Dogs don't have words to convey their needs and emotions, so they use sound instead. They communicate in a variety of ways, from barking and growling to grunting and sighing.
There are many different sounds dogs make, so it's important to know what each one means. Thankfully, science has given us a few clues.
Bark
The sound of a dog's bark isn't always interpreted as an alarm or warning. It can also be a way for dogs to communicate with other dogs or animals in their pack.
A dog's bark is a complex sound that is often an expression of emotion, though the pitch and duration will vary from one dog to the next. It can range from a short, sudden "yip" to a long, drawn-out howl.
In a domestic environment, dogs need to know their people's tone of voice, actions, and moods in order to be successful in their relationships with them. Understanding their language helps you provide them with what they need and avoid any unwanted behaviors.
Growl
Growling can be a sign that your dog is unhappy or uncomfortable. It may also be a warning that you should not come too close to them, especially if they are growingl in an angry or aggressive way.
A growl is a low, rumbling sound that is usually accompanied by a closed mouth and no breathing. This is a warning that you should not get too close to the dog, or else they might bite you.
A lot of research has been done on dog growls, and it’s amazing what we’ve learned about how they work. For example, researchers have discovered that dogs use growls to judge another dog’s size!
Whine
A dog whines when it needs to get your attention, or if it's in pain. Whining can also be a sign of fear or anxiety, suggests the American Kennel Club.
Similarly, dogs may whine when they are excited or when they're waiting for their human to come home. They may also whimper to apologize after breaking their rules.
It's important to understand what a dog's sounds mean so you can better help your pet. This includes knowing when your dog's sound is an appropriate response to a situation, says Danielle Bernal, BVSc, MRCVS, a veterinarian with WellPet.
A dog’s whine is a high-pitched, irritating sound that can be used to express frustration or a feeling of being unwelcome. It may be a sign of mental health problems, such as separation anxiety, or behavioral issues, such as improper crate training.
Sigh
A sigh is a sound that dogs use to communicate. It's like a deep exhale and is often accompanied by half-closed eyes or a tiny tail wag, which are signs that your dog is satisfied.
You might hear a contented sigh from your pup when they come back home after a walk, playtime in the garden or even a bit of a nap. They are happy and relaxed, and are letting you know that they're ready to be petted or a few treats.
However, some dogs also sigh when they're feeling dismayed about something. This could be because they got less attention than they expected from you, or when you decide to stop playing a game earlier than they had wished for.
Moan
When dogs moan, it may be a sign of contentment or frustration. It could also be a sign of pain, so be sure to pay attention to the sound.
Snuggled up in a dog bed, puppies and adults may groan while they sleep in an attempt to communicate their happiness. This can be especially common after snack or playtime.
Groaning can be a sign that your dog isn’t getting what they want or are feeling mildly frustrated, but this often happens with learned behavior and is a normal part of dog life. If your pup is groaning constantly, however, there may be something more serious that requires medical treatment.
