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My senior dog seems deaf. Is it normal? When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 12 years and 2 months old | 75 lbs

My dog is almost 13 years old. I think she might be going deaf. I have not noticed an ear infection as I have a basset hound as well and know to check their ears. How can I tell? And do I need to take her to the vet? is it normal? If she's not going deaf then she is just getting to ignore me. She's always right there when I am giving treats. Is there anything I can do?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2019

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is not abnormal for there to be some hearing loss in older pets. Hearing loss can happen as an age related change much the same way it happens in people as they age. Not responding to her name when called or not responding to other auditory cues (bag of treats or can of food being opened in another room) or commands (sit, stay, come), can be signs that she has some hearing deficits. There are a few other causes of hearing loss in pets such as chronic ear infections or a perforated ear drum. I would make sure Tazo is checked out with her veterinarian as well to make sure nothing else is going on that may be causing the hearing loss. I hope this helps!

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