Ever heard a sad sound coming from your dog? Dogs whimper to tell you they want to go outside, want attention, are bored, or are in pain, while puppies learn to whimper to their moms. In fact, research shows that dog owners react to these sounds just like they would to a baby crying.
Dr. Sehaj Grewal from The Melrose Vet says dog whimpering is a quieter, softer version of whining. Both sounds are high-pitched and are used to show different feelings or needs, so people often use the words to mean the same thing.
Below, Dr. Grewal outlines why your dog might be whimpering and how you can help.
They’re Trying to Talk
Dogs can’t easily tell us what they need, but whimpering is one way they try to communicate. Whether they’re hungry, thirsty, want to play, or want some pets, whining can be how your dog “talks” to you.
It’s up to you to figure out what they need!
They Want Your Attention
Similar to trying to communicate with you, some dogs whimper and whine simply because they want your attention.
Try giving them some belly rubs or cuddle time.
They’re in Pain or Sick
Dogs may whimper if they’re hurt or not feeling well. Look for other signs, like:
- Limping
- Hunching over
- Not eating
They’re Scared or Stressed
Dogs who are afraid can whimper or yelp to express their fear.
The same goes for dogs who are anxious or stressed, like during a thunderstorm or when left alone.
They’re an Older Dog
As dogs age, they can develop “dog dementia,” aka canine cognitive dysfunction. This can lead to confusion, anxiety, and lethargy, which can all cause your dog to whimper or whine.
If your senior dog starts acting off or you hear them whimpering, take them to a vet.
They’re Bored
Just like kids complain when they’re bored, dogs do too! If your dog is whimpering/whining and wandering around, they might need more enrichment. This includes:
They’re Excited
Excited dogs often whimper when something good happens, such as going for a walk or having you return home after work.
They might also whimper when they’re about to be fed or see another dog outside.
How to Respond to a Whimpering or Whining Dog
If your dog is whimpering or whining, it’s their way of telling you something is wrong. Here’s how you can figure out what they need and how to help them feel better.
1. Figure out what’s wrong
First, try to figure out why your dog’s whining or whimpering. Look for clues, like if they’re limping, scratching at the door to go outside, or something scares them.
2. Address their immediate needs
Once you know why your dog’s whimpering, you can jump in and help. For example, if your dog needs to go potty or is hungry, take them outside or feed them dinner.
If you notice worse symptoms, they might be sick and need a vet visit.
3. Comfort your dog
If your dog is scared or anxious, give them extra love.
This could mean cuddling on the couch, playing soft music, making them a comfy bed, or giving them a quiet place to relax.
4. Get vet help
If you’re not sure why your dog is whining, take them to the vet.
The vet can help figure out what’s wrong and suggest things like anxiety medication, a dog trainer, or check for health problems.
When Should You Worry About Your Dog’s Whimpering?
Generally, Dr. Grewal says you should be concerned if your dog whimpers consistently. This is especially the case if the whimpering comes with limping, behavior changes, or a loss of appetite.
If your dog is whimpering for no clear reason or the whining is getting worse, she says it’s a good idea to take them to the vet to make sure nothing is wrong with their health.
iStock/Olga Gimaeva
How Can You Prevent Dog Whimpering or Whining?
Here are a few options for preventing whimpering in dogs.
- Training: If your dog whimpers due to anxiety, training and behavior modification techniques such as desensitization and counterconditioning can be helpful.
- Vet visit: Regular checkups help make sure your dog’s whining or whimpering isn’t because of a health problem.
- Stimulation: A daily routine, exercise, and fun activities can keep your dog from whimpering from boredom or wanting more attention.
- Extra care: Having a safe, cozy spot for your dog to retreat to can help them relax if they are afraid or stressed. The same goes for older dogs dealing with dementia, to keep things familiar and comfortable for them.
Dog Whimpering/Whining FAQs
Do puppies whimper more than adult dogs?
Yes, puppies whimper more because they’re getting used to a new home away from their mom.
As they get comfortable, they should stop.
What’s the difference between whimpering and whining?
Dr. Grewal says whimpering is a softer version of whining, but dogs make both high-pitched sounds to show how they feel.
They are often used interchangeably.
Are some breeds more likely to whimper than others?
Yes, some breeds, like Siberian Huskies and Beagles, are more talkative, but it also depends on your dog’s personality and how they’re raised.
Why is my dog whimpering in their sleep?
Dogs dream just like we do, so it’s normal for them to “talk” or whimper while sleeping. But if this is unusual for your dog, it could mean they’re anxious or in pain, and you may want to check with a vet.
