Whining In Dogs

Is your canine companion a bit of a whiner? Dogs have quite a few different vocalizations, all of which serve several purposes. There are many different reasons for Man’s Best Friend to whine. A London, ON vet offers some insight on whining below.

Causes

Whining isn’t always bad. Some pups whine when they greet their buddies, whether two- or four-legged. Fido may also whine because he can’t reach that squirrel that’s taunting him from a tree, or because his toy rolled out of reach. Some of our canine buddies have also trained their humans to pet them or offer them treats when they whine. Your four-legged buddy may also whine to let you know he needs a walk, or if the cat has taken over his bed (again). There are also more concerning causes, such as illness, fear, discomfort, anxiety, loneliness, and pain. If you aren’t sure why your furry friend is whining, ask your veterinarian or a pet behaviorist.

Breeds

Some dogs are whinier than others. The list of most likely crooners includes Huskies, Chihuahuas, Beagles, Bloodhounds, Yorkies, German Shepherds, Toy Poodles, and Dachshunds. Alaskan Malamutes and Australian Shepherds also tend to be whiny. Age may also play a role: for instance, puppies often whine when left alone at night, which can be hard for their owners to endure.

Forming Better Habits

In order to stop or reduce your dog’s whining, you’ll need to figure out why he’s crying in the first place. If there are no obvious causes, schedule an examination with your vet to rule out medical issues. If the issue is behavioral, you’ll need to essentially rewire your pup, and teach him that whining will not get him what he wants. This can be tricky, because some of our canine pals want attention so badly that they’ll settle for negative attention, such as a reprimand. Don’t punish your pooch for whining. Instead ignore him, or signal your disapproval through body language, such as crossing your arms or turning away. Be sure to reward your furry buddy for being quiet, and showing proper petiquette. It’s also important to make sure Fido is getting enough activity and playtime. Ask your vet or a dog behaviorist for specific advice and training tips.

Do you need to make an appointment for your furry friend? We are here to help! Contact us, your London, ON animal clinic, today!