Q&A for How to Stop Howling Dogs

Dogs howl at night for different reasons. This includes feeling lonely, being disorientated in the dark, needing the toilet, reacting to noises they hear around them, and responding to a force of habit. Think about when the habit first started, and see if anything springs to mind as to what started this behavior.

Barking is a self-rewarding behavior so it is a tough one to stop. The best results come when you put barking on cue (teach the "Speak" command), as this enables you to put "Quiet" on cue. Another good plan is to give the dog an alternative action to do instead of bark, such as teaching him to fetch a toy and then lie on his mat. The distraction interrupts the barking, and you can then reward the good behavior of being on his bed.

Dogs with separation anxiety don't settle in their owner's absence. Have a chat with the neighbors and ask if they hear barking when you're out. Other clues include destructive behavior such as chewing or digging, or toileting in the house. Observing the dogs remotely, using a video camera, is very useful. If the dog paces constantly, howls, or can't settle, then separation anxiety is a distinct possibility.

This can be a sign of separation anxiety, which can require professional help from a dog behaviorist. In the meantime, try not to let the dog know you are going out. Change your routine so that the dog doesn't get lots of cues that you are leaving. Try things like carrying the car keys in the house so the dog stops linking the sound of keys to your departure. Likewise, wear a coat or shoes indoors. Exercise the dog prior to going out, then give a long-lasting chew toy, such as a Kong, to keep him busy while you leave.

Prior to putting her down for a sleep, exercise her, then give her some food, and then let her out to the toilet. That way you know all her needs have been met, and if she howls, it's for attention rather than because she needs something. Be careful only to re-enter the room when she is quiet or you will accidentally teach her to howl (rewarding the howling with your attention).

The dog howls as he reads the clues that you are about to leave. Try and make your departure less obvious, such as leaving by a different door. Also, shake up your routine so that actions such as putting your coat on, don't signal you are going. Do things like wearing your coat around the house and walking around carrying car keys (but without going out) so there are fewer 'tells' that you are about to depart.

That can be really difficult—certain breeds are just more likely to howl. However, you can try to feed the dog or put something in its mouth while it's howling. That way, it won't be able to really howl because its mouth is full.

It's lonely. Play soft music, and give it a toy to chew on while you're gone.

His howling will not attract wolves. In fact, your dog will keep wild animals away from your tent.

Your dog is probably mourning, like you did. They like companionship, so it will go away over time. You could also consider getting another dog.

Follow the instructions listed in the article above.

Be with her and comfort her. Try wrapping her with a blanket so she feels secure. Give her toys and treats to take her mind off it. Many people have success with thundershirts as well.

Dogs are pack animals. Let it sleep upstairs and be part of your pack. Kennel train it if you must, as it just wants to be close to you. If that is not an option for you, consider getting another companion dog for her. Then she will have company sleeping downstairs.

Give them good puzzle toys and make sure they are well exercised. Keep them inside at night and keep them with you.