Thumbs-up game for deaf dogs for dogs: how to play

Teach a visual marker, a thumbs up, that means 'yes, treat coming'. Then use it to play any training game in silence.

You'll need

treats
a small torch or vibration collar with tone only (optional, for getting attention)

Sit in front of your dog in a quiet, well-lit room.

Show a thumbs up, then give a treat right after. Repeat 10 times.
Your dog will start to perk up when they see the thumb. Now it's a marker.
Teach a 'look at me' signal: touch your dog gently on the shoulder or flash a light; when they look, thumbs up and treat.
Use the thumbs up to teach sit with a lure. Flat palm becomes the sit signal.
Play the name game with the touch signal instead of a name.
Practise in different rooms and outside on a leash.

Make it easier: Stand close and keep sessions short.
Make it harder: Use the thumbs up from across the room, or teach new hand signals for down, come and wait.

Ears perk, tail wags and eyes lock on your hand.

Startling at touch, or avoiding you. Use softer contact and a light instead.

Always on leash or in a fenced area outside: a deaf dog can't hear a recall or traffic.
Wake a sleeping deaf dog gently, by touching the bed or blowing softly, to avoid startling.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

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