Scientists Explain Why Some Dogs Howl
Miscellaneous / / April 02, 2023
The tendency to howl depends on breed, age and reproductive status.
Why do some dogs howl for any reason, while others remain calm even when left alone at home? Scientists from the Eötves Lorand University (Hungary) studied this question and revealed several patterns.
Animals use howling to communicate with each other, to define their boundaries. This is typical for wolves and other predatory mammals from the canine family. However, domestic dogs sometimes use such communication, although in their case it has no practical meaning for a long time.
Researchers tested 68 purebred domestic dogs to find out why. They played recordings of wolves howling and watched the animals' reactions. It turned out that those breeds that are genetically closer to wolves (Samoyeds, Huskies) tend to respond to predators, but, as a rule, due to fear and stress. But "modern breeds" often react simply by barking.
“It seems that although howling is present in the repertoire of most breeds, it has lost its functionality due to a change in social environment, so modern breeds don't use it in situations like this,” explains Fanny Lechocki, lead author research.
Age also affects the tendency to howl. Pets aged 5 years and older use this means of communication more often. This may be due to the fact that older dogs are more shy.
In addition to breed and age, scientists tested the influence of gender and reproductive status. There was no difference between intact and sterilized females, but castrated males howl more often. Most likely due to a lack of testosterone, the authors of the study suggest.
Based on their results, the scientists concluded that the howling of pets can often literally mean "I'm scared, don't come near me." This study also supported the hypothesis that the domestication of dogs has fundamentally altered their vocal repertoire and perception of other people's howls.
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