Why does my dog sometimes howl?

The most typical reason you'll hear dogs howling is that they want your attention. Nothing captures a pet parent's attention faster than an eardrum-busting wail. Because people react instinctively to loud noises, you may be unknowingly encouraging this. So, when your dog howls, you respond, and the dog sees that they have your attention and that their howling is successful. Many pet owners find their dog's howling amusing or entertaining, thus a dog may see it as a technique to attract positive attention from humans.

Another reason a dog could scream is fear, specifically separation anxiety. If your dog starts howling every time you leave the house or when he is unable to reach you, he may be suffering from separation anxiety. The best way to cope with separation anxiety in dogs is to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in behavior disorders. Find a behavior specialist near you by visiting the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. Dogs today still display some of this behavior. If you leave your home, your dog may howl to try to reestablish contact with you. If the howling persists after you’ve left, it could be a sign of separation anxiety. And sometimes dogs howl to establish their territory.