Why Do Dogs Howl?

Regardless of the breed, age, and temperament, all dogs howl, so it’s natural. Some dogs howl a lot. Some howl a little. Moreover, some howl louder than others. Now the question is why do dogs make this awful, soulful, and mournful sound? In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons why do dogs howl?

Reasons Why Do Dogs Howl
Howling is the vocal communication form that dogs use. They howl to announce their presence, to attract attention, and to make contact with others. Moreover, some dogs howl in response to emergency sirens, musical instruments, or alarming sounds. You need to identify problems when your dog start excessive howling. Some common reasons for excessive howling are:
1. Separation Anxiety
It mostly happens when you leave your dog unattended for an extended period of time. Some other symptoms that accompany separation anxiety are pacing, digging, scratching, and destruction.
2. Medical Issues
Dogs howl when they’re sick or get hurt. It is an indicator that something is wrong with them. When your dog starts howling in a shrieking manner, check for visible injuries. If you spot any health problems, take your pet to the vet immediately.
3. High-Pitched Sounds
Dogs start howling when they listen to emergency sirens. They often howl in response to some kind of trigger. They will howl excessively when there is a sound and stops as the sound stops. You can’t do much about it.
4. Vocal Communication
Dogs use this way to communicate with their separated pack members. They howl to announce their presence and current location to other dogs. When they howl, they can find each other.
5. Seeking Attention
Dogs love to get attention. When they get nervous or lack physical exercise, they howl to get your attention. When you don’t fulfill their needs, it can cause behavioral problems.
6. Excitement and Success
When dogs achieve something, they love to be praised. When the owner didn’t notice their success or achievement, they start howling. It’s common with hunting dogs when they succeed in their hunt; they usually howl. They want to communicate their success with their owners. When owners appreciate them, they stop howling.
7. Feeling Annoyed or Upset
When your dogs feel sad or upset, they start howling. Consistent music sound annoys them. So, keep your dogs away from these sounds.
How to Reduce Excessive Howling?
You can eliminate howls because it’s natural, but you can take steps to reduce this. For example:
• Don’t leave them alone for a long time.
• Look for their physical needs.
• Carefully examine their health issues.
• Frequent visits to the vet can help maintain good health.
• Appreciate your dog whenever they do something extraordinary.
• Spend time with your dog when they’re upset or annoyed.
• Try to keep your dogs in a calm place where the distractions are minimum.
So, now you have got the answer to why do dogs bowl. First of all, you need to understand the reasons for howls. Moreover, we have shared tips to overcome excessive howls.