How to Test Your Dog’s Vision

The test you are about to read about should not be conducted without a trained professional. Since I am a trained professional, I qualify to assist you. I witnessed this exact test on Lassie with great success. I will first give you some background information. . .

Moby, is a unique blend of Maltese, Yorkie, and Shih Tzu. He is mostly what I’d call a mess. His nickname is The Captain. He is (almost) the smallest member of the crew and works diligently to keep every one in order.

The cats also know him for his high-ranking position and have the utmost respect for his authority and watchful eye, and I do mean eye as a singular. Moby is partially blind.

At about one year of age, Moby lost sight in one eye and I’m quite certain he only sees partially out of his “good” eye. That is part of the reason he is always on guard. He lives in the land of giants, and while he seems to be protecting every one else, I get that he’s afraid of being smashed and has to make enough noise and movement to stay out of the way and to appear large.

I have been checking his ability to see by consistently testing his vision. This is the test: I hold two fingers up in front of his face and ask, “Moby, how many fingers am I holding up?” He always fails. Since he doesn’t answer at all, I’m beginning to assume that he is totally blind or also deaf. That will be the next test.

If your dog, responds with the correct answer, “two”, then give him a treat and ask if he can now write the number in the sand. Almost all dogs fail this test.