| Growling is
a means for dogs to communicate. Dogs growl to express feelings
and communicate with others. There are many reasons dogs growl
and it is an important part of their language. Dogs may growl
to let others know that their personal space has been invaded,
that they are protecting something, or are fearful. Growling can
serve as a warning that the dog is irritated and that there may
be a danger of biting. Sometimes dogs growl to indicate that they
are cranky, tired, or just do not want to be bothered.
Dog owners are not always able to identify
the specific reason their dog may be growling, but there is
always a reason even if it is not apparent. When you reprimand
your dog for growling, you are training the dog not to give
important warnings. A dog that fails to give indications of
displeasure may simply bite with no warning at all. Dogs are
individuals, just like humans, and if your dog does not growl
as a warning sign, the frustration may build up until the dog
reaches its breaking point. This could result in someone being
bitten with no warning at all. A properly trained dog will give
numerous warnings before resorting to biting.
When a dog growls, it provides an opportunity
to consider why the dog is irritated and to take the appropriate
actions to bring the irritation to an end. You can choose to
separate the dog from others or make the dog more comfortable
by changing its environment. It is a good idea to refrain from
reprimanding your dog when it growls. Allowing your dog to express
its feelings is the best way to avoid bites and bad behavior. |
