Why Do Dogs Howl - 5 Reasons Behind A Dog's Howl
From "your dog has seen a ghost" to "your puppy is in pain", we have heard many reasons why dogs howl. But have you ever wondered what the real reason behind your dog’s howls is? If so, you've come to the right place.

Common behaviour in dogs, howling can mainly be categorized as a means of communication for canines.
Though a natural behaviour, many other environmental aspects can trigger your dog’s howl too. So, to better comprehend this behaviour, let’s look at the various reasons that can cause your dog to howl.
Important Discussion Points In This Guide
- Dogs Howl To Seek Attention
- A Dog’s Howl Is An Inherited Behavior
- Dogs Howl Due To External Stimuli
- Dogs Howl Because Of Pain or Injury
- Dogs Howl To Alert You Of Danger
5 Reasons Why Dogs Howl
1. Dogs Howl To Seek Attention
Howling is a way of communication for dogs. And they mainly do this to call out for you and grab your attention.
This usually happens when your dog is lonely and does not get to spend time with you. Howling for attention is a more common behaviour seen in adopted dogs or puppies and even in adult dogs with separation anxiety.
Dogs usually howl out of loneliness at night or when their pet parent is away from home. Other than howling, dogs who suffer from separation anxiety exhibit unusual behaviours such as destructive chewing, constant pacing, and much more.

2. A Dog’s Howl Is An Inherited Behavior
Howling, like many canine habits, has ancestral roots. Wolves howl to communicate with their pack in the wild. It is also a way through which they inform other members of the pack of their current location.
Similarly, domesticated dogs howl to communicate with other dogs (this is why one dog’s howl can set off other dogs to howl).
3. Dogs Howl Due To External Stimuli
If an ambulance just passed by your house or if you played some high-pitched music, there is a high chance your dog has begun to howl.
An alert and responsive dog usually does this when he hears sounds that stimulate him. This shows that howling, other than being a natural behaviour, is also a dog’s reaction to environmental cues.

4. Dogs Howl Because Of Pain or Injury
One of the most common reasons we hear when dogs howl is that they are in pain. And in some cases, this can be true. Just like humans cry when they are hurt, dogs also cry (howl) to tell you that they are in pain.
5. Dogs Howl To Alert You Of Danger
Dogs howl to guard you against what they perceive as danger. Since canines are territorial, howling is a way your dog protects his territory/home from strangers or intruders.
Animal behaviourists say that multiple other reasons can trigger your dog’s howl. Such as if they :
- heard other dogs howl,
- are hungry/thirsty,
- are lost,
- are stressed or
- if they want to relieve themself.
Though a dog’s howl is completely harmless, if they begin howling excessively, it can cause problems for both you and your neighbours.
In case your dog howls excessively it is best to rule out any serious underlying issues like separation anxiety, injury or health issues. To do so, make sure to visit your Veterinarian and provide them with all the information.

You should also never punish your dog for howling. Alternatively, when your dog is howling do not give him treats to calm him down as this would encourage him to repeat the behaviour.
Now that you know the various reasons Why Dogs Howl, check out our blog to learn the Solutions To Destructive Chewing In Dogs.
related posts
How To Bond With Your Cat - Do's & Don'ts Of Interacting With Cats
Spending time and bonding with your cat is one of the most heart-warming parts of being a cat parent. And no matter if you have brought a new kitty home or if you have a cat at home who you would like to bond with, then here are a few things you should do (and should not).
Destructive Dog Chewing - Causes & Solution To Excessive Chewing In Dogs
Dogs chewing is completely normal until it gets out of hand. Parenting a dog who has a destructive chewing habit can be a handful but you need to understand that your dog’s chewing behaviour is the result of multiple.....
Vet Answered Dog Summer Care Tips - How To Care For Your Dog In Summer
As the seasons come and go, there’s one question that all pet parents have when the temperature rises - “How Do I Take Care Of My Dog In Summer?”. So, we invited Veterinarian Dr Sushmitha to answer..
Why Do Dogs Howl - 5 Reasons Behind A Dog's Howl
From "your dog has seen a ghost" to "your puppy is in pain", we have heard many reasons why dogs howl. But have you ever wondered what the real reason behind your dog’s howls is? If so, you've come to the right place.
OUR NEWSLETTER
Get the latest news you need, straight to your inbox.