How can I tell if my dog is losing their hearing?

Early signs of hearing loss often include a lack of response to everyday sounds, such as the doorbell, the crinkle of a treat bag, or their name being called. You might also notice your dog sleeping more soundly or being easily startled when touched while resting.

Can vision loss in dogs be reversed?

It depends entirely on the cause. While age-related changes are often permanent, conditions like certain cataracts can be surgically corrected by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Other issues, such as glaucoma, require urgent medical intervention to manage pain and prevent further loss, so a vet check-up is essential.

Is it safe to exercise a dog with sensory loss?

Absolutely! Exercise is vital for their mental and physical health, and they will still thoroughly enjoy sniffing around the neighbourhood! However, it is best to keep them on a lead or long line for safety. Using a secure harness rather than a collar allows you to guide them gently with subtle "touch cues" through the lead without putting pressure on their neck.

Why does my dog seem more anxious since losing their sight?

Dogs rely on their senses to feel safe in their surroundings. When one sense is diminished, the world can feel unpredictable, leading to increased clinginess or pacing. Using pheromone diffusers, calming supplements, and maintaining a consistent furniture layout can help rebuild their confidence.

How do I play with a dog who can't see or hear well?

Focus on their nose! Scent-based games are wonderful for sensory-impaired dogs. You can use high-value treats in a snuffle mat or play "find it" with scented toys. For dogs with vision loss, toys that make distinct sounds (like bells or crinkly textures) are also excellent for interactive play.

Last Updated: 20/01/2026

Caring for a Dog with Vision or Hearing Loss: A Vet's Guide

Is your dog losing their sight or hearing? While sensory loss can be daunting, most dogs adapt beautifully with the right support. Explore expert veterinary advice on home modifications, enrichment, and anxiety aids to help your best friend thrive.

Author: Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc

Reading Time: 5 minutes - short read

Watching your best friend navigate the world becomes a little different when their sight or hearing begins to fade. Whether these changes are a gradual part of the golden years or occur suddenly due to an underlying health condition, it is naturally a period of adjustment for both of you. The good news? Dogs are incredibly resilient and rely heavily on their powerful sense of smell to map out their environment. With a few thoughtful changes to your home routine and some extra TLC, your pup can continue to lead a joyful, tail-wagging life.

What is sensory loss in dogs?

Sensory loss occurs when a dog loses its ability to hear or see. Dogs will commonly only lose one sense although in some cases (particularly in ageing animals) they can lose both the ability to see and hear.

Common causes of hearing and vision loss

Hearing

The most common cause of hearing loss in dogs is age-related degeneration of the nerves and hair cells in the inner ear, just like in people. Unfortunately this type of hearing loss is irreversible.

Other potential causes of hearing loss include blockages in the ear canal (e.g from excessive wax, a foreign body, or a growth). It's always important to have a check up with your vet when you see any changes in your dog's senses, as some causes are treatable.

Vision

Vision loss can also have a number of causes such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts. Glaucoma is a painful condition and if treated early, vision can be saved. Some cataracts are also able to be treated surgically by an eye vet to restore vision. Your vet will be able to guide you on treatment options.

Tips for managing sensory loss at home

Adapting your home for a pet with sensory loss is all about creating a predictable, "navigable" map that builds their confidence, providing toys they can still derive entertainment from, and addressing any anxiety that they may be facing. Since they can no longer rely on clear sight or sharp hearing, they will turn to their whiskers, paws, and nose to understand their surroundings. By making a few small, intentional adjustments to your daily routine and layout, you can help your dog feel secure and independent, ensuring they move through their space without fear or frustration.

Simple environmental modifications

It's important to support our dogs as much as we can when they lose their senses. Dogs will often rely on their other senses much more heavily when one is lost.

Keeping the environment as consistent as possible will make it much easier for your pup to navigate their way around their home, particularly in cases of vision loss. Dogs will very quickly learn where everything is located and if something is left in the wrong place or furniture is moved it can make things harder for them.
Block off dangerous areas and stairs with pet gates.
Invest in a comfy bed and keep it in one area of the house. This can be a safe spot for your pup to retire to.
Always keep dogs with sensory loss on the lead when walking.
Invest in a comfortable and secure harness to help you guide them in the right direction gently without having to pull on their collar.

For help in choosing the right supplies, read through:

Best enrichment for sensory-impaired dogs

When one sense is lost the others become more heightened. Dogs already rely heavily on their sense of smell and therefore toys which are scented are a great idea. For dogs with vision loss, but not hearing loss, crinkle and squeaky toys can be great fun!

Feeding your dog with a snuffle mat means they will have to use their sense of smell and sense of touch - this helps to make mealtimes much more enjoyable.

Supporting an anxious pet during transition

Sensory loss can be scary for pets and cause them to feel a little anxious whilst adjusting. There are a number of products available which can help to reduce your dog's anxiety and help make the transition a little smoother.

FAQs

Sensory loss doesn't mean a lower quality of life; it simply means finding new ways to communicate and explore. By keeping their environment consistent and leaning into their other senses - like smell and touch - you can provide the security they need to stay confident. With a little patience and the right supportive tools, your loyal companion will continue to enjoy every walk, nap, and treat-time by your side.

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History

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Tue 20 Jan 2026

Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)

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About the Author

Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc

Contributing Author, BVSc

Dr Samantha works as a companion animal veterinarian in Melbourne. Graduated from Massey University in New Zealand in 2015. I have worked in NZ, across the UK and in Australia. Special interests include wildlife and senior pet medicine.