Dogs have a unique way of expressing themselves, and howling is one of their most distinctive vocalizations. But what does it mean when a dog howls? Is it a sign of happiness, sadness, or something else entirely?
While it can be endearing, perplexing, or even annoying, understanding the reasons behind why dogs howl can provide valuable insights into their behavior and emotional state. If you’re wondering “Why is my dog howling?”, here are some potential causes and what you can do to address the behavior.
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Dogs howl as a natural way of communicating with humans and other animals. It’s an instinctive, complex behavior rooted in the canine’s evolutionary history that serves various purposes.
A few of the most common reasons why dogs howl include:
One of the most intriguing phenomena around canine vocalization is their reaction to sirens. Why would a dog howl in response?
One possibility is that dogs may mistake the siren for the howl of another dog , triggering an instinctual response to answer the call. This could be especially true if the siren has a mournful or wailing quality to it, mimicking the sound of a dog in the distance. Your dog, being a social pack animal, may feel compelled to respond, as if to say, "I'm here, I hear you."
Another theory is that dogs may perceive sirens as a potential threat , triggering a defensive response. By howling, your dog may be trying to alert you to the danger they sense. If the siren passes and the "threat" moves away, your dog may feel that their vocalization was successful in chasing it off, reinforcing the behavior.
The leading theory behind dogs howling at night is that stems from their nocturnal instincts. Wolves are nocturnal hunters who often howl at night because it's easier for them to hear each other, making it an ideal time to communicate with other pack members in the area. Therefore, your dog might be:
Dogs may howl in their sleep because they are experiencing dreams. During the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep, their brains are active, and they might be dreaming about scenarios that elicit howling, such as chasing or communicating with other dogs. This behavior is natural and typically not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other signs of distress.
It's important to note that not all dogs will howl back when you howl. Some dogs might be indifferent to your attempts, while others might find it annoying or even frightening. It ultimately depends on your dog's individual personality, breed, and past experiences.
If your dog seems to enjoy howling along with you, feel free to engage in this playful interaction. It can be a fun way to bond with your furry friend and tap into their natural instincts. However, if your dog seems distressed or uncomfortable, it's best to stop and avoid triggering this behavior.
Your dog may be experiencing separation anxiety upon your departure. If they’ve had negative experiences alone in the past, then it may be triggering fear or insecurity.
With less extreme behavioral disorders, your dog may just be lonely or bored and signaling their need for stimulation and companionship.
Finally, some dogs may howl to announce their presence and warn off potential intruders if they feel like they are guarding the home.
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First, make sure you’re following the best crate training practices for your dog.
If you suspect separation anxiety might be causing your dog to howl in its crate, here’s how you can address it:
Another effective strategy to stop dogs howling in crates is to provide enrichment, especially if they may be in there for an extended period of time.
If you plan to crate your dog for several hours, ensure their basic needs are met to prevent them from barking, howling, and suffering while you’re away. They should be given the chance to relieve themselves before crating. Always provide fresh water and, if appropriate, a meal before crating.
If none of these strategies are working, you might consider crate alternatives, such as:
If your dog is normally quiet and suddenly starts howling, it could be a big, red flag that something is wrong. Check for immediate signs of illness or injury by looking for bleeding, lethargy, or other symptoms.
It’s best to consult your veterinarian for advice on the best treatment for your dog. They’ll advise you on whether you need to take your pet to the emergency vet as soon as possible, or if they recommend monitoring their condition at home for the time being.
Unexpected accidents can cost over $5,000 at the emergency vet.
Pet insurance provides peace of mind by ensuring you’re always prepared to give your pet the care they need when it matters most.
While any dog can howl, certain breeds are more prone to this behavior due to their genetics, history, and specific vocal tendencies. These breeds often have a strong connection to their wild ancestors or were bred for roles that required communication over long distances.
Here are some breeds known for howling:
Compared to ancient breeds like Siberian Huskies more modern breeds — such as Golden Retrievers and Labradors — may rely more on barking and other forms of vocalization to communicate.
Interestingly, research1 has also suggested that age may play a role in howling behavior, with older dogs from ancient breeds tending to howl more frequently than their younger counterparts.
This could be due to a combination of factors, including:
Although Basenjis are referred to as the “barkless dog”, the breed is actually quite vocal and capable of producing a variety of sounds including a howl or “yodel”, which is believed to be closer to a wolf’s cry than a traditional bark.
The reasons why Basenjis yodel versus bark could be related to their history as hunting dogs in the African forests. It also enables them to communicate with their human partners over long distances.
While howling is a natural and generally harmless behavior for dogs, there are times when it warrants investigation from a veterinary perspective. If your dog's howling is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other signs of distress like panting, pacing, or whining, it's important to have them checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.
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Additionally, if your dog is excessively howling and causing problems — either due to the frequency or volume or because it's disrupting your quality of life or your relationship with your dog — it's a good idea to seek professional help.
A veterinarian or a certified dog trainer can help you understand the source of this behavioral condition and provide guidance on how to address it by managing its underlying cause.
Understanding the reasons behind your dog's howling can deepen your bond with your furry friend. By being attentive to their needs and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can ensure that your dog's howling remains a natural and enjoyable part of their personality.
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Kaelee Nelson is a die-hard dog mom, part-time dog trainer, and ultimate pet enthusiast. She recently rescued a puppy named Zoey who went from the streets of Mexico to the big lights in L.A. after Kaelee helped her become officially studio-trained for production work, with the goal of strengthen her dog's confidence as well as the bond they share. Kaelee remains passionate about pets in her role as Content Marketing Manager by helping owners prepare for the financial burden that often comes with giving our furry BFFs the best care possible. Enrolling Zoey in a pet insurance policy was a no-brainer for Kaelee, as it enabled her to get reimbursed for vet costs like spaying, vaccinations, routine care, and more.