And as it turns out, dirt is a common culprit. Why do dogs eat dirt? Well there’s a couple common causes we’ll go over in this article, when it’s cause for concern, and how to stop the behavior.

Why Do Dogs Eat Dirt?

The most common causes for dogs eating dirt are mineral deficiencies, medical issues, and boredom and/or behavioral issues.

If your dog is eating dirt it’s important to take note of any changes in their behavior or environment. Since eating dirt can be a sign of a medical problem or mineral deficiency it’s important to figure out the reason behind it with a trip to the veterinarian.

Mineral Deficiencies Can Cause a Dog to Eat Dirt

Not all dog foods are the same, and not all foods provide the same level of nutrients for your dog, and dogs with hormonal issues might have trouble absorbing all the minerals and nutrients they need.

If your dogs diet is lacking any minerals they might start eating dirt as a way to make up for those nutritional deficiencies.

Since dietary deficiencies aren’t necessarily easy to recognize you should take a trip to your veterinarian for further analysis.

They’ll be able to rule out other medical issues for the dirt eating, as well as recommend a food brand or diet that can help make up for those nutrient deficiencies.

Medical Issues Can Cause Dogs to Eat Dirt

Dirt eating in dogs can be a sign of a medical problem. Anemia, malnutrition & stomach issues can cause Pica, which is defined as having an appetite for non-nutritious substances.

Pica isn’t just an odd behavior limited to dogs either. Having an appetite for non food items is commonly seen in pregnant women and small children, though dogs can develop it as well.

In addition to Pica, Diabetes, Cushing’s disease, and thyroid issues are just a few of the major medical issues that can lead to dogs developing an increased and unusual appetite.

If your dog is eating dirt book an appointment with your veterinarian so they can diagnose and/or rule out any major medical problems.

Boredom or Behavioral Issues Can Make Dogs Eat Dirt

If you don’t give your dog enough physical and mental exercise throughout the day they will come up with their own solutions to burn off that energy, and it often includes eating and chewing on all sorts of things.

If you’ve caught your dog digging and chewing on dirt in the backyard it might not necessarily be pica; it might just be that your dog is bored.

It’s not uncommon for dogs to get dirt all over their faces when in the midst of a digging session. So unless you see your dog out in the yard ingesting dirt you might want to try redirecting them from their digging by adding in a few more play sessions to their daily routine.

Not sure where to start? If your dog needs more physical exercise I recommend a flirt pole or game or frisbee. If you suspect your dog needs more mental stimulation you can try Kong Stuffing, trick training, or letting your dog sniff more on walks.

Is Eating Dirt Bad For Dogs?

Eating dirt can cause numerous issues in dogs. Not only is it a choking hazard, but it can cause life threatening obstructions. There’s also the worry of any toxins or pesticides in the dirt.

If your dog is eating dirt frequently or exhibiting any other behavioral changes it’s important to take them to the vet to determine the underlying cause and correcting their diet if need be.

If your dog is playing around in the dirt and you suspect it’s out of boredom you’re going to want to supervise them for awhile and redirect their attention. When you see your dog going for the dirt distract them with a fun toy or something more enjoyable until they learn that there’s plenty more exciting things to do in the yard other than play in the dirt.

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There’s also a few less common causes for nibbling, such as separation anxiety or boredom, but for the most part it’s a relatively harmless habit that many dog owners find endearing.

Why Do Dogs Nibble?

Nibbling, also called cobbing or corn cobbing, is when your dog gently nibbles on you (or another object or animal) with their front teeth. Dogs often nibble on things that bring them comfort, such as you or their favorite blanket, as a way to get closer to the object in their own special way.

Dogs Nibble to Show Affection

The most common a reason a dog will nibble you is to show affection, and you’ll often see mother dogs nibbling their pups. Nibbling is a form of grooming, and it’s a way for dogs to show affection with us or other animals.

Gathering Extra Information

Dogs have an an organ called the vomeronasal organ (also known as the Jacobson’s organ) located in their mouth that allows them to detect pheromones. It’s a secondary olfactory system that lets dogs decipher chemical communication.

As puppies this organ helps them find their mother while they’re still blind and deaf. In adult dogs the organ is used to get all sorts of extra chemical information that their noses can’t get by itself, such as mating status from other dogs.

Nibbling Feels Good

Nibbling can be a self soothing behavior for dogs. They nibble things that bring them comfort, and the behavior helps them relax by releasing feel good pheromones.

You might often see your dog lying down with their favorite blanket, gently nibbling as they nod off and fall asleep.

Because They’re Bored or Anxious

If your dog is obsessively nibbling or chewing things it could be our of boredom or anxiety, from either a lack or physical or mental exercise.

Like any habit, nibbling can be become destructive if not redirected towards something else.

If your dog obsessively nibbles or chews try adding in a few quick brain games to their daily routine. If you have a high energy dog they might benefit from some quick exercises to help wear them out. And for those days when it’s raining out there’s also plenty of ways to keep your dog busy indoors.

What to Do If You Don’t Want Your Dog Nibbling on Certain Objects

If your dog has been nibbling on a certain blanket and you’d like them to stop the best way is to use redirection.

Whenever they go for the blanket simply hand them an appropriate chew toy instead, and praise them when they redirect their attention onto it.

It might take a little while, but with positive reinforcement your dog will learn to go towards the chew toy for that extra praise.

Does Your Dog Nibble on You?

Does your dog nibble you? My dog does on occasion, but he usually saves it for the cats. And surprisingly they seem to love it. I was a little nervous at first that he might be too rough, but they absolutely adore it.

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The sleep startle reflex is an instinct in animals, and it’s one many of our domestic dogs carry. In this article we’ll go over why dogs have the reflex, and some practical tips to prevent the behavior.

Why Is My Dog Aggressive When Woken Up?

Simply put the sleep startle reflex that many dogs have is an instinct to protect themselves from danger. In the wild it’s a defense mechanism that helps keep animals safe when there’s an unknown disturbance nearby.

Those seconds upon waking can mean life or death, and it’s why they awake in an aggressive manner. And like many other instincts, it’s a trait some of our domestic dogs still carry.

It’s especially common in ex-racing greyhounds who grew up in a kennel environment, used to long periods of undisturbed sleep. Although being locked up in a kennel most of the day isn’t the “best” life for a dog, it is one that is predictable, which is why adapting to a normal home with a new routine and new disturbances can be quite an adjustment for some dogs.

Sleep startle is also seen in stray dogs, and those who grew up in a not so secure environment where being prepared for anything immediately upon waking kept them safe.

Of course the exact reason why some dogs have the sleep startle reflex and some don’t isn’t 100% clear, as well as the reason why some dogs seem to “grow out of it” while others have it for life.

Just because your dog exhibits sleep aggression doesn’t mean they’re an aggressive dog either, it’s seen in otherwise well adjusted dogs. Sometimes it’s simply caused by being in a new home or by a change in their environment.

How To Prevent Your Dog From Waking Up Aggressively

Keep in mind these tips aren’t going to be 100% successful for every dog. Some dogs may never “grow out of” the sleep startle reflex since it happens unconsciously, while others may get better over time.

Don’t feel bad if your dog’s sleep aggression isn’t cured overnight; remember that it’s not your fault. It’s a normal instinctive reflex, and it’s one that is much stronger in some dogs than others.

The best way to help prevent your dog from waking up aggressively is to give them their own bed, in a quiet area where they can feel secure. Easier said than done if you have other pets and children at home, but do your best to encourage everyone to leave the dog alone when they’re resting as to prevent any aggressive behaviors.

It’s also a good idea to wake up your dog with a verbal command when you need to get their attention, rather than coming up and startling them by touch.

As tempting as it may be, if your dog exhibits aggression in their sleep it’s probably a good idea not to have them sleep in bed with you. It’s impossible to predict if your movements at night might trigger their aggression, so a dog bed next to yours might be a better option.

Unfortunately you can’t simply train your dog out of sleep aggression, the best you can do is make sure they feel secure to lessen the chances of it happening.

If you punish your dog for waking up aggressively you’re just going to make them even more insecure in their surroundings, leading to even more behavioral issues. Remember; they’re not being aggressive on purpose; it’s an unconscious reflex.

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Does your dog get a lot of eye boogers? If so you’re not alone. I feel like I’m constantly wiping them off my dog. And if we’re taking pictures? Well it’s almost guaranteed that she’ll have a few.

Let’s take a quick look at why dogs get eye boogers, and what to look out for in terms of potential health concerns.

Why Do Dogs Get Eye Boogers?

While some eye discharge in dogs is completely normal, there are a few things to look out for such as yellow discharge or pus that could indicate a serious infection.

Why do dogs get eye boogers? In this article we’ll take a look at some of the common causes for canine eye discharge, and some of potentially dangerous symptoms to look out for. Here’s a brief look at five common causes of eye discharge in dogs.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis (also known as Pink Eye) is the inflammation of the tissue that covers the front part of the eyeball and lines the eyelids. The most common symptoms of canine conjunctivitis include eye discharge, excessive blinking, redness, and swelling around the eyes. It’s usually seen in both eyes, but in certain conditions only one may be affected.

Some of the common causes of conjunctivitis include viral infections such bacterial infections, allergies, eyelid abnormalities, glaucoma, tumors, trauma to the eye, or inflammation from environmental pollutants such as smoke. Depending on the cause treatment may include antibiotics, pain medication, antihistamines, and possible surgery to treat tear duct issues.

Canine Dry Eye

Canine dry eye, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a condition that results from inadequate tear production (or when they evaporate too quickly). Some of the common conditions that cause limited tear production that can lead to dry eye include hypothyroidism, canine distemper virus and immune disorders that damage the tear producing glands.

The symptoms of canine dry eye include irritation, redness, and discharge. Dogs with dry eye may blink or squint excessively, and some may hold their eyes shut. Usually both eyes are affected, though one eye may appear worse than the other. Canine dry eye can lead to Corneal ulceration, which due to the scarring it causes has the potential to impact your dog’s vision. Treatment depends on the severity, and may include artificial tears, antibiotics or surgery.

Epiphora

Ephiphora is another condition that can effect dogs, and in simple terms it’s an overflow of tears from the eyes. It’s often a symptom of something else going on, and is associated with a variety of conditions. So if your dog is having more eye discharge than normal it’s a good idea to take them to a vet to determine what the underlying cause is.

The most common signs are an over abundance of wetness around your dogs eyes, and a reddish or brown staining on the fur. If your dog has more wetness than usual around their eyes, or an abnormal amount of discharge your veterinarian can help you figure out the underlying cause. Depending on the cause treatment may include antibiotics, steroids or surgery.

Entropion

Entropion is a genetic condition where a portion of the eyelid is folded inward. This often causes the hair on surface of the eyelid to rub against the cornea, eventually leading to corneal ulceration or perforation. The damage can also lead to a build up of scar tissue which can interfere with vision.

The most common symptoms of entropion in dogs are squinting, excessive tears and mucus discharge from the outer corners of the eye. The treatment for entropion is corrective surgery.

Breed Specific Issues

Certain breeds of dogs, such as those with bulging eyes, are more susceptible to developing eye issues such as excessive eye boogers or discharge.

Exophthalmos is the bulging of the eye out of orbit, and it’s common among brachycephalic (short nosed) breeds such as Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs and Shih Tzus. Dogs with bulging eyes are more likely to have eye problems because their eyes are more exposed and accumulate a lot of foreign material.

Breeds with a lot of loose skin such as Bloodhounds and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to ectropion (eyelids that roll outward) and cherry eye, where a gland in the eyelid falls out of position.

Excessive or abnormal eye discharge can be a sign of something serious going on with your dog, so it’s best to have them checked by your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Resources & Recommended Reading

For more information on why dogs get eye boogers check out the following articles;

• Dog Eye Discharge Causes
• Why Does My Dog Have Mucus In His Eyes?
• How to Treat Cat & Dog Eye Discharge

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This article goes over the most common causes for scooting, how to identify the underlying issue, and some steps you can take to prevent it.

Why Do Dogs Drag Their Butts on the Floor?

Have you noticed your dog dragging their butt across the floor or grass? It’s called scooting, and it’s a common behavior in dogs that can have various causes. Dogs drag their butt on the floor due to irritation, and the cause of that irritation ranges from inflammation to infection. The most common reasons for anus irritation in dogs include:

• Anal gland issues
• Tapeworms
• Excess fecal matter
• Allergies

And although watching your dog drag their butt across your carpet isn’t desirable it’s important not to punish them — they’re doing it because they’re uncomfortable. Figuring out what’s causing the irritation can be tricky, but once you do you’ll be able to alleviate their discomfort and prevent them from scooting.

Anal Gland Issues Can Cause Irritation & Scooting

Anal glands (also referred to as anal sacs) becoming full is the most common reason for dogs scooting their butts on the floor. It’s not the most pleasant issue to talk about, but anal gland issues are fairly common and affect many pets.

Anal glands are a pair of sacs located on either side of your dog’s anus. The sacs are lined with oil & sweat glands, and the fluid they secrete is quite pungent. One of the first symptoms dogs exhibit when an anal sac becomes impacted is scooting their butts on the floor.

Some dogs are prone to getting impacted anal glands, often due to a thicker fluid that’s unable to pass to the outside. This can lead to the sac becoming infected and causing a lot of pain and irritation, and if left unattended can require surgery to fix.

If you suspect your dog may have an anal gland issue consult your veterinarian. Technically you can empty your dog’s anal glands yourself, but if you’ve never done it before have your veterinarian teach you how to perform the procedure. They can also check to make sure there’s no other underlying issues going on.

Tapeworms Can Cause Dogs to Drag Their Butts on the Ground

Another common reason why dogs drag their butts on the ground is tapeworms. Tapeworms are acquired by ingesting an infected host, and when it comes to dogs that’s usually a flea.

One of the symptoms of tape worms is scooting their butt across the floor due to the irritation that tapeworm segments cause to the area. Worms mature in your dog’s intestines, and tapeworm segments can cause irritation as they exit through your dog’s anus. The segments are small, but upon close examination you may be able to spot them around your dog’s rear end (they look like tiny little white or golden colored pieces of rice).

Tapeworm segments are only passed intermittently and therefore are often not diagnosed on routine fecal examination. If you find any segments, white or golden color, bring them to your veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis. – VCA Animal Hospitals

If you suspect your dog has tapeworms consult your veterinarian. After making a proper diagnosis they can prescribe a de-worming treatment.

Excess Fecal Matter Can Cause Your Dog to Drag His Behind on the Ground

Excess fecal matter that gets stuck around your dog’s rear end is another reason why dogs drag their butts on the ground. Referred to as Canine Pseudocoprostasis (or dingleberries), fecal matter that gets stuck on or hangs from the fur surrounding your dog’s anus can cause your dog to scoot his butt on the floor in order to shake it loose.

In long haired dogs this can become a chronic condition, and prevention is the best method for managing it. If the hair around your dog’s butt is trimmed it’s much less likely to get stuck in the hair. When left untreated the matting can make it harder for your dog to poop, and complete obstruction of the anus can occur.

Allergies Can Cause Irritation That Leads to Scooting

Skin irritation caused by allergies can cause your dog to drag their butt on the floor. Allergic reactions to food, fleas or other environmental substances can cause a lot of irritation — including to your dog’s rear end. Some of the most common dog allergies include:

• Food
• Fleas
• Cigarette smoke
• Pollens
• Mold Spores
• Medications

Some allergies may be easy to identify — such as a diet change or flea infestation — but others, such as environmental substances like dust or pollen, may be trickier to identify. If you think your dog may have allergies but aren’t sure what’s causing them check with your veterinarian for help determining what’s causing your dog’s allergies.

How to Reduce Your Dog’s Scooting

While scooting itself isn’t a medical emergency it is a behavior that warrants investigation. Dog’s scoot when their rear end is irritated, so unless you address the cause of that irritation your dog is going to continue to scoot to help alleviate their discomfort.

If you can’t figure out what’s causing your dog’s rear end to become irritated it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Identifying and managing the underlying issue will prevent your dog from scooting, and best of all it’ll make your dog feel a whole lot better.

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Why Do Dogs Take So Long to Poop?

Why do dogs take so long to poop? Well, like so many things in life there isn’t just one simple answer.

The reason why dogs take so long to defecate has to do with a couple different things; it has to do with smell, social signals, and even aligning with magnetic fields.

From aligning with the Earth’s magnetic fields to responding to social cues from other dogs, dogs have good reasons to take their time when it comes to finding that perfect spot to squat.

Dogs Have Their Own Internal Poop Compass

First things first, you’re probably wondering what in the world dog poop has to do with magnetic fields. Well, as it turns out dogs use their own poop compass when going to the bathroom. Research suggests that dogs poop according to the Earth’s magnetic field.

When researchers looked into how & where dogs defecate they found that they have a desire to line up on a north-south axis. Scientists reason that dogs use a magnetic sense when it comes to deciding when, where & how they poop. And that spinning around some dogs do before they squat? Researchers also believe that’s an attempt to help align themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field.

And while this phenomenon may seem really weird it isn’t unique to dogs; it’s been suggested that cattle & foxes also line up preferentially on Earth’s magnetic field lines when defecating.

Scent Marking & Social Cues Plays a Big Role

When it comes to why dogs take so long to go to the bathroom don’t underestimate the role of scent marking. It’s an instinctual behavior where dogs deposit their urine or feces to make a statement. When dogs eliminate they’re not just doing it to relieve themselves, they’re also doing it to leave all sorts of information on the ground.

It’s an instinctual behavior found in wolves i.e. leaving scent marks around the edges of their territory to send a signal for others to “keep out,” and it’s a behavior that’s also found in our domesticated dogs. And while territory marking may be the most well known type of scent making it’s certainly not the only one.

When our dogs defecate they’re leaving messages on the ground (often referred to as “pee mail“), and those messages can relay all sorts of information such as how many dogs are in the area, whether they’re friendly or not, and sexual status i.e. whether a female dog is in heat. These social cues from other dogs can impact when and where your dog goes to the bathroom. And in many instances the scent of another dog can trigger the urge to defecate.

Every Dog Is An Individual

While we know the main reasons behind why dogs take so long to poop it’s important to keep in mind that every dog is an individual with their own quirks and preferences. Some dogs are more picky than others when it comes to finding the perfect spot to squat, and others seem to do it effortlessly.

If your dog does take a long time to go to the bathroom and you’d like to speed it up the process you can go back to the basics and help reinforce a potty command (remember to be consistent and use lots of praise).

So remember, if your dog takes a long time to decide where to poop don’t don’t get mad. They’re not doing it to spite you, there is a perfectly good scientific explanation for it.

Resources & Recommended Reading

Why Does My Dog Take His Time When Pooping – Barkpost
Why Is My Dog Such a Picky Pooper? – Wired
Why Is My Dog So Picky About Where to Poop? – I Heart Dogs

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While it is true that there are a few potential benefits to wound licking, it’s important to keep in mind that the risks outweigh the benefits, especially if you’re talking about a large wound.

In this article we’ll look at why dogs lick their wounds, the risks associated with wound licking, and how to prevent your dog from licking their wounds.

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Wounds?

Why do dogs lick their wounds? In short dogs lick their wounds because it can promote healing and relieve pain. And although licking can help the healing process in some wounds it can also cause more harm than good (more on that below).

Wound licking is an instinctive response in dogs, and it’s one that’s found in many other animals such as cats, primates and rodents. Their mouth is the only tool they have at their disposal to try to clean up wounds. They can’t go to the medicine cabinet and grab some disinfectant, so they use the only thing they’ve got — their mouth. It’s the only way they know how to help themselves heal.

Why licking? Well, saliva contains some beneficial materials that can help promote healing. It contains a protein called tissue factor (also called platelet tissue factor) that can help promote blood clotting. Dog saliva also contains Opiorphin (an endogenous chemical compound), which acts as a painkiller.

The History Behind Wound Licking

The belief that wound licking can have some curative effects has been around for ages, and in the past we utilized dogs to help heal some of our own wounds.

The belief that dog saliva can help heal wounds goes all the way back to ancient Egyptian times. The Egyptians believed that being licked by a dog, especially on an open wound, helped aid in recovery and cure illnesses.

In ancient Greece, dogs at the shrine of Aesculapius (a hero and god of medicine) were trained to lick patients. And in Armenian culture Aralezes (dog-like creatures or spirits) descended from the sky to lick the wounds of the fallen so they could resurrect.

We don’t use those methods anymore thanks to modern medicine, but our dogs still do. And while licking minor wounds may not cause much of a problem for your dog the big ones can.

The Dangers Of Letting Your Dog Lick Their Wounds

Although wound licking has a few potential benefits there are some major risks involved. Wound licking can slow down the healing process, and in some cases it can make things much worse by causing infections.

Dogs have billions of bacteria inside their mouth, and many of them have the potential to cause infections. Bacteria that’s harmless inside your dog’s mouth such as Pasteurella can cause serious infections if introduced into a wound.

The friction caused by licking can also reopen old wounds by breaking down tissue. That can leave them susceptible to infection and debris, and slow down the healing process altogether.

Surgery sites are especially dangerous when it comes to licking, since it can break down sutures and reopen the wound. Incisions can be itchy and irritating, and many dogs will respond by licking or chewing at the affected area. And since surgery wounds are often large and deep the chances of infection are pretty high if your dog is allowed to lick the area.

How to Prevent Your Dog From Licking Their Wounds

When it comes to preventing your dog from licking their wounds you can use an E-collar, a bandage, a t-shirt, or distraction techniques in the case of minor wounds.

If your dog has had surgery your veterinarian probably already sent you home with an E-collar and instructions on how long to keep it on for. Although no one enjoys the cone of shame it’s important to remember that in the long run it’s for their own good. They’re designed to prevent your dog from licking their wounds, and to prevent them from inadvertently slowing down the healing process.

In some smaller wounds you can use a bandage to prevent your dog from licking the area, but it’s important to keep in mind some dogs will remove their bandage and get back to licking the moment you’re not looking.

If you’re concerned about any wounds on your dog consult with your veterinarian. They’ll be able to access your dog’s injury, give you treatment options if applicable, and let you know which method is appropriate for preventing wound licking.

And if you’re not a fan of E-collars (I don’t think anyone is) ask your veterinarian if any of the alternatives would be suitable. Depending on where your dog’s wound is they may be able to recommend an alternative to an E-collar that’s not quite as intrusive.

If you’re dealing with a minor wound you may be able to get away with using distraction techniques such as brain games or food puzzles to keep your dog busy. Just remember to keep an eye on your dog when they’re not actively engaged with something, since they might go right back to licking their wound.

Conclusion

Why do dogs lick their wounds? Because it can help promote healing and relive pain. And although dog saliva may have some healing properties when it comes to wound licking the risks outweigh the benefits. Wound licking can actually slow down the healing process, and in some instances it can cause serious infections.

If your dog has a new wound that you’re concerned about, or one that won’t heal please consult your veterinarian. There’s plenty of treatment options available, and they’ll be able to come up with the treatment that’s right for your dog.

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But Laika? Well she howls all the time — she does it when there’s a squirrel in the yard, she does it when she hears high pitched noises, she does it when she hears sirens, and she even does it when she’s sleeping (dream howling is what I like to call it).

So why do dogs howl anyways? Why do some dogs howl all the time, while others stick to barking and whining? Below we’ll take a look at why dogs howl, why some dogs howl more than others, and what types of howling are cause for concern.

Why Do Dogs Howl?

Howling is a form of vocal communication for dogs, just like barking and whining. It’s a natural instinct leftover from their wolf ancestors that’s used to communicate with the pack. Wolves howl to communicate with each other, and it’s a behavior that’s been carried over to our dogs. The most common reasons why dogs howl include:

• Making contact with others
• Signaling distress
• Warning predators
• Attracting attention
• In response to high pitched noises
• Pain or discomfort
• Separation anxiety

So in short the reason why dogs howl is usually to sound an alert, attract attention, make contact with others or to signal a change in circumstances. Howling can also occur as a direct response to certain high pitched noises such as alarms.

When To Be Concerned About Howling

While most of the above reasons aren’t too concerning there are a few types of howling that are worrisome — howling during separation anxiety for example, and howling as a way to communicate pain or discomfort. Below we’ll go further into the reasons why our dogs howl, and what types of howling are cause for concern.

Howling To Sound An Alert/Get Attention

One of the more common causes of howling is to attract attention to a change in circumstances. If your dog is looking out the window and they see what they perceive as an intruder in the yard they might howl to signal an alarm. In this context it’s a defense mechanism — a way ensure their family or pack knows about the change in circumstances, and a way to ward off approaching predators.

Howling In Response To High Pitched Noises

Some dogs start howling in response to certain noises, including the sound of other dogs howling or high pitched noises such as alarms. My dog Laika howls in response to a lot of things — including the harmonica or singing. Some dogs are more prone than others to howl in response to noises, while others prefer sticking to barking.

Howling to sirens in particular is quite common, as you can see by the video below. If you want to make your dog howl you can try playing the video below. However, if you already have a howler at home you may want to turn down the volume.

Howling In Response To Pain or Discomfort

Some dogs howl as a response to pain or discomfort as a way to communicate that something’s wrong. Howling can be caused by illness or injury, so if your dog starts howling more frequently (or out of the blue) and there’s no direct cause that you can see it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Howling Caused By Separation Anxiety

Does your dogs howling drive your neighbors mad when you’re at work? If your dog howls when you’re away from home there is reason to be concerned — your dog may have separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is when dogs get uncomfortable and anxious when they’re away from their owners.

Some dogs will howl as a way to contact their lost pack or family members, which is why it’s commonly seen in dogs with separation anxiety. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms of separation anxiety such as drooling, pacing, destructive behavior or indoor elimination.

Tip: If your dog howls and gets anxious when you leave for work check out this guide on managing canine separation anxiety. It can be a tough issue to manage, and unfortunately it’s one that gets worse over time if not properly addressed. If your dog shows signs of anxiety when you leave I recommend reaching out to a dog trainer or behaviorist in your area.

Why Do Some Dogs Howl More Than Others?

Some dogs howl more than others — and some dogs just stick to barking. Some of that’s based on the individual dog, and some of it’s influenced by their breed. Just as some breeds are known for barking, some breeds are prone to howling. Huskies, German Shepherds and Beagles (and many other hounds) tend to howl more than others.

Some dogs howl in direct response to certain sounds (usually high pitched ones). If you want to get your dog to howl you can try howling yourself or watching some videos with dogs howling or siren sounds.

What Makes Your Dog Howl?

What gets your dog howling? Do they howl at the sound or sirens or when someone knocks at the door? Does your dog howl the instant you start singing, or is that just me? I’ve always assumed it was Laika’s special way of saying “hey lady, you know you’re really off key, right?”

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While snoring in dogs can be normal, it can also be a symptom of an underlying health issue. If your dog has suddenly started snoring, or if you’re not sure why your dog is snoring it’s a good idea to have them checked out by your vet. Here’s a look at the common causes of snoring in dogs.

Why Do Dogs Snore?

When it comes to understanding why dogs snore it’s important to first take a look at what causes snoring to begin with. Snoring itself happens when air gets restricted as it tries to pass through the throat or nasal cavity. The sound we know as snoring is caused by vibrations of the upper airway, typically during inhalation. In humans snoring is often caused by obstructive sleep apnea, but that’s a rare diagnosis in dogs.

So why do dogs snore? Snoring itself isn’t an illness, it’s a symptom. And it can be caused by anything from extra weight to your dog’s anatomy, so it’s important to have your dog checked out if they’re snoring more than usual. Here’s a list of the common causes of snoring in dogs.

Your Dog’s Sleeping Position Can Cause Snoring

Does your dog sleep on his back? If so he’s more likely to snore. Approximately 5-10% of dogs sleep with their bellies up, and it’s a position that’s associated with snoring in dogs & humans alike. When dogs lie on their back to sleep the base of their tongue can fall back into their throat, blocking air from getting into their passageways.

Some Breeds Are More Prone to Snoring

Any amount of restricted airflow can cause snoring in dogs, and some breeds are more susceptible than others. Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses) such as Pugs, Bulldogs & Boston Terriers are more prone to snoring than other dogs due to their short air passage. Their upper respiratory anatomy is abnormally short, which can frequently lead to airway obstructions.

Extra Weight Can Cause Your Dog to Snore

Being overweight is one of the common causes for snoring in humans, and it’s true for dogs as well. Extra weight leads to extra tissue, and any extra tissue around the nose and throat can narrow their airway, leading to restricted air flow and snoring.

Tip: If your dog needs to lose weight check out 5 daily habits that help keep your dog fit.

Allergies Can Cause Snoring in Dogs

Dogs that have allergies may be more prone to snoring due to airway restriction and congestion. If you have allergies you know how bad congestion can get, and how breathing through your nose itself can become difficult. Allergens can cause mucus buildup and airway restriction, both of which increase the likelihood of snoring.

Secondhand Smoke Can Cause Snoring in Dogs

Just like with humans, secondhand smoke can cause respiratory issues and snoring in dogs by irritating the lungs and airways. Secondhand smoke can damage your dog’s respiratory system, leading to bronchitis, asthma and snoring.

Other Causes for Snoring in Dogs

Dental issues, infections, and growths can all cause your dog to snore, which is why it’s important to have your dog checked out by your vet to determine the cause.

Snoring is a symptom, not an illness. If your dog has suddenly started snoring, or if they’re experiencing interrupted sleep have them checked out by your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.

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Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian, this article is for informational purposes only.

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And before we begin I want to clarify one thing; this article is about dogs & cuddling, not hugging. There’s plenty of controversy over whether or not dogs like hugs. This isn’t about that.

This is about cuddling. Those moments when our dogs choose to be right next to us, the times when our dogs initiate closeness to us. So why do dogs like to cuddle anyway?

Dogs Like Cuddling Because It Provides Warmth

Why do dogs like to cuddle? The biggest clue as to why dogs enjoy cuddling comes from the definition itself: “to cuddle is to hold close for warmth or comfort or in affection.”

If you’ve ever seen a puppy pile you know how adorable it is. But aside from being the cutest thing ever, the behavior makes sense from an evolutionary standpoint. Puppies snuggle with one another to keep warm. When you get cold you can snuggle up under a blanket or put on some extra layer, for our dogs it’s not quite that simple.

Cuddling with humans was an important part of canine domestication. Early dogs helped us hunt and alerted us to danger, but we also helped each other out by cuddling and keeping each other warm. In fact, the term “three dog night” refers to those really cold nights when humans had to cuddle up with 3 dogs to keep from freezing to death.

For thousands of years dogs and humans have been cuddling up with each other to stay warm.

Dogs Like to Cuddle Because It Provides Affection

When it comes to dogs cuddling isn’t just about warmth — it’s also a way to show affection. Cuddling, and showing affection in general, is one way in which our dogs strengthen their bond with us. Researchers have even found that bonding with their owners is more important to dogs than it is to other pets (sorry cat lovers).

The long evolutionary relationship we’ve had with dogs has reinforced many of the traits we see today in our pet dogs. We have a very intimate bond with our dogs, and that feeling seems to be mutual. There’s a special bond between humans and dogs, and it’s demonstrated by the amount of affection we show one another, and that includes cuddling up together.

The Science Behind Why Dogs Cuddle

Cuddling is also a great stress reliever. Petting and talking to a dog for just a few minutes has been shown to increase oxytocin levels in both dogs and humans. Oxytocin, often referred to as the love hormone, is associated with social bonding and trust. New research found that human-dog interactions can elicit the same positive hormonal response that mothers have with their infants.

Mutual gazing had a profound effect on both the dogs and their owners. Of the duos that had spent the greatest amount of time looking into each other’s eyes, both male and female dogs experienced a 130% rise in oxytocin levels, and both male and female owners a 300% increase. – How Dogs Stole Our Hearts

Researchers suggest that the strong ability of dogs to bond with humans played a crucial role in their domestication. The theory is that in the wild the dogs that were able to bond with humans were the ones that received human care and protection. And yes, much of that bonding surely included cuddles.

The ability of dogs to bond with their owners is thought to be a major role in their domestication.

Why Do Some Dogs Cuddle More Than Others?

So why do some dogs like to cuddle more than others? Well genetics is certainly one part of it. Some dog breeds have been bred to be independent and less affectionate, while others are bred for the opposite.

Certain breeds such as the Maltese, Pomeranian and Yorkshire Terrier have been bred to be lap dogs. Lap dogs are small enough to be held in our lap, and to have a temperament predisposed to be big cuddlers.

But there’s more than just genetics at work. Some dogs are just more affectionate than others. Some dogs don’t cuddle much, if at all. My previous dog Carter had a funny way of showing affection. He was a total velcro dog (followed me around everywhere), yet he wasn’t fond of cuddling. At least not when touching was involved.

He’d get up on the couch with me, but he’d stay a few inches away. I called it his ‘personal space’ issue. Now when bad weather was on the way? He’d jump into my lap in a heartbeat. So he’d still come to me for comfort when he was afraid, but daily cuddles weren’t his thing.

Dogs have their own unique personalities, and not all of them are super cuddly or affectionate. Dogs are just like people in that way; some people love hugs, and other are a little more standoffish.

Why Your Dog Cuddles Less in the Summer

Some dogs don’t like to cuddle because of the heat. Laika loves to cuddle, but there’s a definite slow down when it comes to cuddle time in the summer. Our dogs have a higher body temperature than we do, and it’s harder for them to cool down. And since cuddling produces a lot of heat your dog might not cuddle much when it’s hot out because they’re just trying to keep cool.

Does your dog cuddle less in the summer? Don’t take it personally, your dog is just trying to keep cool.

Does Your Dog Like to Cuddle?

Is your dog super affectionate? Does your dog cuddle with you on a daily basis? Do you enjoy cuddling up with your dog in the winter? Let me know in the comments below.

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