Vocalisations
Dog vocalisations carry arousal and, broadly, whether a dog wants more distance or more contact. Low harsh sounds tend to accompany distance-increasing contexts and higher tonal sounds the reverse. They contain no words or grammar, so no sound can be translated into a sentence.
Sound carries real information about how aroused a dog is and, broadly, whether they are asking for distance or for contact. It does not carry words. These entries cover what the acoustics actually support.
Barking
Barking is context-dependent, not a vocabulary. What the acoustics do and don't tell you, how to read the trigger, and when barking should prompt a vet check.
noneVocalisationsAlarm barking
Alarm barking: the fast, harsh burst set off by a doorbell, siren or stranger. What it signals, what it does not, and when to stop and give the dog space.
cautionVocalisationsGrowling
Growling is usually a request for distance, not proof of aggression. How to read the body around the sound, and why punishing a growl removes your warning.
stopVocalisationsLow warning growl
A low growl is a warning that helps prevent bites. What it usually means, what to do in the moment, and why punishing it removes the warning you rely on.
stopVocalisationsPlay growl
Growling in play is usually part of the game, not a threat. How a play growl differs from a serious one, what to watch in the body, and when to pause the game.
cautionVocalisationsHowling
Howling is long-range contact, not automatic distress. Why sirens and music set it off, what solo howling in an empty house means, and when to get help.
noneVocalisationsWhining
Whining in dogs is often about access, contact or discomfort. How to tell need from anxiety from pain, and why ignoring it is not always the right answer.
caution