Outgoing Deaf Heeler Proves Disability Can't Silence His Sass

When a dog is born without the ability to hear, we often attribute human emotions to the condition. And it’s sometimes believed that these dogs might be calmer than others because of this disability. However, it doesn’t stop them from having fun like any other dog.

In fact, with their other senses heightened, they might have an even better time! That is the case for this free-spirited, deaf Blue Heeler.

Watch how this charming troublemaker lives his best life in a video from August 9:

Although Atlas (@myislandheelers) might not hear, his lively Cattle Dog personality makes up for what he lacks. His mom reveals many people think that his disability makes him calm, but nothing could be further from the truth. This spirited boy knows how to bring chaos, whether carrying a hula hoop or a ball. In fact, with the hoop in his mouth, it appeared as though he was intentionally trying to wrangle his siblings like a cowboy. He left little doubt about his intentions when whacking them on the head with the toys. LOL! Lucky for him, his canine siblings are good-natured and let him get away with his mischief. If he tried his antics with my female Frenchie mix, she’d have him running for the hills.

Related: Blue Heeler Tasting Ice Cream for First Time Has a Near Out-of-Body Experience

Living with Deaf Dogs

Dogs with hearing impairment can lead fulfilling and joyful lives. Rather than using voice commands, training them using hand signals and other visual cues is crucial. It’s also important not to startle them when they’re sleeping or unable to see you approaching, so experts recommend waving your hands or stomping to alert them to your presence. Deaf dogs and their parents form strong bonds over time, often developing their own non-verbal communication methods.

People were not surprised by this silly dog’s shenanigans. Viewer @mintymortal shared, “My brother’s heeler is deaf, and she pretends she can’t see you signing at her when she doesn’t want to do what you’re telling her to do.” Just like our dogs, who do not listen when they hear our commands. Viewer @rusty.theredheeler remarked, “Heelers are wild. Mine doesn’t listen even though he can hear!” That seems to be a fairly common condition among all breeds. Viewer @j_henna_design responded, “I love the way the other dogs, getting pummeled with the flat ball, just squint and brace like -That’s... uh, just how he, oof, communicates. It’s fine.” LOL! They were all exceptionally well-mannered while taking his many whacks.

Whether dogs have hearing or not, they all have a unique personality. No matter what that may be, they always make our days better.