You are going to use a visual method of deaf dog training. All dogs rely on vision as much if not more than on their hearing. They are excellent at watching body language. You can use your dogs vision as well as their sense of smell and touch.

You will be using hand signals and signs, kind of like you would with a person who is deaf using the American Sign Language. But you must decide which signs you will be using before you begin your training.

You need to have hand signals that are:

1. clear and distinct

2. different from any other hand sign or gesture you have used

3. your dog must be able to see it from a distance

4. be consistent

You will also be using your body language as well as your facial expressions. Have a sign for the word 'yes' or 'good boy'. You will use this sign when you link it to something like a treat, or anything your dog may like. You can use yummy treats as well as toys, games and your dogs favorite things like scratching behind his ears, or a good rubbing. Use the 'yes' sign and immediately reward with a treat. You will want to do this several times making sure your dog understands and shows a reaction to your sign. When you are showing the hand sign, also say the word or words 'yes' or 'good boy' with enthusiasm, and your dog will see your facial expression.

Now that you have a foundation made in deaf dog training, you can begin to train him to do more commands. One that is very important command to teach your dog is 'attention', which you will be commanding him to watch you, giving you his full attention. You will want to have a very distinct hand sign for this. You can do hand signals such as a sweeping motion that is similar to that of the ASL finger spelling.

Deaf dog training will be challenging, but more than that, it will be very rewarding. You will open up a door of communication for you and your dog, and his silent world will no longer be so silent.