When it comes to the various noises dogs make, whether it be barking, whimpering, or whining, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what they are trying to communicate. These sounds can mean any number of things, so it is important to get to know your dog and learn what they are trying to tell you. If your dog is whining excessively, here are some possible reasons why.
Common Reasons for Dog Whining
In general, if your dog is whining they are trying to convey the desire for something. This could be any number of things including but not limited to:
- They want food
- They want water
- They are too hot or too cold
- They need to go to the bathroom
- They are looking for a toy
- They want to play or would like your attention
Whimpering and whining is instinctual in dogs, but it can also be a learned behavior. In fact, it doesn’t take long for most dogs to realize that if they always get what they want by whining, they’ll feel encouraged to keep doing it. Just like barking dogs can drive people crazy, so too can a dog that is constantly whining for every little thing.
Other things that can lead to excessive whining include separation anxiety and age related cognitive decline in dogs, most commonly from dementia. In certain situations, you may want to consult a veterinarian to understand the cause of your dogs whining, but if it is determined to be a behavioral issue, reaching out to an experienced dog trainer can help to dissuade problem behaviors.
One important thing to note is that most dogs will not whine or whimper if they are in chronic pain. They may let out a cry if you accidentally step on them or after a surgery, but dogs with constant pain over a period of time will rarely let it be known vocally.