Deafness in English Setter
Learn about Deafness in English Setter. Risk level: medium. Onset: puppy. Hereditary condition. Comprehensive guide to symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
Breed-Specific Risk Profile
| Risk Level | medium |
|---|---|
| Typical Onset | puppy |
| Hereditary | Yes |
| Screening Recommended | Yes |
About Deafness
Congenital sensorineural deafness is associated with white coat color and blue eyes in dogs and cats. It results from degeneration of the stria vascularis in the cochlea during the first few weeks of life. The condition is linked to the piebald (S) and merle (M) genes in dogs and the white (W) gene in cats. It can be unilateral or bilateral.
Category: Neurological/Sensory
Severity: Moderate
Symptoms to Watch For in Your English Setter
- Failure to respond to sounds or name
- Excessive barking
- Difficulty training
- Startling when touched unexpectedly
- Not waking to loud noises
- Unilateral: head tilting toward hearing ear
Causes
Genetic: associated with lack of melanocytes in the stria vascularis of the cochlea. The absence of melanocytes leads to degeneration of the organ of Corti. Linked to coat color genes: merle, piebald, extreme white. Breeds: Dalmatian (30% affected), white Bull Terrier, white cats.
Diagnosis
Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) testing is the gold standard, detecting both unilateral and bilateral deafness. Can be performed from 5 weeks of age. No other test reliably detects unilateral deafness.
Treatment Options
No treatment can restore hearing in congenital sensorineural deafness. Management involves hand signal training, vibration collars for recall, safe fenced environments, and avoiding startling the animal. Cochlear implants are experimental.
Prevention for English Setter
BAER testing all breeding stock in affected breeds. Avoiding breeding two merle dogs together (double merle). Selecting against extreme white in breeding programs. Genetic counseling for breeders.
Prognosis
Deaf animals can live full, happy lives with appropriate management and training. Unilaterally deaf animals function nearly normally. The condition itself is not progressive or painful.
Other Breeds Affected by Deafness
Besides English Setter, these breeds are also predisposed to Deafness:
- Rhodesian Ridgeback (High risk)
- Whippet (High risk)
- Bull Terrier (high risk)
- Australian Cattle Dog (high risk)
- Old English Sheepdog (medium risk)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deafness common in English Setter?
Yes, English Setter has a medium risk for Deafness. This is a hereditary condition in this breed. Typical onset is during the puppy stage.
What are the symptoms of Deafness in English Setter?
Common symptoms of Deafness in English Setter include: Failure to respond to sounds or name, Excessive barking, Difficulty training, Startling when touched unexpectedly, Not waking to loud noises, Unilateral: head tilting toward hearing ear. Watch for these signs and consult your veterinarian promptly.
How is Deafness treated in English Setter?
No treatment can restore hearing in congenital sensorineural deafness. Management involves hand signal training, vibration collars for recall, safe fenced environments, and avoiding startling the animal. Cochlear implants are experimental.
Can Deafness be prevented in English Setter?
BAER testing all breeding stock in affected breeds. Avoiding breeding two merle dogs together (double merle). Selecting against extreme white in breeding programs. Genetic counseling for breeders.
Should I screen my English Setter for Deafness?
Yes, screening is recommended for English Setter given their predisposition to Deafness. Discuss appropriate screening schedules with your veterinarian.