Hello Dog Owners:
Long before I was diagnosed I raised and showed Golden Retriever canines professionally.
I got to the point with the fatigue where I couldn't even go up a slight hill with a pack of dogs. My friend who also showed in obedience would bring her GR's over and we would hike them daily. I remember not knowing why I couldn't make it up an incline in a short while. (thinking I had fibromyalgia) I had to psychologically prepare myself up for each step. It was embarrassing when my friend ran up the mountain with the whole pack, effortlessly. I was dragging with no stamina. It was a grueling time along with many other horrific and dangerous symptoms, I experienced.
Yes, dogs are very smart and in many cases, much smarter than humans ever thought they could be. Gain insight from your dogs and they will learn from you, as well.
Dogs are pack animals anyway and now we humans are detached with our electronic devices. Please remember your dogs are alive and interaction will enhance the canine performance and trust.
Good luck with your team pal dogs and tell us your deafness stories so, we may learn from all of you on this thread, as well.
Remember, the more exercise your dog gets, the happier and better performance you'll receive in return. It's very important to let your animal be a dog for a while during the day. Imagine what it's like to be them and what we put them through.
Dogs deserve "their lifestyle," too.
Thank-you and good luck,
Palace