Why Dogs Whine. Do you have a Whining Dog?

No one likes to listen to a “whiner,” not even if the whiner is your adorable loving dog. But before you can stop the whining you have to understand why dogs whines.

Dogs whine as a way of communicating their feelings. A dog may whine to express if it is upset, scared, or in pain. Whining is a behavioral response related to being upset or feeling abandoned by its pack. However, if a dog that never whines suddenly starts to, be concerned. The dog may be hurt or sick, and should be taken to its vet immediately for a health examination.

There are times when a dog will whine to express feelings of abandonment or fear, and the whine is then a "warning" whine or cry for help. Some dogs whine when they are separated from their owners. Other dogs whine when they want attention or want to play, much like a child.

Remember punishing or scolding a dog for whining is never an appropriate way to deal with this behavior, as it only increases the dog’s anxiety level. The way to deal with a whining dog after identifying the reason for whining is to spend quality-training time working with the dog to lower the dog’s anxiety.

If your dog whines when separated from you, begin working with your dog to accept short periods of time when you will be away. Overtime, working up to longer periods of time. Leave your dog in the same area every time so the dog will associate its environment as comfortable and safe.

The hardest challenge to overcome as a loving dog owner is the sound of your dog being afraid, but if you return to the room to their rescue, your dog will learn that “whining dog” or “crying wolf” works. Be strong for your dog, he or she will be much happier for it.

If your dog is whining for attention, you’ll want to spend some quality time playing and or going for longer walks together. When playtime is over you will need to give the command “All Done.” If your dog begins to whine try ignoring it. If ignoring the whining does not make your dog stop, then calmly tell your dog to “stop whining.” If this command is does not work, then be firm and tell your dog to "Be quiet!" Eventually, your dog should understand when it is playtime and when it time to rest.

It’s important to have patience when training your dog, as your dog wants to understand you, and please you. Remember your dog is always good. A whining dog is not a bad dog, but rather a dog with a need.