Now myself, i LOVE a vocal dog.
The little howls and awoos i just find super cute. However it is extremely important that we understand what our dogs vocals mean, and what different communication sounds our dogs do when they are trying to portray certain things.
Its a hugely common misconception that growling is a bad behaviour, when in reality growling is just one form on communication. Too many people believe that a growl is a warning, to scare others off. When growls can happen during play, or sometimes just a breed trait.
Anyone who has a dalmatian knows what it sounds like when 2 or more dalmatians play, its loud! Especially if they're playing a game of bitey face! Some breeds are just generally more vocal than others, like Beagles or Vislas or German Shepherds. While it may not be something their owners like, it doesnt mean barking or growling is bad. It is just how the dog is choosing to communicate.
A bark can mean frustration, excitement, a warning or more. A growl can be during play or as a signal to give someone space. Believe it or not some dogs do just whine and cry! Its not always bad!
Dogs have a language barrier to us and vice versa so they try their best to communicate, its our job to do our research and figure out what our dog is trying to tell us. Its extremely important we learn our own dogs communication indicators and not par them in the same barrell as every other dog.
My dog may be very vocal and bark to communicate but yours may not. However that doesnt make my dog aggressive or bad, it just means actually their a bit clearer about what they want.
Do yourself a favour as a dog owner and do some research into canine body language and communication. I promise you you wont forget it!
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