Adult-onset deafness(AOD)
Also known as: Late-onset hearing loss · Spät einsetzende Taubheit · Progressive hearing loss · Early Onset Adult Deafness · Frühzeitige Taubheit · …
Overview
What it is
This condition is a progressive form of hearing loss that affects the auditory system, specifically the sensory cells within the inner ear. Over time, these specialized cells degenerate and lose their ability to transmit sound signals to the brain. Because it is an inherited disorder, this deterioration occurs naturally as the dog matures, even though the outer ear looks completely healthy.
How it presents
Owners typically notice the first signs between three and five years of age, when the dog begins to ignore verbal commands, sleep through loud noises, or fail to react to the doorbell. Over time, this lack of response progresses to complete deafness.
Treatment
While the hearing loss is permanent and cannot be cured, managing the condition is highly successful and generally costs between 150 and 800 EUR for initial veterinary evaluations and training tools. Owners can adapt by teaching their dog hand signals and taking extra safety precautions during walks.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Adult-onset deafness?
This condition is a progressive form of hearing loss that affects the auditory system, specifically the sensory cells within the inner ear. Over time, these specialized cells degenerate and lose their ability to transmit sound signals to the brain. Because it is an inherited disorder, this deterioration occurs naturally as the dog matures, even though the outer ear looks completely healthy.
How is Adult-onset deafness tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Border Collie, Rhodesian Ridgeback.