Why Do Huskies Howl? 9 Questions Indian Husky Parents Ask

You can listen to it and if you’re living with a Siberian husky in Bengaluru, Pune or Delhi, then you have heard it. A high and loud “awooo” which gets the neighbours’ attention as they peer out their balconies. So, why do huskies howl so much more than other dogs? Here are the questions most often asked by Indian husky parents and answered in layman’s terms.

1. Why do huskies howl more than other breeds?

The huskies are an ancient breed, “primitive” in nature, and they remain faithful to their wolf-like heritage. Howling is a vocalization used by wolves to communicate over great distances in the wild. Huskies were bred in Siberia to pull sleds in teams, and that group life kept this way of talking alive. The majority of huskies also bark very little. Howling, whining and “talking” are the primary methods of their communication.

2. Is my husky howling because it is sad?

Not always. A happy, excited, bored or lonely husky may howl. The trick is to look at when it happens. A howl when you pick up the leash is joy. If a howl begins when you leave home and continues for a long period, it may be a sign of loneliness or separation stress.

3. Why does my husky howl at sirens and pressure cookers?

The sound of an ambulance siren or temple bell, the pressure cooker whistle, or a song on TV can sound like another dog howling. Your husky “answers” to the call. We explain this habit in more detail in our post on why dogs howl at sirens.

4. Why does my husky howl at night?

Howling at night frequently is due to one of three causes:

• Too little exercise. Huskies should be active for 1-2 hours each day. A dog that is tired is sleepy, a dog that is bored is singing.
• Outside sounds. Street dogs bark, bikes and festival crackers carry far at night.
• Wanting company. Huskies are pack dogs. Howls may be triggered by sleeping alone on a balcony or different room.

5. Does howling get worse in the Indian heat?

Heat doesn’t cause howling on its own, but it alters the routine. In hot cities, owners avoid walking the dog during the hottest parts of the day, and the dog is left with stored energy. Walk at early morning and late evening; keep the dog in a cool room; provide puzzle toys inside. If you are undecided about the breed, check our genuine thought on whether or not to opt for a Siberian Husky in India.

6. Can howling mean my husky is in pain?

Yes, sometimes. Look out for howling/crying and the following:

• Lameness or reluctance to go up or down stairs
• Repeatedly licking a spot
• Not eating, vomiting or hiding
• Crying when touched in a certain place

If you observe any of these, take your husky to a veterinarian. Older huskies also may have a recent onset of howling which is associated with their age and hearing impairment or confusion.

7. Should I stop my husky from howling?

You don’t have to stop it completely. Howling is a part of a husky. The goal is to manage it, not allow it to become a problem that will disrupt your building or indicate a bigger issue. Teach a “quiet” cue: wait for a brief lull in howling, calmly say “quiet”, then reward with praise or a small treat. Never shout. To a husky, shouting sounds like you are joining in.

8. How do I reduce howling when I leave home?

Start small. Go away for 2 minutes and then return quietly and gradually increase the time. Offer a chew toy or stuffed Kong only when you go out. Leave a worn T-shirt that carries your smell. It helps a lot when a dog walker comes or a daycare visit on the long office days. Many huskies also feel more at ease leaning on and being close to their people, read about why dogs lean on you.

9. Will my neighbours complain, and what can I do?

They may in the Indian apartment. Communicate with neighbours early, let them know what you are training; ask them to let you know if you hear howling when you are out. A simple pet camera shows you what sets your dog off.

Quick Summary

• If your husky howls when sirens or music are played, then it’s a “call”, and there is nothing to be done as it passes.
• If it howls when you leave, chances are it is lonely, and slow alone-time training will help.
• If it howls at night, it is probably boredom or noise, so more exercise and indoor sleeping can alleviate this problem.
• If it howls while limping or hiding, it is probably in pain, so go to the vet.

Huskies howl because talking is in their blood. After you determine the meaning of each howl, you’ll be able to enjoy the song and correct the issues behind the howls that don’t sound happy.