9 Dog Breeds That Howl The Most
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All dogs howl, regardless of their breed, age, or temperament. Some dogs howl a little; some howl a lot. Some howl loudly, while others howl for long periods. But in one way or another, they all howl.
Howling is deeply rooted in canine ancestry. In the wild, wolves would howl to announce their location to pack members or to warn other animals to stay away from their territory. While your dog might not be howling to pinpoint their whereabouts or ward off intruders, howling remains a vital form of communication.
Dogs howl to express themselves and communicate with their human families. It’s essential to understand what your dog is trying to convey when they howl so you can respond appropriately.
Interestingly, breeds that are more closely related to wolves tend to howl more frequently than those that are more recently developed. So, which breeds are the most likely to howl? Let’s find out.
Dog Breeds that Howl
1. Bloodhound
For centuries, the Bloodhound’s incredible sense of smell has been used to track game for noblemen across Europe. Today, their keen noses are put to work in detective roles and search-and-rescue missions. Bloodhounds are known for their distinctive loud baying, a deep bark they use to communicate. They tend to be vocal, and this behavior varies based on their training and personality.
Even though domestic dogs have evolved over the past 15,000 years, breeds like the Bloodhound continue to howl to communicate with their pack. Bloodhounds often bay at night or when separated from their families for extended periods. If your Bloodhound gets anxious about being left alone, they might start howling and engage in destructive behaviors to release their energy. This can also indicate that they need more exercise or mental stimulation.
According to the PDSA, Bloodhounds need at least two hours of exercise every day, preferably split into several walks. They love long, interesting walks with plenty of opportunities to sniff around. They also enjoy running and playing off-lead in secure areas. Despite their size, Bloodhounds can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so a secure garden is essential to keep them safe and prevent them from following tempting scents outside.
2. Beagle
Beagles are hound dogs that were originally bred for hunting and scent tracking. Howling is a common behavior in beagles, and it is used to alert their owners to scents and prey. Even if they are not used for hunting, Beagles may howl for various reasons. One reason is to get attention; your Beagle might howl to make sure all eyes are on them. They also howl when they hear high-pitched sounds like sirens. Additionally, Beagles bark to alert their owners to potential threats.
If left alone for long periods, Beagles can develop separation anxiety, which often leads to howling. PetPlan notes that despite their howling tendencies, Beagles’ friendly and outgoing nature makes them great family pets. They are eager to please and highly intelligent, thriving on plenty of training and mental stimulation.
All dogs should be taught obedience and certain commands starting at a young age, and Beagles are no exception. Known for their stubbornness, Beagles require focused training from the beginning. Given their vocal nature, teaching them a “be quiet” command to control excessive barking and howling is especially important.
The best approach is to use positive reinforcement, rewarding your Beagle for good behavior to encourage them to follow commands.
3. American Foxhound
American Foxhounds are sleek, rangy hunters known for their speed, endurance, and strong work ethic. These good-natured, low-maintenance hounds get along well with kids, other dogs, and even cats, but they come with special considerations for prospective owners.
Originally bred to hunt foxes, American Foxhounds are popular for their musical howl, a trait that makes them less suitable for city living. Their bays and howls, while melodious to hound lovers, can carry for miles and become a nuisance to neighbors.
Training and housebreaking these independent dogs can be a steep challenge for novice owners. They need plenty of exercise to prevent depression and destructive behaviors. A Foxhound’s single-minded prey drive must be managed carefully.
Because they were bred to hunt and chase animals and to follow scents, they should only be allowed loose in securely fenced areas, and all walks should be taken on a leash. According to the AKC, American Foxhounds are easygoing and amiable, but their stubborn and independent nature can make training an exercise in patience.
4. Bluetick Coonhound
There’s something irresistible about a droopy-eared hound like the Bluetick Coonhound. This energetic, lovable canine thrives in the company of an active family. Bluetick Coonhounds have a distinctive baying or howling bark that they use to communicate and signal when they’ve located a scent while hunting.
Although this vocalization is quite loud and distinctive, Bluetick Coonhounds are typically friendly and sociable dogs. According to Orvis, they are likely to bawl or howl regardless of how much exercise they get. While a tired dog may be quieter, baying is part of the breed’s nature.
Bluetick Coonhounds are generally obedient with consistent training, but they do have a stubborn streak. Their history as independent-thinking hunting dogs has given them the ability to solve problems and figure out solutions to tricky situations, but it also means they might think their ideas are better than yours. With training and patience, you’ll surely reach a compromise.
Despite their rugged looks, they prefer to curl up on the bed rather than sleep on the floor. Because of their bugle-like bay, Bluetick Coonhounds are best suited to life in the country where they won’t disturb the neighbors.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as ‘weiner dogs,’ are a breed of short-legged, long-bodied hounds that are popular pets in households around the world. Generally, they are friendly, lovable, and loyal, making excellent companions. However, one particular trait often associated with Dachshunds is their tendency to howl.
There are many reasons why Dachshunds may howl. They might be responding to environmental sounds such as car horns, doorbells, or other dogs barking. Howling can also be a way for them to get attention from their owners or express excitement. Additionally, Dachshunds may howl when they are feeling anxious or lonely.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds need regular exercise to stay fit and build strong muscles to support and protect their backs, according to PetMD. They also have a natural instinct to dig, which can cause damage to your potted plants and yard. Providing alternative activities and ensuring they get enough physical activity can help manage these behaviors.
6. American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog was originally bred as a watchdog, and their territorial nature and courage reflect this history. WebMD notes that Eskies are known for being very vocal, possessing a sharp, loud bark that they use to alert their owners to any strangers nearby.
Fiercely loyal to their families, American Eskimo Dogs can be wary of strangers and become very protective of their homes, often barking and not allowing visitors to enter without approval from their owners.
Eskies are social animals that thrive on being part of family life. When neglected or undertrained, they can develop problem behaviors due to their insistence on social interaction. Their need for exercise and activity is quite high, and they can easily become bored and irritable if not given something to do. Without sufficient mental stimulation and physical activity, Eskies may start barking excessively and chewing on inappropriate objects.
Providing structure and purpose is essential for an American Eskimo Dog. They love having daily activities and tasks, which help keep them engaged and well-behaved.
7. Basset Hound
With their short legs, long bodies, wrinkles, and impressive droopy ears, Basset Hounds are one of the most popular and easily recognized dog breeds. These dogs originate from France, where they were developed to track game for hunters.
Like other hounds bred for this purpose, Basset Hounds are not quiet dogs, so you can expect them to howl and bark more than other breeds. They were initially bred to be loud enough for hunters to hear them from several yards away.
Basset Hounds are also known to bark if left alone for too long, which can be a concern if you have close neighbors. They will alert you to anything interesting in the yard or if someone passes by your house.
ASPCA highlights that despite their reputation for being lazy, most Basset Hounds are eager to go for walks and enjoy moving at a leisurely pace. They have great endurance and will happily go for long strolls, though you should be prepared for many stops as they follow their noses and explore various scents.
8. American English Coonhound
Bred in the United States, the American English Coonhound is a medium-sized hunting breed known for its dedication to raccoon hunting. Like other hounds, this breed is very vocal, with a unique, expressive personality and a talkative nature. American English Coonhounds bark regularly and are consistent howlers, often “talking” to their owners when they need attention, food, or outdoor entertainment.
These agile, sleek, and muscular dogs are hardworking and possess great endurance, with the ability to even climb trees. They are extremely devoted pack dogs, making them sweet and affectionate pets for active owners.
With a very high energy level, American English Coonhounds thrive in active families, eagerly joining their owners for runs, hikes, or bike rides. This breed will require early socialization as puppies, as they are prone to certain behavioral issues, such as possessiveness over food or toys. Proper socialization helps them learn to interact positively with other dogs and people, reducing the likelihood of these issues developing.
9. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are a beautiful breed known for their strength, loyalty, and intelligence. One of their distinctive traits is howling, a natural behavior that allows them to express various emotions, such as excitement, anxiety, or loneliness, with other dogs and their owners.
As a majestic and dignified breed, Malamutes are highly intelligent and quick learners, but they can also be strong-willed. These loyal, devoted, and highly athletic dogs make affectionate family companions and enjoy outdoor activities.
According to Purina, Alaskan Malamutes have an insatiable need to run, love to dig and howl, and often exhibit escapologist tendencies. They also have a high prey drive for small, furry creatures like squirrels, cats, or even small dogs.
For owners who understand their needs and can provide the necessary care, Malamutes make outstanding and head-turning companions. With the right environment and plenty of physical activity, they can thrive and bring joy to their families.
Conclusion
Dogs howling is a natural behavior that spans various dog breeds, from ancient breeds like the Alaskan Malamute to modern breeds such as the Siberian Husky. Through selective breeding, certain breeds have retained this vocal trait, using it as a means of communication. Whether they are expressing excitement, anxiety, or loneliness, howling remains an important way dogs communicate with their pack and their human companions.
While howling can be a charming trait for some, it can also pose challenges for first-time pet owners. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and the specific needs of each dog breed can help potential owners choose the right companion dog. With proper training and socialization, even the most vocal breeds can become well-adjusted and harmonious members of the family.
