Is your dog growling and are you looking for explanations for this phenomenon? You don’t know why he’s doing this, or how to stop him? We explain everything there is to know about dog growling!
What is growling?
Growling is a form of warning, meaning “leave me alone.” It is also an attempt (not always successful) to put an end to unpleasant situations. Your dog may not want to fight over food with another dog or may not want to be disturbed from his sleep.
This behavior can be compared to that of humans who say “no” when they don’t like something or who start to complain. In case of confrontation, the growl is accompanied by a dominant body position, an open mouth and exposed canines. This way your dog demonstrates his position in the pack. If the warning is not heeded and he has sufficiently expressed his displeasure, he may resort to attack or fight.
Why does my dog start growling?
He’s trying to tell you that he doesn’t appreciate being disturbed by strangers, children, or other pets. He may have reached his tolerance level after being disturbed several times during the day.
When does your dog growl?
- When a stranger approaches him or tries to pet him on the head or neck. If your pet has experienced unpleasant behavior from people, it will react even more fiercely.
- When his sleep or rest is disturbed. Sometimes a dog may be in a deep sleep and not want to wake up because of strangers or other animals passing by.
- At mealtimes, when another animal disturbs him while he eats or if he is guarding a bowl of food against another animal. – When he is cornered and cannot escape.
- When a toy, bone or other possession is taken from him.
What can make your dog growl
There is nothing more disturbing than seeing your dog growl for no apparent reason. It is important to understand that dogs growl for several reasons, such as fear, protecting their territory or social status. Certain factors can aggravate this situation such as aggressive behavior in other dogs or loud noises.
If your dog growls regularly, it is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons for this behavior. In any case, it is important not to punish the dog when it growls, as this could make the situation worse. Instead, try to understand the reason for the growling and find a solution to help your pet feel more secure.
How to stop your dog from growling?
Growing – like any other unwanted behavior – can be stopped using several different techniques
1. You can use a firm voice and say “no” or “stop it” in a very authoritative tone. If you don’t succeed, try another technique…
2. With your index finger, form a hook and place it on the dog’s nose, between the eyes and above the upper lip. Apply pressure to this point for about ten seconds so that your dog lowers his nose to the ground. This should deter him from growling and prevent him from becoming aggressive.
3. You can use a spray like “lemongrass” (available at most pet stores) which gives off an unpleasant odor when sprayed on the dog’s nose. The unpleasant odor will stop your dog from growling and may even make him more aggressive.
4. A nasty sound will also work, but you may have to use it a few times before your dog stops growling. Try the “silent” method, placing one or two fingers on your lips and making an “unpleasant” noise with your mouth; This should make him stop growling immediately!
5. An electric shock from a collar will make it stop growling the first few times you use it. However, after a while he may simply “tolerate” the growling and not be deterred by the shock.
6. An unpleasant taste can also work, for example putting a few drops of hot sauce on your fingers and touching your nose or tongue. If you don’t like the taste of hot sauce, try lemon juice or vinegar.
Conclusion & Opinion
Dog growling is a natural way for them to communicate their displeasure or warn someone. It is important to understand when and why your dog growls, so that you can react and stop this behavior. Several techniques can be used, such as using a firm voice, applying pressure to specific points on one’s body, spraying an unpleasant odor, making an unpleasant noise or administration of an electric shock. With patience and persistence, you should be able to stop your dog from growling.
*Updated 22 July 2024
