Do you have a Border Terrier? If so, do you know why do border terriers howl? Some people say it’s because they’re trying to sound like a coyote, while others say it’s just their way of communicating. Whatever the reason, it’s certainly a unique behavior! Keep reading to learn more about why Border Terriers howl and what you can do to help stop them.
Are Border Terriers Vocal?
The short answer is yes, border terriers are a vocal breed. They have a high energy level and are known for their running, barking, and digging behaviors. However, they can also be trained to control their vocal tendencies with proper obedience training and socialization.
It’s important to channel their instincts into acceptable behavior. While some may find their vocal nature excessive or bothersome, for others it’s just part of owning a border terrier. Overall, with the right care and training, these active and enthusiastic pups can make for loving companions.
Reasons Why Your Border Terrier Howl:
While some breeds of dogs, such as Huskies, are known for their vocalizations, the Border Terrier may surprise their owners with unexpected howling. So why do these pups make this particular sound? Here are some reasons your Border Terrier may be howling:
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common issue for dogs, particularly with certain dog breeds such as Border Terriers. One reason for their howling when left alone is their strong bond with their owners.
These dogs have been bred to work closely with humans, and they may struggle with being separated from their favorite person.
This strong bond can lead to distress when left alone, causing them to howl as a means of trying to reunite with their owner. While it can be difficult for owners, it is important to address separation anxiety through proper training and behavior modification practices to ensure a happy and healthy relationship with your Border Terrier. Seek out the guidance of a professional trainer if necessary. Remember, every dog deserves the chance to feel confident and secure when left alone.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
In some cases, Dog Howling may be a way for your Border Terrier to get your attention. If you consistently give in to their demands for attention, they may learn that howling gets them what they want and continue the behavior even when they do not need anything.
It’s important to be consistent with your attention and only give it when they’re quiet and calm. Otherwise, you risk reinforcing the unwanted behavior.
Learn More: How Many Puppies Do Border Terriers Have
When Senses Small Animals
Border Terriers breed were originally bred to hunt small animals. When they sense their prey, they have the instinct to kill and may let out a distinct cry. When they sense a target, they will let out a distinctive “kill cry” to alert their human hunters. Terrier kill cries can sometimes sound like howling to an untrained ear, but they are an intentional vocalization used during the hunt.
Border Terriers may also howl as a form of communication with their pack or to express excitement or distress. Owners need to be aware of this breed’s hunting instincts and provide appropriate outlets, such as playing fetch or participating in organized hunts, to prevent unwanted behaviours. Understanding the reason for dogs’ howling can also help owners appropriately train and manage their dogs.
Boredom
Another common reason for howling is boredom. If your Border Terrier isn’t getting enough exercise or stimulation, it may start to howl out of sheer boredom. Be sure to give your Border Terriers plenty of opportunities to run and play so they don’t become bored. Puzzle toys and food dispensing toys can also help keep their minds active and engaged.
Learn More: How To Breed Border Terriers
Border Terrier Howl To Express Joy And Success
The Border Terrier breed is known for its athletic abilities and high energy and also has a unique way of expressing joy and success. Unlike some dogs who may bark or yip, Border Terriers sing” or howl.
This howling can range from short trips to longer drawn-out sounds, usually accompanied by jumping and excited body language. So the next time you hear your Border Terrier howling, it likely means they are feeling happy and successful at that moment – just be sure to provide them with an outlet for their energy so the howling doesn’t become excessive.
Genetic Predisposition
It’s a commonly held belief that dogs howl due to a genetic predisposition inherited from their wolf ancestors. However, not all dogs howl – while some breeds, like the Border Terrier, may have a genetic tendency to do so, other dogs may only occasionally or never howl at all.
In addition to genetic factors, their unique vocal anatomy and development can also play a role. Owners of these breeds need to understand and monitor their dog’s behavior to prevent excessive or disruptive howling.
Overall, while genetics may contribute to why dogs howl, it is not the sole determining factor. With proper care and training, owners can work with their dog’s tendencies and needs to ensure they are happy and well-adjusted members of the family.
Learn More: Are Border Terriers Good Hunting Dogs?
They’re In Pain
If your Border Terrier suddenly starts howling for no apparent reason, it could be a sign that they’re in pain or discomfort. If this is the case, it’s important to take them to the vet so that they can rule out any medical problems and provide treatment if necessary.
Hunger
It could also be a trigger for howling in Border Terriers. If your dog is used to being fed on a schedule and starts to get hungry outside of their usual meal times, they may start to howl in an attempt to get your attention. To avoid this, make sure you’re sticking to a regular feeding schedule and always have plenty of food available for them.
They’ve Been Rewarded For Howling In The Past
Dogs are smart creatures and quickly learn that certain behaviors result in rewards (like treats or attention). If you’ve ever given into your Border Terrier’s howling by giving them what they want, they may have learned that this is an effective way to get what they want from you.” To break this habit, ignore your dog when they start howling and only give them attention when they’re quiet.”
Learn More: How Much Water Does A Border Terrier Need?
Learn More: Why Does My Border Terrier Smell So Bad?
Wrapping Up
If you want to know why border terriers howl, the answer is simple: they’re trying to communicate with you. Border terriers have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and they want to share it with you. When they howl, they’re telling you that they’re happy, excited, or even lonely. Howling is just one way for them to express themselves – so make sure you listen!
