Why is my dog ​​acting like a wolf?

The wolf howl is a communication ritual between pack members. This social call is a means of interaction between wolves, which they also use to signal, without conflict, to strangers that the territory is occupied by their pack. This mysterious cry is partly inherited from the domestic dog . But why does the dog act like a wolf?

General information about dog howling

Howling is an instinctive reaction related to genetic inheritance . Indeed, the wolf and the dog belong to the same genealogical branch. As a result, both share certain similarities in their behaviors, such as howling. It is a natural action that is part of the dog's communication language. This cry allows it to express itself and show its feelings.

Howling is often associated with bad omens and is often referred to as a mournful and annoying sound that generates a feeling of unease, especially when it is emitted repetitively or when it is a prolonged cry. On the other hand, it is more adorable when it is made by a puppy.

Howling: a means of communication specific to certain breeds

Howling is observed in some breeds of dogs such as the canid species: the wolf and in the most "wolf-like" dogs. These animals are less frequented by humans and they closely resemble wolves in their physical appearance and characteristics, such as: the Saarloos wolfdog, the Husky , the Greenland dog, the Czechoslovakian wolfdog, etc.

Some dog breeds howl more than others. This is especially true for larger breeds, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes . However, some smaller breeds, such as Beagles and Dachshunds, also tend to howl. However, there are some shy breeds that never howl.

It's not always easy to decode dog howls, but understanding them helps you get to know your companion better.

Why is my dog ​​howling?

Typically, dogs instinctively howl like wolves (or howls to death) in response to sounds they perceive as howls or social calls (like the howls of their ancestors).

The dog's cry is easier to distinguish at night, due to the quiet atmosphere and the absence of noise. It is also easier to hear from a long distance at night.

In the case of a domestic dog, howling is a somewhat odd behavior, as it is often associated with wild dogs that do not live in a home. You may be wondering why my dog ​​acts like a wolf? Why does he start howling when a siren goes off or when he hears me singing? Why does he act like a wolf when he is home alone and bothers the neighbors?

If your dog belongs to a breed that uses howling as part of its communication language, then it may act like a wolf:

• call you when you get home.
• communicate with other dogs in the area.
• express anxiety when alone or to attract attention.
• warn foreign people and dogs that the territory (where it is located) belongs to him.
• inform you that he has found prey during a hunting trip.
• call for help in case of distress.
• counter boredom. In fact, your dog may start howling to keep himself busy when he is bored.
• express pain due to an injury for example.
• respond to your song. In this case, the wolf considers the song a social call, to which it reacts instinctively.
• respond to certain loud noises, such as an ambulance siren, a vehicle horn, or a fire engine siren. The dog may howl by confusing the cry of a pack of dogs with the loud sound of the siren. This is a natural behavior in response to the sound he has heard.

Once you understand why your dog is acting like a wolf, you will know what actions you need to take to react correctly.

How to behave when the dog acts like a wolf?

To avoid disturbing the neighbors with your dog's howling, give him something to do and provide him with a reassuring environment so he doesn't feel alone or bored. There are several ways to keep him occupied for a long time. You can give him a large butcher's bone to chew on. Also, give him treats, food, and toys. Think about all the things that can fill his time while you're away.

When you return, stimulate your pet by offering him flowers, for example; they are highly prized for their relaxing effect. Take him for a walk and let him meet his fellow creatures.

Understanding your dog's personality is essential to understanding their behaviors, such as howling. This will allow you to create an effective action plan to address the needs that drive them to howl.