How To Stop a Dog Whining
Whining among dogs is a common problem encountered by their owners. It can often be a noisy and annoying habit which may get worse if you don't address it in the early stages. Here's a few tips on how to stop a dog whining.
A dog may whine for a number of reasons and it's particular important to identify the reason as part of the training process. Some reasons that your dog might whine include:
- Your dog is jealous
- Your dog is feeling scared
- Your dog is in pain
- Your dog is suffering separation anxiety
- Your dog is seeking attention
- Your dog feel abandoned
- Your dog needs the toilet!
- Your dog is thirsty!
Firstly it's important to work out why your dog is whining. It's obviously crucial to make sure your dog isn't in pain - this might be the case if the whining starts totally out of the blue. You'll probably know when your dog needs the toilet so that's easy to identify too.
Normally, punishment won't help your dog to stop whining long-term. Training both you and your dog is much more beneficial.
Dogs generally whine because it's one of their methods of communication and expressing their emotions. Whilst many owners let their dogs whine a lot, most will make sure their dog knows that it's unacceptable.
If you are confident that your dog isn't whining because it's in pain, needs the toilet, or is very thirsty, one of the early steps to take to stop your dog whining is by ignoring it.
It's hard not to feel guilty about this, but it's a proven method to help reduce your dog's whining. The more often you give your dog attention when it whines, the more it will learn that it's the whining that leads to attention! This will only lead to your dog assuming it's the best way to communicate.
Dogs will often whine if they suffer from separation anxiety, which can be fairly common. They become anxious that you (one of their 'pack') isn't by their side for protection and companionship.
Dealing with this can be hard - it's a different topic entirely to a certain extent. Try not to fuss over your dog when you go out or come back home. Try leaving the house for 5 minutes, and returning with no fuss. Try 10 minutes, then 20, and so on.
Dogs can also whine because they are bored or restless. It's important that your dog gets it's daily dose of exercise and stimulation. A fit, healthy and active dog is less likely to whine.
Punishing your dog is not the best way to stop your dog whining - training is. Whilst it might take some time, your patience will pay off. Most dog training books will have tips and advice on stopping your dog whining.
Remember - if your dog doesn't normally whine and starts to quite suddenly - there may be something wrong. Don't ignore this!