So … Are all white dogs deaf?
The ability to listen is possible thanks to a special layer of cells inside the inner ear. This layer of cells, and the cells that determine the color of a dog’s hair, come from the same source of stem cells. Without this stem cell, the dog’s body will not be able to produce this specialized layer of auditory cells and will likely have a white coloration.
Dogs that carry the piebald gene (affects the distribution and amount of white color) are often affected by deafness. Piebaldism is the result of the absence of melanocytes, the cells that create the pigment melanin. These melanocytes are the part of a dog’s DNA that determines coloration, such as brown or black hair, or blue or brown eyes (blue eyes are not a true eye color, but result from a lack of pigment that produces color inside the iris). When a dog is born without melanocytes, the result is a predominantly white coat (and often blue eyes). Breeds commonly affected by the piebald gene include Bull Terriers, Huskies, Boxers, English Setters, and Dalmatians.
Congenital deafness is also linked to the merlé gene, which causes a dog to have mottled fur and blue eyes. Breeds commonly affected by the merlé gene include Sheepdogs, Teckels, Corgis, and Border Collies.
Why are white dogs more prone to deafness?
Dogs that carry the piebald gene (affects the distribution and amount of white color) are often affected by deafness. Piebaldism is the result of the absence of melanocytes, the cells that create the pigment melanin.
Which breed is it common to find deaf dogs in?
Some of the most commonly affected breeds are Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, Australian Cattle Dogs, English Setters, English Cocker Spaniels, Boston Terriers, and Parson Russell Terriers. Congenital deafness has been found in over 80 different breeds, but it may be found in any breed.