Dogs are furry animals that evolved from wolves through a process known as domestication. This process began around 15,000 years ago when humans started forming settlements and relied on hunting for survival.
Due to its connection to wolves, the species not only looks like a wolf but also shows a similar temperament. Howling is a crucial method of communication for wolves, which many dog breeds have inherited.
1. Alaskan Malamute
Height: 23-25 inches (Male), 22-24 inches (Female)
Weight: 75-85 pounds (Male), 65-75 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
The Alaskan Malamute has a genetic predisposition and a strong pack instinct that makes it too eager to howl. Howling is a form of communication for these dogs, as it allows them to connect with other dogs or humans.
Their ancestors, the sled dogs, relied on howling to communicate over long distances in the Arctic. This behavior has been passed down through generations, making howling an innate and instinctive behavior for Alaskan Malamutes.
2. Siberian Husky
Height: 21-24 inches (Male), 20-22 inches (Female)
Weight: 45-60 pounds (Male), 35-50 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
The Siberian Husky has a strong instinct to communicate through vocalization. They howl more frequently than other breeds due to their close resemblance to their wild ancestors, the wolves.
As a wolf dog breed, howling serves various purposes for them. It can be a form of expressing their emotions, such as excitement, loneliness, or boredom. Huskies may also howl to alert their owners of potential danger or to communicate with other dogs.
3. Beagle
Height: 13-15 inches (33-38 cm)
Weight: 20-30 pounds (9-13 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Beagle is another breed with a strong howling tendency. The breed originated in England and was primarily developed for hunting purposes. They are believed to have descended from ancient Roman scent hounds.
Beagles gained significant recognition in the 19th century when they were imported to the United States. Their popularity soared due to their exceptional hunting skills and friendly nature. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Beagle breed in 1885.
4. Bloodhound
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
Weight: 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
The Bloodhound is a scent hound breed renowned for its exceptional tracking abilities. They have one of the most powerful noses in the canine world. Due to their sense of smell and ability to track over long distances, these dogs are often used in search and rescue operations.
Moreover, the Bloodhound's other distinctive features include their droopy ears and wrinkled skin. They are also known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them great family pets.
5. Basset Hound
Height: 14 inches (Male), 12-14 inches (Female)
Weight: 55-75 pounds (24-34 kg)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
The Basset Hound has a deep and melodious voice that they use to communicate and express themselves. Howling is a natural behavior for this breed, which has a strong sense of smell and was originally bred for hunting.
Basset Hounds may howl when they are bored, lonely, or seeking attention. They may also howl in response to certain sounds or as a way to communicate with other dogs.
6. Afghan Hound
Height: 27-29 inches (Male), 25-27 inches (Female)
Weight: 60-75 pounds (Male), 50-60 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
The Afghan Hound is often considered the most glamorous dog breed in the dog world. Its striking appearance, elegant demeanor, and regal presence make it stand out among all other breeds.
With its long, flowing coat, graceful movements, and proud posture, the Afghan Hound exudes an unmatched level of sophistication. Moreover, the breed's other distinct physical traits include its silky hair and flowing locks, which comes in various colors and patterns.
7. Coonhound
Height: 23-27 inches (Black and Tan Coonhound)
Weight: 65-110 pounds (Black and Tan Coonhound)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years (Black and Tan Coonhound)
The Coonhound has a fitting name as they were originally bred in the US for tracking and treeing raccoons. They have a strong sense of smell and are highly skilled at trailing scents.
There are several types of coonhounds with distinct characteristics, including the Black and Tan Coonhound, the Redbone Coonhound, the Bluetick Coonhound, and the Treeing Walker Coonhound. These dogs make excellent hunting companions and are also loved as family pets for their friendly and sociable nature.
8. Alaskan Klee Kai
Height: 15-17 inches (Standard), 13-15 inches (Miniature)
Weight: 20-30 pounds (Standard), up to 15 pounds (Miniature)
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
The Alaskan Klee Kai is known to howl frequently due to its strong genetic connection to its ancestor, the Alaskan Husky. This breed has a natural instinct to communicate through howling, which is deeply ingrained in their DNA.
Similar to their Husky relatives, Klee Kais are highly sociable and crave companionship. Additionally, they may howl out of boredom or frustration if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are not met.
9. Norwegian Elkhound
Height: 19.5-20.5 inches (Male), 18.5-19.5 inches (Female)
Weight: 48.5-55 pounds (Male), 40-48.5 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Norwegian Elkhound is an ancient breed that originated in Norway. They were initially bred by the Vikings as versatile hunting dogs, particularly for tracking and hunting large game such as elk and bear.
With a history dating back over a thousand years, these dogs played a crucial role in the daily lives of Norwegian hunters and farmers. They were highly valued for their endurance, agility, and keen sense of smell.
10. Shiba Inu
Height: 13.5-16.5 inches (Male), 12.5-15.5 inches (Female)
Weight: 17-23 pounds (Male), 15-20 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Shiba Inu, a Japanese dog breed, is known to have a strong prey drive, so they may howl when threatened. Additionally, they may howl as a response to other dogs or sirens as it triggers their instinctual behavior.
Shiba Inus are generally friendly dogs. They are known to be loyal, affectionate, and playful with their families. However, they can be reserved and aloof towards strangers.
11. American Eskimo Dog
Height: 15-19 inches (Standard), 9-12 inches (Miniature), below 9 inches (Toy)
Weight: 25-35 pounds (Standard), 10-20 pounds (Miniature), 6-10 pounds (Toy)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The American Eskimo Dog is believed to have descended from various European spitz-type dogs, including the German Spitz, Keeshond, and Pomeranian. These dogs were brought to the United States by German immigrants in the early 20th century.
Although the Eskimo may resemble a miniature white wolf, they are not closely related to the wild animal. The former has a thick double coat and curled tail, similar to a wolf. However, it is important to remember that these are purely aesthetic similarities.
12. Basenji
Height: 16-17 inches (Male), 15-16 inches (Female)
Weight: 22-26 pounds (Male), 20-25 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
The Basenji originated in Central Africa, specifically in the regions of Congo, Sudan, and Zimbabwe. This breed is believed to be one of the oldest domesticated dogs with evidence of its existence dating back thousands of years.
These dogs were highly regarded by the ancient Egyptians, who even depicted them in their tomb paintings. They were primarily used for hunting, as they possess excellent tracking abilities and a keen sense of smell.
13. Finnish Spitz
Height: 15.5-20 inches (40-51 cm)
Weight: 31-36 pounds (Male), 23-29 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Although the Finnish Spitz is on this list, it doesn't technically howl. Instead, they produce a unique vocalization called a baro, which sounds more like a yodel or a chortle. This is often referred to as the "Basenji yodel."
Additionally, this breed can still produce other sounds such as growls, barks, and whines, but they are generally quiet compared to other breeds. The reasons behind their infrequent howling behavior can be attributed to their ancient hunting instincts and breeding history.
14. Great Pyrenees
Height: 27-32 inches (Male), 25-29 inches (Female)
Weight: 100-160 pounds (Male), 85-115 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
The Great Pyrenees have a majestic appearance, thanks to their beautiful white coat and large stature. Despite its intimidating look, the breed is a gentle giant with an affectionate nature.
The French breed is renowned for its exceptional protective instincts. Originating as livestock guardians, they have a strong sense of responsibility towards their loved ones. They are vigilant and alert, always ready to defend their family and property.
15. Greyhound
Height: 28-30 inches (Male), 27-28 inches (Female)
Weight: 65-70 pounds (Male), 60-65 pounds (Female)
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
The Greyhound is capable of howling; however, they don't howl as frequently as some other breeds. These dogs may howl in response to certain triggers, such as hearing sirens or other dogs howling nearby.
The hound dog breed howls can be described as hauntingly beautiful and can carry over long distances due to their deep chest and strong vocal cords. Additionally, they also produce soft whines to express discomfort and anxiety or to seek attention.
Petjurni Team
