Teaching your dog howl or sing on command is a nice easy trick to start with, we think it’s even easier than teaching your pooch to sit!
How To Make Your Dog Howl On Command
Some dogs are naturally more vocal than others, yet with our techniques you should be able to get just about any dog to howl on command.
Decide on your command word
This is important, because you need to use this word consistently to reinforce the idea that the word is associated with howling. The most obvious command word is “sing” although literally anything can be used.
Howl, Howl….. HOWL!!!
The next step is fun! Begin by howling yourself, dogs are pack oriented creatures and will tend to follow what others in the pack do. If you begin to howl consistently, your dog should do so too.
Like we said, this part is by far the most fun when trying to make your dog howl on command! Just be sure to do it when the neighbours are out!
Associate The Command Word With The Howl
This is the next part where absolute consistency is required. Every time you howl with your dog, say your command beforehand. Over time, your command word will become associated with the act of howling.
Keep reinforcing the command word each and every time you howl with your dog. Eventually, you’ll achieve that wonderful moment when you say “sing” and you dog will reply with a cheerful howl.
Kinda cute huh?…
Remember to have plenty of healthy dog treats handy!
Other Howling Tips
Dog howling is a unique behavior that varies from one pooch to another. While some dogs will howl perfectly, others may continue to bark. If your dog barks instead of howling, don’t be frustrated; instead, reward them and understand that “sing” now means bark to them. Interestingly, your facial expressions can also serve as a cue for your furry friend to howl. Since dogs are experts at reading human emotions, they may interpret the extension of your head and tilting up as a signal to howl.
To train your dog to howl on command, reinforce the word “sing” every time they howl. Although it may be challenging at first, your dog will respond faster with regular practice. However, you may need to use the “quiet” command to calm down an overexcited dog during howling lessons. This involves treating your dog during quiet periods and associating the word “quiet” with it.
If your dog becomes too hyper during the activity, it’s best to place them in a safe area like a dog crate or playpen. These are their safe spaces where they can unwind. Remember, dog howling is a natural behavior, and with consistent training and patience, you can teach your furry friend to howl on command.
