters.