Скачать или смотреть How to Stop Your Dog From Whining | Chewtorials

Dog whining can leave pet parents concerned, perplexed and frustrated. Find out how to understand the many possible reasons behind dog whining and how to best support your four-legged companion in such instances.
Why Is My Dog Whining? 7 Possible Reasons
Much like their puppy counterparts, adult dogs may whine for many reasons:
1. Seeking Attention
2. Expressing Pain or Discomfort
3. Expressing Fear or Stress
4. Expressing Boredom
5. Wanting Something
6. Separation Anxiety
7. Communicating Excitement
What to Do About Excessive Whining in Dogs
1. Rule Out a Medical Problem
First, it’s essential to ensure your dog isn’t experiencing a medical issue.
Your dog may have a medical condition if their whining:
Started suddenly
Is frequent or persistent
Is intense
Is accompanied by signs of distress such as lethargy, loss of appetite or other unusual behavior
Doesn’t seem connected to any fleeting emotion or desire such as excitement or desire for attention, food or a toy
If you suspect your dog’s whining could be due to a medical condition (or you’re unsure), consult a veterinarian ASAP. It’s important to rule out any potential health problems that could be causing your dog’s discomfort.
2. Identify the Trigger
Once medical reasons are ruled out, it’s time to identify the underlying cause or trigger of your pup’s whining.
Examples include:
If your dog has been in the house for several hours without a pee break, their whining could be due to needing a potty break.
If your dog whines when you take out their leash, it’s likely an expression of excitement.
If your dog whines when you put them in a crate, they’re likely expressing dissatisfaction with being confined in the crate.
If your dog whines when you’re engaged in a conversation, they might be seeking your attention.
If your dog starts whining around the time you usually feed them, they’re likely expressing a desire to eat.
3. Understand the Difference Between Critical Issues and Non-Critical Issues
Striking a balance between being a responsive dog parent and not giving in to every little whimper from your dog is crucial.
Some instances in which you should attend to your dog’s whining ASAP include:
Immediate potty needs: If it’s been several hours since your dog has had a chance to go potty and they’re whining, promptly take them outside to see if they need to do their business.
Signs of pain or physical discomfort: If your dog is displaying signs of pain or discomfort, visiting a vet to understand the issue is imperative.
Fear from external factors: When a dog’s whines stem from anxiety due to external factors, such as thunder or fireworks, overlooking them can intensify their distress. It’s important to help your dog grow accustomed and comfortable with such stimuli.
Beyond those instances, most other whines signal that your dog:
Wants something from you (i.e., food, attention, a toy, etc.)
Is excited
Is communicating displeasure about something (i.e., being in a crate)
It’s crucial to remember that behaviors that are constantly rewarded will persist. Hence, if you attend to your dog each time they whine in noncritical situations, they’ll learn that whining is the best way to get what they want.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement Training for Non-Critical Issues
It's important to teach your dog that calm behavior is more effective in getting your attention or action.
The key is to reward quiet moments and consistent good behavior—not whining. Avoid scolding your dog for whining, as this can elevate your dog’s anxiety and erode trust.
5. Provide Adequate Physical and Mental Stimulation
To keep boredom at bay, your dog needs to get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, attention from you and interactive toys can help reduce boredom-driven whining.
6. Desensitize Your Dog to Feared Stimuli
If fear or stress is causing your dog to whine, you can work with your dog to create positive associations with the feared stimulus.
Let’s say your dog is scared of fireworks. Here’s how to desensitize your dog to this stimulus:
Find an audio recording of fireworks
Play the recording at a very low volume (one that your dog doesn’t respond to fearfully).
While the recording is playing, feed them dinner, give them a treat or play with their favorite toy.
In your next session, play the recording a little louder while you feed them or play with their favorite toy.
Continue increasing the volume each session over several weeks or months. If your dog displays fearful behavior while playing the audio, stop immediately. Begin your next session at a lower volume that doesn’t cause anxiety and proceed more slowly.
7. Work with a Professional Trainer or Behaviorist
If your dog’s whining continues despite your efforts or if it’s linked to a more complex issue such as persistent separation anxiety, consider working with a professional dog trainer or a canine behaviorist. They can provide specialized guidance and techniques to help address your dog’s specific needs.