Dogs have a limited repertoire of sounds at their disposal, all of which are used to convey a comprehensive range of emotions. Basically, when Fido howls, he’s trying to tell you something. Whether your dog wants food, water, outside time, affection, or anything else, his howling is really just an example of natural and typical canine communication. Dogs are pack animals, and wild dogs use their howls to make contact with other members of their packs. Today, dogs which are kept as pets are more likely to howl because they feel neglected by their owners.
Most commonly, howling will be a loud and haunting expression of loneliness. Sometimes, simple boredom is the trigger for a spate of doleful howling that makes dog owners want to invest in some good earplugs. If your beloved pooch is howling and carrying on a lot, you’re probably wondering if it will ever stop. You may also wonder if something is wrong with your dog (or if you’re a terrible pet owner). Try not to worry too much. Canine howling is far from rare, and there are some ways to minimize this worrisome behaviour before it drives you (and your neighbours) crazy.
Here are some tips on nipping dog howling in the bud:
Comfort Fido While You’re Away from the House – If your dog howls when you’re away, you’ve probably heard some complaints from neighbours. You may even have been treated to epic howling that filled the air as soon as you disappeared through the front door. To stop the problem, consider comforting your dog with some familiar sounds and smells. Many pet owners get organized before they leave the house. They prepare carefully to minimize the risk of loud, anguished howling. Typical “props” that may calm a dog and stop howling include old shirts that carry a pet owner’s scent, or soft blankets that also smell like a dog’s mistress or master.
Wear an old shirt a couple of times, don’t wash it, and then give it to your pooch before you head out to work or leisure activities. You should also play the radio at a quiet volume to lessen your canine’s feelings of loneliness. Dogs aren’t solitary creatures. Canines are social animals that travel in packs, and it’s understandably difficult for these animals to cope with solitude. By playing music and giving your dog a special object that emits your scent, you’ll make him or her feel less alone.
Many dogs howl less (or not at all) when their owners use this strategy.
Buy Some Stimulating Dog Toys – Your canine pal is an intelligent animal, and he or she needs mental stimulation to be happy. If you suspect that boredom is at the root of your pet’s howling, a few fun and diverting puzzle toys, chew toys, or balls may be in order. Like people, dogs need novelty now and then, and they need to keep their minds occupied. Since Fido can’t send text messages and surf the Net like you do, he needs some special playthings to amuse him when life gets a little bit dull. The simple act of supplying your beloved dog with some fun and challenging dog toys (such as plastic “puzzle” balls or cubes that dispense dog treats once Fido has “solved” the challenges) may work wonders and dramatically decrease howls of boredom. Other fun and classic dog toys include chewable Nylabones or rawhide bones, and plush toys that make funny noises.
Praise Quiet Times and Deny Treats during Howling Phases – Proper dog training is all about rewarding desirable behaviour. When your dog is quiet and well-behaved, be sure to dole out plenty of affection, playtime, and treats. When your canine friend is howling up a storm, don’t play, pet, or reward your dog. When you kindly but firmly keep up this routine, your pet will begin to make a mental connection that howling keeps him or her from getting what is wanted most. While it’s never easy to ignore a howling dog, it’s best to take this sort of training seriously.
In rare cases, howling may be caused by a medical problem, such as an obstruction, stomach bug, or injury. Howls of pain that are accompanied by changes in eating habits and alterations to typical sleep patterns may signal an underlying health issue that needs attention from a licensed veterinarian. While most howling is an expression of emotion, rather than pain, it’s always best to rule out health issues when there is a problem.
Spending enough time with your dog is really important. Your pet loves you and feels so much loyalty and affection for you. When you’re not around, your dog will pine for you and howl to express his or her feelings. If your canine buddy is howling a lot, ask yourself if you’re giving him or her enough quality time. A few extra hours of playtime and petting each week may fulfill your dog and improve his or her behaviour.
Always be patient with your dog when howling occurs. Remember that physical punishment won’t solve anything. In fact, it is bound to increase your pet’s emotional problems.
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