Two dog parents have warmed the hearts of the internet with their unique and thoughtful way of communicating with their deaf pooches.
James Coburn (@make.life.happen) has gone viral after sharing a sweet video demonstrating how he lets his beloved pups know he’s home: by turning the lights on and off to create a flashing effect.
The heartwarming footage of the dogs bounding down the stairs has already racked up 25,400 likes and 141,600 views.
In his caption, Coburn makes a heartfelt plea: “They’re so capable, only people who doubt them hold them back. Please rescue,” urging his followers to consider adopting deaf dogs.
As the two hounds joyfully run toward their dad, the video continues to deliver even more cuteness. Coburn uses hand gestures to guide the dogs to their mom as she enters through the door. “Praise with hand signals is so important,” he explains in text overlaid on the video, underscoring the importance of non-verbal communication for deaf dogs.
Coburn has also taken the time to teach his pups several useful sign language commands, including how to recognize “I love you,” “good boy/girl,” “mom,” and “go get her.”
Adopting a deaf dog is not without its challenges, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
As explained to Deaf Dogs Rock, deaf dogs are just as trainable and loving as hearing dogs, and they thrive in homes that offer them patience, care, and consistency. For those considering adopting, it’s essential to understand that a bit of extra effort—like visual cues and physical touch—can make all the difference.
Teaching deaf dogs sign language is easier than you might think. Dogs are naturally intuitive and can pick up on hand signals with repetition and reinforcement.
According to WagWalking, many deaf dogs can learn key commands through consistent training, making communication both fun and fulfilling for pets and owners alike.
Stock image of dogs running down stairs The dog dad has cleverly found a way to alert his dogs when he is home.
Przemysław Iciak/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Viewers couldn’t help but gush over the touching bond Coburn shares with his pups.
“Omg the little face at the end. They are beautiful,” commented one user.
“Dogs know sign language?? This is so precious!!!” wrote Chimera, stunned by the revelation.
“Look how they are happy when you return home, my dogs are always like that, they understand whatever I tell them,” shared Mariam, drawing a sweet connection to her own pets.
“All dogs deserve this kind of love,” another viewer concluded, summing up the sentiments of many.
Newsweek reached out to Coburn for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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