Dogs Hearing

Question
I've owned a labordor retriver for over 13 years now and it's becoming quite apperant that he has already lost a significant part of his hearing. Is this common for dogs of his age or should I be concerned?    What do you recommend that I do?

Answer
Check his ears to make sure their is no odor and they are clean of wax and hair.  Older dogs very commonly do lose hearing and there is nothing to do to restore hearing.  It is best to use hand signals for commands and be careful when letting his off-leash.