Deafness is not the end of the world, although sad for such a youngster. My 11 year old yellow lab is nearly completely deaf and he gets along fine. I have to be careful when we are out walking in the woods to always remain within his sight or he gets nervous, you can tell. Other than that, he is just like the other dogs (although he has the loudest bark...not sure if it is because he can't hear himself or what!)