As a pet owner, it’s essential to understand your dog’s body language and sounds. Understanding these clues will ensure your pup gets what they need and you are helping them in the right way.
Barks, whistles and growls are all signs of a dog’s mood. They can indicate excitement, pain, frustration or even hunger.
Bark
The sound a dog makes when barking is called a bark. It may be an explosive cry or a laugh, and it can have several meanings based on the situation.
Bark can also be a protective or territorial sound. It can be used to warn intruders that they are in danger or discipline a rude companion.
A dog’s barks can vary in pitch, volume and frequency depending on the situation. For instance, a bark that’s repeated often and in a high-pitched voice means it’s excited or urgent. A bark that’s spaced out or has a lower-pitched voice means it’s less serious.
Whine
When your dog whines, it’s a way of communicating its needs or expressing distress. The high-pitched cry is also a way of getting your attention, like when it wants you to play or take them outside.
Whining is a submissive behavior that comes from dogs’ ancestors, the wolves. They used this vocalization to reclaim their place in the pack when they were shunned.
You can train your dog to stop whining by giving them a warning and then redirecting their attention to a more appropriate activity. This might help you and your dog build your bond again instead of just trying to get your dog to do something they don’t want to do.
Howl
Among the various vocalizations dogs make, howl is one of the few that can be heard across long distances. Like barking and growling, howling is a form of communication that your dog has evolved from its ancestry with wolves.
Wolves howl when they are in a pack, and they use this sound to communicate with other members of the pack. They howl when they hear sirens or other warning sounds from another pack, and they howl if they think there is a threat to their territory.
Often, dogs howl when they are hearing something interesting, such as the sounds of music or fireworks. It’s possible that your dog is trying to get your attention, or is using this as a way of letting you know that they love you.
Growl
Growls are a sound that your dog can make to convey different emotions, desires, and intentions. Some growls sound scary, while others are playful and a request for attention.
When your dog is growling, it may be a warning to stay away from an area or a situation that can be dangerous. It’s also a signal to protect resources such as food or toys.
Growling can be an effective way to communicate with your dog, but it can also become a problem if you don’t understand what the growl means. Understanding the different types of growls will help you know how to handle them so that your dog doesn’t escalate to aggression.
Moan
Dogs often sigh to communicate contentment, but they also groan and grumble when they’re upset or disappointed. They may do this when they’re settling down for a nap or when you rebuff their attempts to play.
Moans are usually low-pitched and long-winded. They’re an expression of pleasure or relief, and they’re often used by content puppies to communicate with their parents or other siblings.
However, if your dog is moaning when they’re laying down, it could be a sign that they’re experiencing pain. This can be caused by fluid buildup in their abdomen. If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms when you’re petting them, it’s time to visit your vet. They can help you figure out what’s causing them to moan. In the meantime, try rubbing their belly to see if it helps them feel better.
