Can a Growl be Good?

A growl is usually the mark of a dogs dissatisfaction with a situation.  To protect themselves, to guard resources, to warn, to seek attention or merely when sensing something out of the norm.  It can also be used by two dogs in play however is commonly met with disapproval of humans.  Perhaps we should consider yourself lucky if we’ve had ‘just a growl’.   The dog has given a warning so once he has sounded that alarm bell you need to take immediate notice of the situation.  Better to give a warning than simply lunge into an attack.

In saying that, a growl does not always mean that a dog is about to attack.  Figuring out what he’s trying to tell you is a must.  I’ve even heard of a dog that used to growl whenever he wanted to be let out for ‘toilet’.  A habit such as this would be a perfect opportunity to train a different way to let you know.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)