9 Sounds Dogs Make and What They Mean

Dogs, the pet best known as ‘man’s best friend,’ are intelligent, compassionate creatures. If you own a dog, you’ve probably wished that your dog could talk. While human vocalizations are unlikely, our furry companions actually can communicate with humans. Tail-wagging aside, dogs are able to communicate with their owners using different dog sounds, in addition to barking. Some breeds can even vocalize their needs in unique ways. Although certain dogs are more vocal than others, several noises are common and easy to decipher. If you’re wanting to learn more about what your dog is trying to tell you, check out these nine sounds dogs make and what they mean.

What Do Different Dog Sounds Mean?

After spending hours with your dog and learning their personality, it can be easy to decipher what your dog is trying to tell you. Once you have grown accustomed to your dog’s distinctive voice and bark, you’ll probably know enough to gauge their needs. However, it can still be tricky to know exactly what your dog is trying to communicate.

If your dog is barking, you might notice the pitch of the bark, their body language, and the position and motion of their tail. The sound of their bark and their various postures communicate many different feelings, such as fear, aggression, or excitement. Keep reading to find out more about these canine-specific sounds.

1. The Excited Bark

The sound of high-pitched barks and joyful yips is a clear sign of excitement and happiness. You might also notice a wagging tail alongside their happy barking. You can respond to your furry friend’s yips by offering affection or engaging in playtime.

2. The Rumbling Growl

A low and rumbling growl signals your dog’s discomfort. This sound might mean that they perceive a threat, or it could be a potential warning sign. If your dog feels uneasy about a particular situation or person, a growl can mean that your dog feels fearful. If they’re in a comfy spot and you try to move them, a throat growl likely means, “stop disturbing me.” Ultimately, this noise communicates a boundary.

3. The Attention-Seeking Whine

Whining can convey a number of messages, but it is primarily used to signal your dog’s desire for attention. Although whining might also be used to express anxiety or discomfort, it is generally used to communicate that a dog wants something like food, a toy, or attention. However, if your dog is uncomfortable or panting while whining, it might mean that he is anxious or afraid. It’s important to distinguish the context. 

4. The Happy Howl

Some dog breeds never use howling to communicate, but Siberian huskies, for instance, regularly howl as a form of talking. Because dogs evolved from wolves, howling is a trait that remains from their ancestors. However, dogs have a different social environment than wolves, which means that their way of communicating is distinct. Happy howling can be a way to say hello or get attention. 

5. The High-Pitched Yelp

A high-pitched yelp can be an exclamation from your dog. These sounds can express pain, and it can also mean that your dog is startled. The sound might indicate that your dog needs attention and care. If you hear your dog yelp, check to see if they have experienced an injury, or determine if your dog needs comfort. 

6. The Contented Sigh

A relaxed dog might express satisfaction with a sigh of contentment. This release indicates your dog is safe, comfortable, and happy.

7. The Continuous Bark

Barking can mean a number of things, but sharp and rapid barks may be intended to alert you to potential threats or danger. Your dog might have heard a suspicious noise and feels the need to be vigilant. The continuous barking might suggest that your dog wants you to investigate the source.

8. The Disappointed Groan

This sound resembles a sigh, but it can have a completely different meaning. A groan can indicate that your dog is upset. The noise might sound like a grunt, and it can represent a dog’s disapproval or discontentment. 

9. The Eager Singer

Some dogs might give singing a whirl. There are experts who claim that dogs sing because it’s an evolutionary reaction. Some research suggests that dogs have great pitch, capable of adapting their tone.

Understanding the Sounds Dogs Make and What They Mean

Understanding the sounds your dog makes can help you tend to their needs better. Learning how dogs communicate is like discovering a new language. You can build a deeper relationship with your dog by listening to their sounds and striving to understand their physical and emotional needs. Understanding your buddy’s forms of communication will foster a happy relationship with your dog.