Ernie is short for either Ernest Hemmingway or Ernesto de la Cruz This loving dog is a super mutt: a mix of Golden Retriever, Chow Chow, Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd. Ernie is also deaf! A rescue group received Ernie and his brother as strays and put them in their therapy dog training program that prepares canines to b service dogs for military veterans with PTSD. When they discovered his lack of hearing, they taught Ernie sign language and put him up for adoption. They also taught sign language to his lucky new owners. Ernie loves to cuddle, play outside, sleep in the sun and keep a close eye on his family. His owners say he is a joy and that having a deaf dog is an unexpected blessing. He is an attentive listener in his own way and seems to be smiling at you.