You finally make it home after a long and exhausting day at work, but as you unlock your front door, you hear your dog barking and whining behind the door. The dog is whimpering louder when you walk in the door, and you wonder why she is crying.
You know she is excited to see you. However, to you, it does not seem normal for her to react this way when you enter the house. When dogs greet their owners, they usually cry for a good reason.
Dogs are social animals that need to be around other people and other dogs. They also need to be with their owner or another familiar person. If you have ever been away from your dog for an extended period of time, you will understand how important it is for them to be near someone who loves them unconditionally. Dogs can sense if you are happy or sad, and they want to be close to you so they can feel safe and secure.
Why Do Dogs Whine?
1. To get attention
Dogs whine to get attention. When they’re happy, they’ll bark; when they’re angry, they’ll howl. If their owners ignore them, they may resort to whining.
2. To communicate
When dogs whine, they’re trying to tell us something. Sometimes we just don’t understand what’s going on. Other times, though, our dog might be trying to warn us about danger or alert us to some sort of emergency.
3. To play
Sometimes, dogs whine simply because they want to play. They enjoy running around and playing fetch, tug-of-war, and chase games.
4. To express pain
If your dog whines when he hurts himself, it could mean that he’s feeling pain. He may have hurt his paw, been bitten by a snake, or even stubbed his toe.
5. To ask for food
Dogs sometimes whine at mealtime to let us know they need food. They may whine if they’re hungry, thirsty, tired, sick, or injured.
6. To beg
Some dogs whine when they want food or water. Others whine when they want to go outside or when they want to sleep.
7. To show affection
A dog who whimpers while being petted shows love and devotion. A dog who barks at people who try to touch him is showing aggression.
8. Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety occurs when a dog becomes anxious when left alone. This behavior often leads to excessive barking.
9. Fear
Fearful dogs tend to whine more than others. Some breeds, such as bulldogs, pugs, and boxers, are known for having high levels of fearfulness.
Other Problems That Might Cause Whining
Separation Anxiety. Your dog may suffer from separation anxiety if she only whines before or during your absence. If this is the case, your dog usually displays at least one other symptom of the disorder before your departure or when left alone, like pacing, panting, excessive drooling, destruction (especially around doors and windows), urination or defecation indoors, depression or other signs of distress.
Injury or Medical Condition. The most common cause of dogs whining is pain, so it’s important to consider taking your pet to the vet if she suddenly starts vocalizing or whines frequently.
What to Do About Excessive Whining
The first step in dealing with whining is to identify its source. You should take note of any changes in your dog’s behavior over time. For example, does your dog start whining when she gets older? Does she whine less when you’re home but become louder when you leave? Is her whining worse when you’re not there? These are all warning signs that your dog needs help.
Next, talk to your veterinarian. Ask whether your dog has a medical condition that causes her to whine excessively. She may have a problem with her teeth or gums, which could lead to painful chewing. Or she may have arthritis, which makes her joints ache.
Finally, find out why your dog is whining. It could be because she wants to be held, cuddled, or loved. It could also be because she’s lonely, bored, or scared. Whatever the reason, make sure your dog feels comfortable enough to stop whining.
How to Teach Hand Targeting?
Hand targeting is an effective way to train your dog to target specific objects. In fact, hand training can be used to teach many different behaviors, including sit, down, stay, come, heel, and shake.
To begin teaching your dog hand targeting, place a treat on top of a small object, such as a piece of paper or a plastic toy. Then, hold the object up in front of your dog’s nose. When he looks at the object, give him a reward. Repeat this process until your dog learns to look at the object and then follow the command to get the reward.
To teach your dog to target with his mouth, use a long-handled spoon or tongs to pick up the treat. Hold the object close to your dog’s face, and let him sniff it. As soon as he follows the scent to the object, give him the reward. Continue practicing this exercise until your dog understands what you want.
If your dog doesn’t seem interested in the object, try using a different type of food. Try giving your dog a treat after he targets the object. If he still isn’t interested, try placing the object closer to the ground.
If your dog is having trouble learning how to target, don’t worry. Most dogs will learn within 10 repetitions. However, some dogs need more practice than others. If you notice that your dog seems confused by the exercise, ask your trainer for advice.
How Do I Stop My Dog From Whining?
There are several ways to stop your dog from whining. First, you can distract her. Give your dog something else to focus on while she whines. This might include playing fetch, walking outside, or even just sitting quietly next to her.
Second, you can ignore her. Don’t respond to your dog’s whining. Instead, walk away and return later. If your dog continues to whine, repeat the steps above.
Finally, you can punish your dog. Use a firm voice and tell your dog “No!” if she starts whining. If your dog keeps whining, continue punishing her until she stops.
What Can I Do To Make My Dog More Comfortable Around New People?
Dogs often feel anxious around new people. They may bark, growl, or show other signs of aggression. The best thing you can do to help your dog become more comfortable around new people is to start slowly. Introduce yourself to your dog first. Say hello to your dog and pet her gently. You should also introduce your dog to any children who live in your home.
Next, take time to bond with your dog. Spend quality time together. Play games like tug-of-war, hide-and-seek, or fetch. Talk to your dog about things that interest both of you. For example, talk about your day, play music together or watch TV shows.
When introducing your dog to a new person, keep your dog calm. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises. Also, avoid touching your dog’s ears or tail. These actions can cause your dog to be startled.
Top 7 Dog Breeds Who Whine
7. German Shepherd Dogs
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and love toward humans. However, they have been known to whine at times. If you own a German Shepard dog, make sure to keep them happy and contented. You can do this by making sure they get plenty of exercise and playtime. Also, try not to give them food right after waking up. Make sure to let them eat first thing in the morning before giving them any treats.
6. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are known for being friendly and loving dogs who enjoy spending time with people. However, they tend to whine if they don’t get what they want. To avoid this problem, make sure to always provide your golden retriever with enough attention and affection. If you notice that your golden retriever is whining, then take note of how often he whines and whether his whining goes away once you stop paying him attention.
5. Labrador Retrievers
Labrador retrievers are loyal and gentle dogs who love to spend time around people. However, they can become quite stubborn and whine when they don’t get what’s going on. To prevent this behavior, make sure to pay close attention to your labradoodle and respond accordingly. Try to ignore your labradoodle if he starts whining. Instead, reward him with praise and petting.
4. Pomeranian Puppies
Pomeranians are small dogs who were originally bred to hunt rabbits. Because of this, they are known to be extremely active and energetic. However, they can sometimes whine when they’re tired or bored. To help reduce this behavior, make sure your pomeranian puppy gets plenty of exercise and playtime. Also, try to find ways to entertain your pomeranian puppy. He’ll appreciate it!
3. Shih Tzu Puppies
Shih tzus are small dogs who were traditionally bred to hunt birds. As a result, they are known to have a high-pitched bark. When they’re young, shih tzu puppies may whine due to teething pain. Once they’ve grown older, however, they should start barking less frequently.
2. Chihuahua Puppies
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs who were originally bred for hunting rats. Because of this, chihuahuas are known to be extremely playful and hyperactive. Unfortunately, they can also whine when they’re frustrated or scared. To help reduce this issue, make sure to play with your chihuahua regularly. Play games with him and give him lots of hugs and kisses.
1. Maltese Puppies
Maltese are small dogs who were bred to hunt mice. Because of this, Maltese puppies are known to be extremely vocal and yappy. They can also whine when they feel threatened or uncomfortable. To help reduce this type of behavior, make sure to teach your Maltese puppy good manners. Praise him whenever he does something nice.
References
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/behavioral/c_dg_fears_phobia_anxiety
https://pets.webmd.com/features/common-dog-and-cat-injuries
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/whining
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470326/
