Toys for Deaf and Blind Dogs

Dogs with hearing and sight impairments need just as much stimulation and playtime as dogs with perfect vision and hearing. Oakland Veterinary Referral Services (OVRS) is here with some great ideas for toys for deaf and blind dogs so you can keep your canine engaged and healthy:

Toys for Blind Dogs

When a dog loses one sense, he relies more on the others to interact with his surroundings. Whether your dog was born blind or is losing her eyesight as she ages, you want to provide her with toys that encourage her to use these other senses while letting loose and having some fun. These are great toys for blind dogs:

• Scented toys: toys like balls or stuffed animals that come with a particular scent are great options for dogs with visual impairments. The toy’s unique odor makes it easy for your blind dog to find, which means he can always grab it when he’s feeling playful. 
• Toys with sounds: Toys with squeakers or other sounds are also great options for dogs who cannot see. You might have to start playing the sound so your dog can find the toy, but once she finds it, she will definitely be entertained.
• Interactive mats: There are a variety of interactive mats that are great options for visually-impaired dogs. You can hide treats inside to encourage your pup to use his nose to find them. The soft textures of the mat keep your dog comfortable as he flexes his mental muscles. 
• Toys with multiple textures: Multi-textured toys are also great options for blind dogs, as they are slightly more exciting to feel than toys with one texture. 

Toys for Deaf Dogs

While hearing-impaired dogs might have different limitations than blind dogs, there are still plenty of fun and helpful toys that can add some joy to their lives. Here are some great options for toys for deaf dogs to keep them entertained for hours:

• Toys with a tactile experience: Just like blind dogs, deaf dogs rely on their other senses to make up for the one they are lacking, so you want to choose toys that enhance these other senses. Toys with multiple textures (like something soft and something fun to chew) give your pup a tactile experience while playing to keep him fully engaged.
• Puzzle toys: Toys with interactive elements like puzzles are great options for any kind of dog, but they are especially helpful for a hearing-impaired pup. Puzzle toys keep your dog mentally stimulated and encourage her to make the most of her other senses to solve the problem in front of her.
• Visually-stimulating toys: Toys with bright colors or lights are extra fun for deaf dogs, and can provide hours of fun for your favorite canine. Keeping your dog stimulated with a toy like this can help decrease his anxiety and keep him calmer throughout the day.
• Comforting toys: Since your deaf dog can’t hear your soothing voice when she needs to be comforted, you might want to invest in some plush toys that make your pup feel safe when she might be a little nervous.

We hope our ideas for toys for blind and deaf dogs help you keep your dog happy and entertained. If you need any advice on how to best care for a visually or hearing-impaired dog, OVRS is here for you. To learn more about our veterinary services or to get some advice for your pet, call (248) 334-6877.