What is my dog thinking when I get him howling?

Asked by drClaw (4452

) October 25th, 2010

This is pure curiosity. A long time ago I discovered I can get my dog, Capone, to howl with me. Initially I think I was singing (which can only be likened to the sound of a dieing moose) and he cocked his head back with a howl. Since this discovery I’ve had fun getting him to howl with me every once in a while.

I know howling is a form of long distance communication for dogs, but still I can’t help but wonder what he thinks is happening when I do this. Drop some knowledge on me Fluther.

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12 Answers

Group howling is a method coyotes and wolves use to strengthen the bonds within a pack, especially when the pack is being challenged or issuing a challenge. You are his pack leader, so he is supporting you.

WestRiverrat (20132

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Exactly what @WestRiverrat says. It’s a pack-bonding ritual.

downtide (23815

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Aww, I love doggies.

Jude (32207

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Pack leader huh… I like the sound of that. I’m thinking “pack leader” + “cobra” = coolest nickname ever!

What were we talking about again? Oh yeah…

Thanks for the answer, very interesting.

drClaw (4452

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He is thinking, “Wow humans really act peculiarly sometimes!”

rooeytoo (26986

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If he can do this. Well, now your talking.

ucme (50047

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Dogs can’t think. If they could, they would refuse to eat dogfood, and try to get into the bathroom instead of going to the back door. It is something else.

josie (30934

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@josie – it is true some dogs don’t think but if you had ever met an akita, bouvier or dingo, you would change your mind. It’s why I love them, you can look into their eyes and see the wheels turning!

rooeytoo (26986

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