Why do dogs howl? Causes and when to worry

Part 1

What howling means

In wolves, howling helps pack members stay in touch, defend territory, and gather before a hunt. One wolf howling can set off a chain of howls through the rest of the pack, and your dog may join a chorus the same way. Dogs bark far more than wolves do, so scientists are not completely sure why dogs howl, though it clearly works as communication, much like barking, whining, or growling.

A howl seems to work like your dog's way of saying, here I am. Your dog might also howl when they hear you approaching the front door, as a way of connecting with you. Huskies can differentiate between tonal patterns and use them to communicate over long distances.

Part 2

Everyday reasons your dog howls

Dogs howl for many different reasons. Your dog may howl back at sirens or certain musical notes because the sound resembles a howl to them. Howling also lets your dog talk to other dogs nearby, marking territory. Some dogs howl to get your attention, especially if howling has worked for them before. Research also suggests dogs may respond differently to types of music, seeming calmer with classical music and more agitated with heavy metal.

A howl can also be a way to release pent-up energy. Northern breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes often howl or sing instead of bark, and some start howling as puppies before their eyes even open. Scenthounds like Beagles and Bloodhounds make a related sound called baying, a long bark used while they track an animal. Ancient breeds closely related to wolves, including Huskies, Chow Chows, and Basenjis, howl more often than more recently developed breeds, and older dogs of these breeds tend to howl more than younger ones. Huskies in particular use howls and other sounds to stay in touch with their pack, whether that pack is other dogs or your own family.

Part 3

Howling linked to distress or anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety often howl when you leave, and research on their behavior links this howling to fear. This kind of howling seems to work like a request for company or assistance. If your usually quiet dog starts howling more than normal, it may be a response to pain or sickness. A sudden or increased amount of howling can signal a behavioral or medical problem worth looking into.

Part 4

When howling needs a vet's attention

Howling is a normal form of dog communication with social and emotional meaning. If howling is new, excessive, or happens along with restlessness, destructive behavior, or a change in appetite, talk to your veterinarian or a qualified trainer. Frequent or sudden increases in howling can also point to boredom, anxiety, or a health issue. Ask your vet if you are not sure whether your dog's howling is normal for them.

Part 5

How to respond to excessive howling

• Avoid giving attention, positive or negative, when your dog howls for attention, since this can reinforce the behavior.
• Teach a quiet cue or reward calm, quiet behavior instead so your dog learns another way to reach you.
• If your dog seems relaxed while howling along to music, there is usually no harm in letting them join in.
• If your dog's howling changes suddenly, note when it happens so you can share details with your vet.