Owning a properly trained helper dog can transform the life of a deaf person. The dog can enable the person to maintain her independence, and can help protect her from harm. But not every dog is cut-out for the working life. The temperament of the dog is very important. A dog that shows aggression, or is too boisterous will not be suitable. Once a good candidate is found, extensive and correct conditioning is then required.
Instructions
Socialize the dog. Spend time with it, and get it used to people. A hearing ear dog is comfortable around humans, and behaves in a calm and friendly way; regardless of where it is, and what kind of distractions happen to be nearby. The dog should be able to live with humans without displaying aggressive traits; such as biting, excessive barking or destructiveness.
Teach the dog to respond to a number of commands, such as "sit," "heel" and "come" -- by repeating these commands and praising and rewarding the dog when it responds appropriately.
Train the dog to respond to specific sounds. A hearing ear dog should alert their owner to noises such as a doorbell, a baby crying, or a ringing telephone.
Use operant conditioning, where a treat is given each time the dog responds in the appropriate way. The dog should touch the owner gently, when the doorbell chimes or the phone rings . The dog then leads the person to the source of the sound. If the fire or smoke alarm sounds, the dog should put itself down on the floor. Break these into small steps. Reward and praise the dog each time it reacts correctly.
Initiate a home placement. Ideally, the new owner and the dog will bond. Continue the operant conditioning training -- aiming for 90 percent response from the dog -- at "first-ask". The dog should respond within 15 seconds of the beginning of the sound.
Continue training the dog in places such as streets, restaurants, and stores. Most public places allow helper animals; provided they have an orange collar and leash. The owner must also carry a laminated identity card, explaining that this is an assistance dog.