Meet Bruno, the Deaf Dog Who Understands Sign Language

When Bruno knows it’s time to go for a walk, his whole body lights up. His tail starts wagging, he darts across the house, and excited barks fill the room. There’s just one difference between Bruno and most dogs. He can’t hear a single word.

Instead of saying “walk,” Bruno’s parents, Skye and Daniel Tibbetts, sign it to him.

Skye and Daniel didn’t know Bruno was deaf when they adopted him. After a few days at home, they noticed something was different. Bruno didn’t respond to his name or react to sounds around him.

At first, they wondered if it was a language barrier. Bruno had been found abandoned on the streets of Spain, so they even tried speaking Spanish to him. When that didn’t work, a visit to the vet confirmed their suspicions. Bruno was deaf.

“We have no idea if he was born deaf,” Skye said. “But he did have a bad ear infection when we got him.”

Rather than seeing Bruno’s deafness as a limitation, the Tibbettses saw an opportunity to connect with him in a new way. Both of Daniel’s parents are deaf, so the couple was already fluent in sign language. Teaching Bruno to understand signs felt like a natural next step.

Bruno took to sign language quickly. Using treats and positive reinforcement, Skye began teaching him simple commands. Food motivation helped keep his focus strong, and within just a few months, Bruno had mastered several signs.

In addition to knowing the sign for “walk,” Bruno understands “give paw,” “stay,” “lie down,” “up,” “roll over,” “spin,” and even “play dead.”

Because Bruno relies on touch and eye contact to communicate, he’s become especially affectionate. Skye describes him as loving, goofy, and eager for attention from just about anyone he meets.

“He’s clumsy, and he’ll look for attention from anyone,” she said.

But Bruno wasn’t always this confident and carefree. When he was first rescued, he struggled with fear and uncertainty. He knocked over bins, growled, and guarded food. What he needed most was patience, understanding, and a sense of safety.

Bruno’s journey from a scared, abandoned dog to a confident, beloved companion is a testament to what love and communication can do. He has been by Skye and Daniel’s side through major life moments and even served as the ring bearer at their wedding.

“Bruno is a massive part of our lives,” Skye said. “Everyone deserves to experience the loyalty and support of a good dog.”

Bruno’s story is a beautiful reminder that connection doesn’t depend on sound. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple sign, a little patience, and a lot of love.