Japan tech firm helps deaf dogs with vibration-led audio aid

Innovative Collar Helps Deaf Dogs Hear

Japan’s thriving ‘pet tech’ sector is fighting age-related hearing loss in dogs with an innovative solution. Audio pioneer Solid Sonic has developed the Vibone Nezu Pet, a collar-type bone conduction device that enables deaf pets to hear their owners again.

Unlike conventional hearing aids that require custom ear molds, this non-invasive device bypasses damaged eardrums entirely. It converts the owner’s voice into vibrations transmitted through the neck to the inner ear. A built-in smart microphone activates only when the pet’s name is detected, reducing sensory overload while restoring essential communication between ageing dogs and their owners.

Footage captured on Saturday shows a trial event held in Osaka, showcasing the innovations of Solid Sonic Co Ltd, which is based in Kobe City.

Growing Need For Pet Hearing Technology

The Vibone Nezu Pet addresses the challenges faced by owners as ageing pets become less responsive to sound. Solid Sonic CEO Takahiro Kubo said the device was created amid increasing demand for such technology.

“There are 6.84 million pet dogs in Japan, and 52 per cent of them are senior dogs, aged seven or older. Of those 52 per cent, approximately 30 per cent suffer from hearing loss, which amounts to about 1.06 million dogs in Japan,” he explained.

“This microphone records the owner’s voice. When you say, for example, “Yuzu,” the microphone will only activate when the voice waveform matches the recorded voice. Then, when it activates, both vibration and bone conduction sound vibrations are generated,” Kubo explained the device’s functionality. “The vibration will automatically switch off after 20 seconds. This is because continuous vibration can be tiring for your dog.”

Training Dogs To Respond

Dog trainer Manabu Hatanaka, CEO of HeyDogs Co Ltd, noted the importance of positive reinforcement.

“When the dog reacts to the vibrations, you give them treats. You also praise them for doing something good <…> By gradually and steadily building this association, you create a connection and relationship between the owner and the dog,” he said.

“My dog looks cheerful. While he doesn’t always recognise my face anymore, it seems like he’s smiling, which is wonderful,” a dog owner shared, after trying out the device on her pet.

Strengthening The Human-Animal Bond

By restoring a vital channel of communication between dogs and their owners, the device reflects a broader shift toward more attentive, technology-driven pet care, offering renewed quality of life for ageing animals and strengthening the human-animal bond.