There is no exact translation in canine language for the kind of crying we humans do. Dogs don’t secrete hot, salty tears when they’re sad, nor do they wail or sob like people. Which is why interpreting a dog’s cry can be tough. When we’re talking about a whimper or whine, the canine “cry” can mean one of a million things.
Why Do Dogs Cry?
Dogs are compassionate and sensitive animals. When we’re happy, there they are to wag their tails and share the joy. When we’re feeling blue, there they are to offer a warm cuddle and share the sadness. They are our friends, through and through.
As with barking, dogs who whimper or whine are trying to communicate. Excitement, anxiety, frustration, pain, attention seeking, and resource solicitation are all common reasons dogs whine at their people.
Most commonly, these sounds are aimed at conveying the desire for food, water, a potty break, a toy, attention, etc. This is similar to how puppies interact with their mothers, by “asking” for something with a plaintive whimper or whine. So it’s no wonder adult dogs recruit this same vocal impulse when communicating with their people.
Here are a few other reasons your dog might be whining:
Being uncomfortable – If your dog is uncomfortable because of joint issues or an injury, you should contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment.
Being sick – If you notice other symptoms that show your dog is whining because he or she is sick, it’s time to visit your veterinarian. He or she will be able to figure out exactly what’s going on with your pet.
Feeling Anxious – If something has changed in your dog’s environment — a new home, a change in your work schedule, a new child, a new pet sibling, or any number of factors — stress-related anxiety may manifest itself in the form of whining or whimpering. In many cases, your dog may just need some time to adjust, but if this behavior continues, you may want to schedule a visit with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Needing something – Your dog may start whining if they’re looking for you to give them something. It may be attention and a belly rub, or it may be a full bowl of food and water.
Just because they are bored – If you think it could be boredom, make sure the dog is getting an adequate amount of exercise at least twice a day, which means more than just being let out in the yard. A tired dog is a content dog and a content dog doesn’t whine unless something is wrong.
Separation anxiety is another serious condition that can lead to chronic crying. These dogs will sometimes spend their entire days barking and/or whining.
What’s the Solution?
Luckily, there is help. First, consult with your veterinarian to help rule out medical problems (like pain or cognitive decline). If the problem is likely behavioral, a highly recommended and experienced dog trainer is an ideal choice for those who seek to end excessive crying behavior.
Ultimately, whether your puppy cries is up to you. By bringing a puppy into your home, you have taken on the responsibility of creating an environment that maximizes her opportunities to succeed. This is crucial not only to meet her immediate physical and emotional needs such as eating, peeing, and close contact, but also to provide for her emerging emotional, and innate needs as she grows and gains confidence, and begins to explore the world around her.
And, as always, I hope these tips help you to enjoy living life with your best friend!
