A whining dog can be so maddening, because occasionally it’s just about impossible to work out what they are whining for or what you can do about it.

While other forms of dog communication like barking or snarling appear to be straightforward and simple to comprehend, dog whining seems to be more complex and have more meanings.

Below are 3 typical reasons that make dogs whine and what you need to do about it.

Whining to get your Attention

In the house, many dogs will whine to get your attention or when they want something. Sadly , it appears the more they succeed, the more often they’ll use it, so you have to be careful how you respond. If they can get your interest whenever they start whining, they could also think that puts their position in the pack above yours and the result may be all sorts of other behavior problem. It’s best to ignore this sort of whining, rather than reacting to it (even screaming can be construed as paying them some attention) if you need them to stop whining.

Whining from Pain

Dogs will also whine when they’re in some type of discomfort. Pain can make them whine as can being cold or wet. You just need to use your judgement to work out if it’s worth taking any notice of. If you suspect they could be in real agony, then you must take them to see your vet, but if they’ve been fed, watered and let out to wee, it may just be a grumble or complaint, and again it’s best to give no attention to it.

Whining Because of Separation Anxiety

Dog separation anxiety might be the driver behind your dogs whining habits. Some dogs will start whining the second their owners is out of view, whether or not they’re only in the nearest room, and others will whine non-stop when they are left at home alone. If you are troubled that your dog might be doing this, ask your neighbors – they’ll soon tell you if they are whining! You’ll need to approach this issue with time, patience, persistence and a decent training programme to make them stop this kind of whining.

Author Venice Marriott is a writer and dog owner and runs a website, which provides help and info for dog owners dealing with the behaviour problems created by dog anxiety. Get more information about the reasons your dog whines when you head to the site.