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Many owners are surprised to discover that their dogs can adapt remarkably well to vision loss. Whether they lose their vision gradually or suddenly, many dogs can continue to do many of the same activities and live a full, happy life.
In This Article
Blind dogs can continue to train, play, compete in dog sports, go hiking, and more. However, this is only possible if you understand how to support your dog through this adjustment and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Blind dogs can still live full, active lives with the right support and continued activity.
- Consistent routines and a stable home environment help your dog adjust and stay safe.
- Sound, scent, and touch cues are essential for training, play, and communication.
What Causes Blindness in Dogs?
Canine blindness and loss of vision can be caused by a variety of conditions. Sometimes blindness occurs naturally with age. For other dogs, it comes on quickly when they’re still quite young.
Common blindness-causing conditions include canine cataracts and canine glaucoma, as well as Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, or SARDS. As the name implies, dogs with SARDS lose their vision quickly instead of it slowly deteriorating over time.
If your dog begins bumping into things or seems disoriented and you suspect they’re losing vision, make an appointment with your veterinarian right away. In addition to diagnosing your dog’s vision issues, the vet may refer you to a canine ophthalmology specialist.
How to Keep Blind Dogs Safe
For a blind dog, maintaining routines as much as possible can help them adjust. Keep your furniture in the same spots, so it’s easier for your dog navigate your home. When you redecorate or bring your dog to a new place, take them carefully around the area to show them any obstacles. Because your dog can’t see, make sure that any potential dangers (such as swimming pools or staircases) are blocked off with fences or dog gates to prevent falls.
If you find your dog bumping into things frequently, talk with your vet or canine ophthalmology specialist. They may recommend a dog bumper that can help protect your dog’s face as they walk around.
Many blind dogs are able to happily return to activities they enjoyed before losing vision. So, where possible, don’t stop engaging in activities that your dog has always loved. However, make sure to always keep blind dogs on leash so you can prevent them from walking into things or getting hurt.
It’s also essential to inform people who interact with your dog — such as groomers and dog walkers — about your dog’s condition. Your dog could easily be startled if approached without warning. Giving anyone who interacts with your dog a heads-up helps keep everyone calm and safe. You can also purchase leash and collar wraps that say “blind dog” to communicate to others that your dog is visually impaired.
Playing With a Blind Dog
Just because a dog can’t see doesn’t mean they don’t want to play! Blind dogs can utilize their other senses to compensate for a lack of sight. Opt for dog toys that squeak, rattle, and make noise when they move, so that your dog will be able to find them.
Training a Blind Dog
Even for experienced owners, it can be shocking to see how well most dogs adjust to going blind. Blindness doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your entire training routine. You may just need to make some shifts in how you cue certain behaviors. While your blind dog will be unable to respond to visual signals, verbal cues can work well to help them maintain existing skills and learn new ones.
Luring your dog with training treats and then incorporating physical cues can work well with blind dogs. For example, try a shoulder touch to cue a sit or a back touch to cue a down. Keeping up regular physical and mental exercise with blind dogs is important. Training continues to build self-confidence, as well, which is particularly important for dogs with impaired vision.
Blind Dogs and Dog Sports
AKC Scent Work is an ideal outlet for blind dogs because they’re relying on their sense of smell to search for odor. Plus, this sport can build confidence in blind dogs and be an excellent way for them to channel their energy. Other dog sports blind dogs can participate in include:
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program
- AKC Trick Dog competitions
- Therapy dog work
Discovering that your dog has become blind might be overwhelming or even devastating at first, but it’s important to recognize that dogs who go blind can live enriched lives. With some adjustments and a little extra help from us to keep them safe, many blind dogs continue to thrive.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.