Free Training Your Puppy Not to Whine

Puppies whine to communicate a desired message to their pack leader. If they achieve their goal, puppies are conditioned to whine the next time they want something. Excessive whining behaviors should be addressed immediately to promote the maturation of an obedient, happy dog.

Dogs vocalize different types of sounds--such as growling, barking, howling and whining--to communicate to their pack. Whining can be identified by a high-pitched, attention-craving sound. Puppies often whine in hot or cold temperatures, if they are hungry or when they desire their mothers' care. When excessive whining behavior is left untreated, needy puppies mature into dogs that whine whenever they crave attention, are anxious, distressed, lonely or excited.

Dogs whine to achieve a desired goal. The significance of a dog's whining is dependent upon the circumstances. Examine the scenario surrounding the puppy's whining behavior. Does it desire your attention? Does it need to go outside? Is there a rabbit in the back yard? Has it been left alone for a long period of time? Is the house cold? Has it been waiting to eat? Evaluating the circumstances will unearth the true source of the whining problem. Also consider if the dog has received ample daily exercise; whining behavior may diminish if a puppy is healthy, happy and active.

Ensure that your puppy is not whining because of pain-induced reasons. Examine your dog: Does it whine when you touch its paw or a specific part of its body? Take your canine to the veterinarian for frequent check-ups and regular vaccinations. Has your puppy recently undergone surgery or a traumatic event? Whining can be a natural part of the healing process and an automatic communicative reaction. Additionally, recognize if the puppy whines as a fearful response to a situation. This behavior is a red flag for potentially more serious conditions and should be addressed by a dog training professional. Ensure your puppy has constant access to fresh water, is fed on a regular schedule and goes to the bathroom outside every few hours and that the house is a comfortable temperature.

Recurrent canine whining can be resolved utilizing different methods. Train your puppy the "quiet" command as soon as you are able. When it whines, respond verbally with a firm and calm "quiet." If the needy, attention-seeking behavior continues, ignore the dog and remove it from the "pack" gathering room (such as the living area). After a short period of silence, allow the dog to return to the group. Should the puppy respond appropriately---in a calm manner--give it a positive reward such as a verbal cue, treat, toy or affection. Consequently, the puppy will soon learn that quiet behaviors will allow it to remain with its pack. When the dog is quiet, give it the attention it craves and soon a healthy, happy bond will formulate between pet and owner. Should whining behavior occur during the nighttime, consider crate training or allowing the puppy to sleep with an item of your clothing. Oftentimes, a puppy will feel safe with your scent nearby and whining problems will discontinue.

Should troublesome puppy whining continue, consider contacting a local dog training professional. As constant whining may signal a more complex problem (like separation anxiety disorder), a credible trainer will recognize and redirect these behaviors. Additionally, a pack leader should evaluate his behavior to ensure he is not part of the whining problem. Never yell or physically harm a whining puppy. Practice calm leadership exercises so that the puppy will learn to trust your commands. An obedient, mature dog will evolve over time.