Corgis are known for their cute appearance and lively personality. However, if your corgi has developed a howling habit, it can be confusing and sometimes a little troublesome. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior is crucial for any corgi owner, as it can help address the root cause and manage or even stop the howling.
Natural instinct and heredity
Grazing background
Corgis were originally bred as sheepdogs. In the past, they would use their voices to communicate with shepherds and control the movement of livestock. Howling may be a way to signal to shepherds that the flock is moving, or to alert them to any potential problems. This instinctive behavior has been passed down through generations. For example, if a corgi senses something is amiss in its environment, such as an unfamiliar noise or the presence of an unknown animal, it may howl as a “herd” or a way of protecting its perceived territory. It’s similar to how they used to pen sheep.
Communication within the group
In a social environment, dogs communicate with each other through a variety of sounds, including howls. Corgis, even though they are now mostly domesticated, still retain some of this pack behavior. They may howl to call for other dogs nearby, as if trying to establish a connection or communicate their presence. This is especially true when they hear other dogs howling. It’s as if they join the canine conversation, instinctively following the lead of their companions.
Separation anxiety
The contract with the owner
Corgis are known for their strong attachment to their owners. When left alone for long periods of time, they experience separation anxiety. Howling is one way they express their pain. They may feel upset and scared when their owner is not around, and howling is a way to try to get their attention or call them back. For example, if you go to work and your corgi is not used to being alone, it may start howling soon after you leave and continue until you return. This behavior can be quite distressing for both the dog and the neighbors.
Signs of separation anxiety
In addition to howling, other signs of corgi separation anxiety include pacing, disruptive behavior (such as chewing on furniture or digging holes in doors), excessive barking, and inappropriate elimination. If you notice these behaviors as well as howling, your corgi is likely suffering from separation anxiety. It’s important to address this issue because if left untreated, it can lead to long-term stress and behavioral problems.
Environmental inducement
Noise and sound
Loud or unusual noises can cause a corgi to howl. Thunderstorms, fireworks, sirens, and even the sound of a vacuum cleaner can shock them and cause them to howl. These sounds are overwhelming to their sensitive ears, and howling may be their way of expressing discomfort or fear. For example, during thunderstorms, roar and lightning are very frightening to corgis. They may howl, try to drown out the noise or seek comfort.
The presence of other animals
Seeing or smelling the scent of other animals, especially if they are outside and can be seen or felt, can prompt a corgi to howl. This could be a neighbor’s dog, a passing cat, or even a wild animal. Their instinct to protect their territory or interact with other animals kicks in. If they see a strange dog in the yard next door, they may howl to signal their presence or communicate with other animals.
Boredom and lack of stimulation
Activity need
A corgi is an active and intelligent dog. If they don’t get enough physical and mental stimulation, they get bored. Boredom can cause them to howl excessively as a way to release pent-up energy. A corgi left home alone all day with nothing to do may howl out of boredom. They need regular exercise, playtime and opportunities to engage their minds, such as through educational toys or training sessions.
Mental stimulation
In addition to physical activity, corgis need intellectual challenge. Without them, they get agitated and then howl. Simple games like hide and seek or learning new tricks can provide the mental stimulation they need. Without these opportunities, they may look for other ways to amuse themselves, and howling is one of those ways.
Medical reason
Pain or discomfort
If a corgi is in pain, it may howl. Dental problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, can cause significant pain in the mouth. As they get older, joint pain, such as arthritis, is common in corgis and can also make them uncomfortable. Other problems such as ear infections, stomach pain, or injuries can cause howling. For example, if a corgi has an ear infection, the pain and discomfort in the ear may cause it to howl, especially when the affected ear is touched or moved.
Cognitive dysfunction
As corgis age, they may develop cognitive dysfunction, similar to dementia in humans. This can lead to confusion and behavioral changes, including increased howling. They may howl at night or at inopportune times for seemingly no clear reason. If you notice a sudden increase in howling in an older corgi, accompanied by other signs such as disorientation or forgetfulness, it is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out cognitive dysfunction or other age-related health issues.
Training and strengthening
Unintentional reinforcement
Sometimes, the owner may unknowingly intensify the howling behavior. For example, if a corgi howls and the owner responds by coming over to check on it or giving it attention, the dog will know that the howl will be answered. This can lead to an increase in howling as the dog tries to get the same attention again. It is important to avoid reinforcing unwanted behaviors and instead reward calm and quiet behaviors.
Stop howling training
Training corgis to stop howling is challenging, but possible. One way is to teach the “quiet” command. When the dog starts to howl, wait for a moment of silence, then praise and reward it. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the amount of silence before the reward. Another way is to distract the dog when it is likely to howl, such as giving it a toy or putting it on a short training session. Consistency is key to training, and corgis may need some time to learn new behaviors.
Characteristic of variety
Natural sound
Some corgis just talk better than others. This is a trait that varies from person to person. While not all corgis howl regularly, the whole breed tends to communicate by vocalizing. This may be due to their grazing background and, as mentioned earlier, the use of their voice is an important part of their work.
Express individuality
Corgis are known for their expressive personalities. They use their body language, barking and howling to communicate their emotions and needs. Howling can be a way for them to express excitement, happiness or even frustration. For example, if they are excited about taking a walk or playing, they may let out a howl as a form of expression.
Conclusion
In short, there are many reasons why your corgi howls. This may be due to its natural instincts, separation anxiety, environmental triggers, boredom, medical issues, training, or simply its breed characteristics. By carefully observing your dog’s behavior and howling surroundings, you can identify the underlying cause and take appropriate steps to address it. Whether it’s providing more exercise and mental stimulation, addressing separation anxiety, or ruling out any medical issues, understanding your corgi’s howling behavior is the first step to living a quieter, happier life with your furry friend.
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