- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Like humans, dogs have plenty to say—and they often communicate using different sounds. No matter the breed or personality, you’ll find that your dog uses a variety of vocalizations depending on their needs at that moment.
While research in the past has identified 12 basic vocalizations in the canid species, researchers say it’s not a complete list of current dog sounds. So to help you decipher your dog’s barks and grumbles, we’ve collected a list of common dog sounds and what they mean.
We also take a look at unusual sounds and when they might raise some concern, with the expert help of Dr. Kathleen Mottel, assistant managing veterinarian at Glen Ellyn Animal Hospital.
The Most Common Dog Sounds
When you’re trying to figure out what your dog is saying, context is key. As Mottel explains, “It depends on the cause of the sound or the situation.” For instance, a dog might growl when they’re guarding a toy to tell someone to back off—but they might also growl happily in play.
That can make dog vocalizations hard to interpret. But there are still some general meanings that can give you a place to start. These are some common dog sounds, plus what they typically communicate.
Barking
One of the most common sounds dogs make is barking—a sharp “ruff,” “arf,” or “woof” sound. Barks can convey a huge range of meanings and emotional states as they range from high to low pitch. In fact, a study in 2000 looked at nine different breeds and found that each had between two to twelve different types of barks.
Why your dog barks will depend on the situation and your individual dog. For example, when the doorbell rings, your dog might bark to alert you that someone has arrived at the house. But if you have an anxious, sound-sensitive, reactive, or undersocialized dog, they may be barking to communicate fear.
Other reasons dogs bark include excitement, frustration, boredom, feeling playful, or seeking attention. If your dog barks non-stop, working with a behavioral specialist or dog trainer can help identify the root of this behavior and teach your dog healthier alternatives.
Growling
According to Dr. Mottel, growling is one of the most misunderstood dog vocalizations. A low “grrr” can indicate displeasure or irritation—but dogs also growl happily in play, and some even growl to indicate contentment, like a cat purrs. Still others growl to get your attention, like Bean, the dog who became famous for grumbling about her dinner time.
To know the difference between a happy growl and a displeased one, watch your dog’s body language. If a dog growls with raised hackles or a lifted lip, it’s best to give them space.
Howling
Howls are a reminder that dogs likely descended from the same ancestor as wolves. They use these high-pitched and mournful “awoos” to get attention, respond to another dog’s howl, or express that they’re stressed, sick, anxious, or in pain. Many dogs also howl in response to high-pitched and persistent noises, like sirens.
Not all dogs are howlers, though. Some learn by example at an early age, while others are more prone to “awoo” because they’re an ancient breed, like a Siberian Husky or Basenji.
Bigandt_Photography via iStock
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Whining
Whining can mean a variety of things, including a demand for attention, a cry of distress, or a burst of excitement. New puppies often whine as they adjust to a new home and being away from their mother.
Your dog’s body language can help you assess what they’re feeling. For instance, if your dog whines while making lots of eye contact, they’re likely requesting something—like to go outside, get more scritches, or taste test the snack that’s just out of reach. However, if your dog whines with a tucked tail or a hunched posture, they may be upset or in pain. And if your dog whines after you get home, together with tail wagging and prancing, it’s likely due to excitement.
Whimpering
Similar to a whine but closer to a “yelp,” a dog’s whimper often communicates pain. If your dog whimpers in response to being touched, they may be experiencing physical discomfort, which warrants a trip to the vet!
While anxiety or distress can be expressed through whimpering, this sorrowful sound can also communicate something as harmless as vying for attention. Some dogs may be whimpering to simply say “feed me!” or “pet me!”
Grunting
Your dog might emit a low exhale or a series of short grunts when you scratch them in just the right spot. This contented expression is their way of saying, “I’m relaxed!” Brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, are also more inclined to grunt with their flat faces and short snoots.
Grunts, however, can also be a sign of physical discomfort. For instance, if you have a senior dog with achy joints, you might notice they grunt when getting up or plopping down. If a grunt seems to accompany pain rather than contentment, it’s best to schedule a visit to the vet.
Sighing
Dog sighs are some of the best sounds. This long “huff” often signals that a dog is relaxed, sleepy, and settling in for a long snooze. Occasionally, a shorter exhalation might mean that they’re impatient or annoyed, like when you took three seconds to deliver a treat instead of two.
Dogs may also sigh to seek attention or show they’re bored, signaling that a bit of mental or physical stimulation is in order—whether it be a walk outside or a play session with their favorite toys.
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Panting
Dogs often pant when they’re hot or after a rigorous bout of exercise, like running and playing fetch. These short, shallow breaths (often accompanied by a tongue hanging out) are a dog’s way of regulating their body temperature.
However, your dog might also pant when they’re excited, like when seeing a friend or waiting for a delicious snack. On the flip side, dogs also pant when they’re nervous or stressed, like during car rides or at the vet.
Yipping or yapping
Higher pitched than a bark, a dog’s “yip” or “yap” can signify playfulness, happiness, or excitement. For example, your dog may not be able to contain their joy when you walk through the front door after being at work all day. While most common among smaller breeds, any dog can make these short, intermittent noises.
If your dog starts making noises that sound more like a “yelp,” however, it may mean they’re surprised, afraid, or in pain.
Funny or Unusual Dog Sounds
Along with the common sounds that dogs make, specific breeds and quirky pups also make other noises that can range from alarming to hilarious. From screeching to snorting, here are some funny dog sounds and what they might mean.
Snorting
Snorting sounds like a sneezy “huff.” It might be your dog’s way of demanding dinner, seeking attention, or expressing excitement. If your dog is snorting rapidly, they might actually be reverse sneezing and trying to get an irritant out of their throat. Repeated snorting, however, can also signify a greater health issue, such as a respiratory problem or an airway blockage (which often occurs in smaller, flat-faced breeds).
Chirping
Dogs don’t chirp like a cat, but they can emit a soft, high-pitched vocalization that sounds similar. Though unusual, some dogs make this noise after a big yawn or when they’re overly excited and feeling playful. Others may chirp at their human to get their attention. (“Throw the ball already!”)
Moaning
A moan varies from a grunt, whine, or whimper in that it’s a longer, drawn-out sound. It’s important to observe body language if your dog is moaning. Are they happily settling in for a nap? Do they seem confused about something? Are they expressing physical discomfort? If you think your dog is moaning out of pain, it’s best to talk to your vet.
Baying
This mournful sound is more extended than a bark and deeper than a howl. Baying often happens when a dog is hunting and wants to communicate that they’ve found their prey. If you have a hound, like a Beagle or Bloodhound, then you’re likely no stranger to this soulful sound.
Purring
You might think purring is just for cats, but some dogs make a similar, throaty noise. This unusual rumbling sound can indicate contentment, relaxation, or excitement—like when you get the belly rub just right.
Screaming
Certain breeds like Shiba Inus and Huskies are known for their high-pitched screeching noises, known as “screaming.” This emotional response is often their way of expressing excitement or asking for attention. If you don’t have a dog that typically screeches at you, then a scream can be their way of showing they’re in pain, afraid, or anxious. Noting the context is always key.
Michelle Tresemer via iStock
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Weird Sounds To Ask a Vet About
In the right context, some common sounds—like whimpering and groaning—can indicate that your dog is in pain, especially when paired with pained body language.
There’s also a set of sounds that are almost always concerning and warrant a quick examination of your pup to make sure all is well. Here’s what to listen for.
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Gagging
The most likely reason a dog might gag is if something is caught in their throat (like a sock or other choking hazard). Dogs may also gag if they have respiratory issues or kennel cough. Additionally, dogs gag when they’re experiencing tracheal collapse (more common in smaller breeds). If your dog starts to make a gagging noise, similar to retching, it’s time for an emergency vet visit.
Hacking
While gagging happens when your dog is choking on something, hacking sounds closer to coughing and may signal a more persistent issue. Hacking is a common symptom of kennel cough or a respiratory issue and a sign that a vet appointment is a good idea.
Honking
You may hear a dog honk—similar to the honking noise of a goose—if there’s something awry with their airway and nasal passage. This can be a sign of tracheal collapse or a respiratory issue, or it can occur in tandem with reverse sneezing. Honking is abnormal and usually signifies that something isn’t quite right.
Reverse sneezing
Like humans, dogs sneeze from time to time. However, if your dog is excessively sneezing or reverse sneezing, they might have an upper respiratory issue or infection, nasal mites, or an allergic reaction to something in the environment.
No noise
- There are a few dog breeds that almost never bark—but for most, silence can indicate a problem. Dr. Mottel explains, “Many people assume that animals should yelp in pain, but some pets might not make any noise if something is wrong.” If your dog’s body language is off, even if they’re not making any sounds, it’s always worth checking in with your vet.
Do Dogs Understand When You Make Dog Sounds?
Dogs have a repertoire of sounds that we can learn and understand, but does it work the other way around? Will your dog understand if you bark back? The short answer is no. Your pet won’t pick up on any secret messages if you mimic their usual noises.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t still communicate with each other. Dogs understand our tone, what our body language means, and, of course, any cues we teach them. And there are sounds we can make that they like.
Plus, while we communicate differently than our furry counterparts, taking the time to better understand your dog can only strengthen that special bond between human and animal.
