If you're a German Shepherd dog owner or have even interacted with one for a long time, then you know that they can be quite vocal. They bark and howl to communicate with humans and other dogs, but perhaps the most common sound we hear from them is whining.
But why do German Shepherds whine so much?
To answer this question, it's important to look at why dogs generally make noises like barking and whining.
German Shepherds are social animals who use these sounds to communicate their emotions - such as fear or excitement - as well as their needs - such as hunger or attention. In the case of German Shepherds specifically, they may also whine when they feel anxious or insecure due to changes in their environment or routine.
Additionally, puppies may whine more than adults because they haven't yet learned how to express themselves through body language alone. Regardless of the reason behind it, understanding what your dog is trying to tell you can help build a strong bond between the two of you!
Why are German Shepherds so vocal?
German Shepherds are incredibly vocal animals and use various sounds to communicate with other animals and humans. The most common sounds we hear from dogs are barking, howling, and whining. But why are dogs so vocal?
The main reason that German Shepherds are very social creatures is that they use their noises to express their emotions, such as fear or excitement, and their needs, like hunger or attention. German Shepherds, in particular, may also whine when they feel anxious or insecure due to changes in their environment or routine.
Understanding what your dog is trying to tell you, no matter the reason behind your German Shepherd's vocalizations, can help create a strong bond between you and your pet.
10 reasons why German Shepherds whine
As we mentioned, German Shepherds are very social animals, and usually, they'll whine to let other people or animals know their emotions and needs. But why do these dogs make such a specific sound?
Here are the 10 most common reasons why German Shepherds whine:
1. To express fear or anxiety
2. To alert a human of danger
3. To obtain the attention
4. To show excitement
5. When they are seeking comfort
6. As a way to communicate with other dogs
7. When they experience separation anxiety
8. Because of boredom or loneliness
9. Because of pain, discomfort, or illness
10. When puppies have not yet learned how to express themselves without vocalizing
To express fear or anxiety
German Shepherds can whine because of fear or anxiety. German Shepherds, in particular, use whining to express their emotions when they feel scared or worried about something. When a dog feels anxious or insecure due to changes in their environment or routine, whining may be used to warn others and divert attention away from the perceived threat.
In these cases, it's important to look for other signs of anxiety, such as pacing, trembling, or painting, which may indicate a more serious issue and require professional help.
Some of the most common signs of fear and anxiety in German Shepherds are:
1. Excessive barking or whining
2. Panting
3. Pacing
4. Trembling
5. Hiding/avoidance of people, places, and things
6. Tail tucked between legs
7. Increased aggression and hostility
To alert a human of danger
German Shepherds, in particular, may whine when they feel scared or anxious due to changes in their environment or routine. The sound of whining can act as a warning signal for an approaching threat and indicate to the human that danger may be present. This warning can then help humans take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones if necessary.
German Shepherds also have an instinctive protective nature, leading them to bark when they sense a stranger or intruder in their vicinity.
The loudness of their bark can alert people nearby of a potential danger and help them take appropriate precautions.
If your German Shepherd notices that you're in potential danger, he will try to warm you by:
- Whining
- Barking
- Growling
- Pacing or running back and forth
- Staring intently at the perceived threat
- Ears perking up and pointing forward
- Lips pulled back to expose teeth
- Tail raised and stiffened
- Hackles rising on the neck
If you notice any of these signs and your German Shepherd is whining, he's probably trying to protect you (or himself) from something or someone.
To obtain the attention
German Shepherds can whine to obtain the attention they desire from their owners or other people. Dogs often use this strategy when they want something, such as a treat, a toy, a walk, or even some extra love and cuddles.
German Shepherds crave attention from their owners because it is a way for them to form strong bonds. It helps them feel secure, loved, and accepted.
Dogs naturally rely on humans for friendship, protection, and basic needs such as food and shelter.
Attention allows German Shepherds to feel appreciated and can provide an important connection with the people they love. Additionally, providing your dog with activities that require mental stimulation or physical exercise can help satisfy its need for attention positively.
Here are the 10 most common signs that your German Shepherd is seeking attention:
1. Whining
2. Barking
3. Pawing at you or pushing against you
4. Sleeping on your feet or following you around the house
5. Sitting and staring at you with an intense look in their eyes
6. Jumping up onto your lap when given the chance
7. Bringing a toy to show off, wanting to be played with
8. Tilting their head when looking at you for longer periods of time than usual
9. Licking and nibbling on your hands or feet
10. Stretching out close by while lying down
To show excitement
German Shepherds may whine when they are excited for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that they are trying to communicate their joy and enthusiasm to their favorite humans. This type of whining is usually accompanied by excited body language, such as tail wagging, bouncing, and running in circles.
It can also be accompanied by other vocalizations, such as barking, howling, or tipping.
German Shepherds may also whine when anticipating something good to happen, such as a walk or playtime. They may be so excited that they cannot express their enthusiasm through whining.
As we all know, German Shepherds are a high-energy dog breed, and when it comes time to do some activities, they become too excited and happy because of that!
Some of the most common signs of excitement in German Shepherds are:
1. Whining
2. Barking
3. Pawing at you or pushing against you
4. Sleeping on your feet or following you around the house
5. Sitting and staring intently at you
6. Jumping up onto your lap when given the chance
7. Bringing a toy to show off, wanting to be played with
8. Tilting their head when looking at you for longer periods of time than usual
9. Licking and nibbling on your hands or feet
10. Stretching out close by while lying down
They are seeking comfort
German Shepherds often whine when they are seeking comfort. This whining may occur when a dog feels scared, anxious, or overwhelmed. Dogs may also whine when they experience physical discomfort, such as pain from a medical condition.
When dogs whine for comfort, they are trying to communicate their need for something comforting and reassuring. This can include physical comfort, such as being petted or hugged by an owner.
It's important to be aware of the signs that your German Shepherd may be seeking comfort and to provide them with what they need, whether it's a hug, some extra love, and attention, or even a safe place to hide from overwhelming situations.
Here are the 10 most common signs that your German Shepherd doesn't feel comfortable:
1. Whining
2. Panting
3. Hiding or seeking out secluded areas
4. Trembling or shaking
5. Yawning excessively
6. Licking their lips or nose often
7. Avoidance of eye contact or hiding behind objects
8. Aggressive behavior towards other people and animals
9. Pacing back and forth
10. Drooling
As a way to communicate with other dogs
German Shepherds can whine to communicate with other dogs. They use this form of vocal communication to express their emotions, desires, and needs. Whining is just one of the many ways that dogs communicate.
When a dog whines, it can mean several different things depending on the context. It could be a sign of distress or fear, an invitation to play, or even a way to get attention.
đź“ť Related blog post: Why do German Shepherds Groan?Â
German Shepherds may also whine when trying to greet other dogs in a friendly manner. It can be seen as an attempt to initiate social interaction and communication.
Here are 10 signs that your German Shepherd is trying to communicate with other dogs:
1. Whining
2. Tail wagging
3. Sniffing or licking the other dog
4. Making eye contact
5. Play bowing
6. Sitting and facing the other dog
7. Yawning
8. Lifting a paw to touch another animal’s muzzle in greeting
9. Flattening ears against the head as if trying to appear smaller or submissive
10. Growling playfully
When they experience separation anxiety
German Shepherds may whine when they experience separation anxiety due to the distress of being left alone. When dogs are used to having their owners around, it can be difficult for them to cope with the absence of their beloved guardians.
Separation anxiety is when dogs become stressed or anxious when their owners leave them alone, which can cause them to whine, bark, pace, or even have accidents indoors.
To reduce separation anxiety in your German Shepherd, it is important to provide ample mental and physical stimulation before you leave them alone. This can include engaging activities like dog sports or interactive toys they can play with while you’re away.
Related blog post: German Shepherd Separation Anxiety (learn how to beat it)
Here are the 10 most common signs of separation anxiety in German Shepherds:
1. Whining and barking excessively
2. Pacing or following you around the house
3. Attempting to escape from the home
4. Destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture
5. Excessive drooling or panting
6. Refusal to eat, drink, or play with toys
7 Urinating or defecating indoors when usually well-trained in this area
8 Seeking out attention from people more than usual
9 A decrease in energy levels and general activity level
10 Becoming agitated by small changes in routine
If you notice that there's a huge chance that your German Shepherd has separation anxiety, please don't ignore it. Contact your vet and professional dog trainer and ask for help.
Separation anxiety is one of German Shepherds' most common health problems, and it should be treated as soon as possible.
Boredom or loneliness
German Shepherds can whine when they are bored or lonely. This is a common behavior in German Shepherds and other breeds of dogs. Whining can be an indication that the animal is in need of mental stimulation or companionship.
When German Shepherds are left alone for long periods of time with no mental stimulation or social interaction, they can become bored and lonely, which may result in whining.
It's important to provide plenty of daily exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization opportunities for your German Shepherd to ensure that he or she is not bored or lonely. This can include activities such as training sessions, walks, and playtime with other dogs and people.
German Shepherds are very social dogs, so it's also important to ensure they have a companion when you're unavailable. This could be another dog or a human companion who can provide your pup's attention and companionship.
Related blog post: Can German Shepherds actually be left alone?
If you don't plan to get another dog, or no one can watch your dog while you're at work, make sure to tire your German Shepherd before leaving him alone.
Here are the 10 most common signs of boredom and loneliness in German Shepherds dogs:
1. Whining
2. Excessive barking
3. Digging or scratching at the door, walls, or floors
4. Pacing around the house aimlessly
5. Refusing to eat or drink when usually well-fed
6. Loss of energy and enthusiasm for activities they normally enjoy
7. Destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or household items
8. Constant licking and grooming
9. Retreating to a quiet corner of the house
10. Becoming overly clingy with their owners
Pain, discomfort, or illness
Whining is one of the ways that a German Shepherd communicates discomfort and can be an indication that something is wrong. It's important to pay close attention to your German Shepherd's behavior if he or she begins whining unexpectedly and persistently, as this could mean that they are in pain or suffering from an underlying medical condition.
If your German Shepherd is whining due to pain or discomfort, it's important to take him or her to the vet as soon as possible for a full check-up and diagnosis. This will ensure that any medical issues can be identified and treated properly.
It's also possible that the whining is due to an illness or infection of some kind. If this is the case, prompt veterinary care is essential for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the illness and how long it has been, your veterinarian may recommend hospitalization or further tests to ensure that the most effective treatment is prescribed.
No matter what is causing your German Shepherd to whine, it's important to pay close attention and get professional help as soon as possible if the whining persists.
Here are the 10 most common signs that your German Shepherd feels some pain or discomfort:
1. Whining
2. Panting excessively
3. Loss of appetite
4. Unusual lethargy or depression
5. Difficulty walking or moving
6. Aggressive behavior towards people and other animals
7. Excessive licking of a certain area on their body
8. Holding up one limb when walking, limping, favoring one side when standing
9. Change in posture - e.g., hunched back or tucked tail
10. Shying away from petting and/or cowering
Puppies have not yet learned how to express themselves without vocalizing
As German Shepherd puppies grow, they will learn how to express themselves more effectively by utilizing body language and facial expressions, which help them better convey how they are feeling. In the meantime, puppies rely on their vocalizations—whining, tipping, barking, and growling — to communicate their needs and desires.
Puppies may whine when hungry, lonely, or uncomfortable; yip in excitement; bark at unfamiliar people or animals; and growl when they feel threatened.
Puppies will also use vocalizations to let their owners know they need attention or affection. A puppy may bark or whine, signaling their desire for a warm lap and some cuddles, or they might start howling if they feel ignored.
In the early months, puppies need continual reassurance that they are safe and loved. Responding to vocalizations with gentle yet firm guidance will help your puppy understand which behaviors are acceptable and which are not.
Here are the 10 most common signs that your German Shepherd puppy is trying to communicate with you:
1. Barking
2. Whining
3. Yipping
4. Growling
5. Tail wagging
6. Nose nudging/sniffing
7. Sitting close to you or in front of you
8. Jumping up on your lap
9. Stretching out and rolling over on their back for belly rubs
10. Play bowing (front paws down, rear end up)
How do I get my German Shepherd to stop whining?
Now that we know almost all potential reasons why German Shepherd dogs may whine let's see how we can solve this problem and stop German Shepherds from whining.
Here are the 7 different ways to stop whining in German Shepherd dogs:
1. Monitor and limit excessive stimulation: German Shepherds sometimes whine because they’re over-stimulated. To prevent this from happening, try to limit their exposure to excessive noise, people, and animals.
2. Exercise your dog regularly: Daily exercise is important for any dog, especially German Shepherds, as they are energetic breeds that need a lot of physical activity.
When it comes to caring for a German Shepherd, one of the most important factors is providing them with enough daily exercise. Daily exercise helps keep your German Shepherd fit and healthy and helps prevent behavior problems such as barking or whining.
The amount of exercise a German Shepherd needs depends on age, size, health, and activity level. Generally, a German Shepherd should get at least 30-90 minutes of exercise daily, such as walks, runs, or playtime.
3. Provide mental and physical stimulation: German Shepherds are intelligent, active dogs that need mental and physical stimulation. Keeping your German Shepherd mentally stimulated can help prevent excessive whining and barking.
Toys, puzzle games, and brain teasers are great ways to give your German Shepherd the mental stimulation they need. You can also enroll them in agility classes or teach them fun new tricks.
4. Ignore the whining: If your German Shepherd starts to whine, it’s important to resist the urge to comfort them. This is because dogs often interpret comfort as a reward for behavior they shouldn’t be doing.
Instead, ignore the whining and do not offer any verbal or physical attention until the behavior stops. After a few minutes of ignoring the whining, reward them with verbal praise or treats when they stop.
But be careful! First, ensure everything is fine with your German Shepherd and that he doesn't feel discomfort or pain.
5. Get to the root cause of the problem: German Shepherds may whine to express fear, anxiety, stress, or boredom. To get to the root cause of the problem and stop your German Shepherd from whining, it’s important to identify what is causing them distress.
Once you identify the root cause of whining, you can start with treatment or training.
6. Use positive reinforcement training techniques: Positive reinforcement training is a type of dog training that uses food, toys, or verbal praise as rewards for good behavior.
Positive reinforcement training can help your German Shepherd learn new commands and behaviors and prevent unwanted ones like whining.
7. Talk to a veterinarian if needed: If you’re having trouble getting your German Shepherd to stop whining or the problem persists, talk to your veterinarian. They can help identify any underlying medical causes and advise on best address the issue.
German Shepherd high pitched whine
A high-pitched whining sound is an indicator of anxiety in German Shepherds. It's usually a sign that your dog is feeling stressed or fearful. It can also be a response to stimuli, such as changes in the environment, visitors, or changes in routine.
Suppose the whining persists for more than a few minutes, and you can't determine its cause. In that case, you should consult your veterinarian to ensure an underlying medical condition isn't causing it.
Does high pitched whine mean that your German Shepherd shows anxiety in every scenario?
Of course not. In most cases, the high pitched whine is an indicator of anxiety, but also high-pitched whine can indicate that your German Shepherd is too excited.
It's important to understand the body language of your German Shepherd if you want to understand what he wants from you. In the beginning, it will be difficult.
But once you understand the dog's body language, your life, and your dog's life will be much easier!
German Shepherd Whining and Health-Related Issues
Whining in German Shepherds can sometimes be an indicator of health-related issues. Understanding these can help owners identify and address potential health problems in their dogs.
Here is the list of the most common health issues that can trigger whining in the German Shepherds:
1. Pain or Discomfort: Whining can be a sign of pain, common in German Shepherds with hip dysplasia, a genetic condition prevalent in the breed. It causes joint pain, especially in the hips, and can lead to arthritis. Other pain-related causes include injuries, dental problems, or internal discomfort
2. Anxiety or Stress: German Shepherds are prone to anxiety which can manifest as whining. This could be due to separation anxiety, fear, or environmental stressors.
3. Neurological Disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as epilepsy, can cause disorientation or discomfort, leading to whining.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues: Problems like bloating, constipation, or dietary intolerances can cause abdominal pain, resulting in whining or whimpering.
5. Ear or Eye Problems: Infections or inflammation in the ears or eyes can be painful, causing a dog to whine for relief.
Statistics and Facts:
- Hip Dysplasia Prevalence: Studies suggest that up to 20% of German Shepherds are affected by hip dysplasia.
- Anxiety-Related Issues: German Shepherds rank high among breeds prone to separation anxiety, with behavioral studies indicating that around 14% may suffer from this condition.
- Sensitivity to Pain: Research shows that certain breeds, including German Shepherds, may have a higher sensitivity to pain, making them more likely to vocalize when in discomfort.
Identifying Health-Related Whining:
- Sudden Onset: A sudden increase in whining, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior, can indicate a health issue.
- Pain Signs: Look for physical signs of discomfort like limping, favoring a limb, or reluctance to engage in usual activities.
- Behavioral Changes: Increases in anxiety-related behaviors, such as pacing, excessive licking, or hiding, can accompany whining.
What to Do:
If your German Shepherd is whining more than usual and you suspect it might be health-related, it's essential to consult a veterinarian. A thorough examination can help identify any underlying issues and provide appropriate treatment. In many cases, early intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for your dog and potentially prevent more serious complications.
By understanding the potential health-related causes of whining in German Shepherds, owners can be more proactive in caring for their pet's physical and emotional well-being.
Why does my German Shepherd whine at night?
Your German Shepherd might whine at night for various reasons. One common reason is that they are feeling anxious or stressed, which can be caused by changes in their environment, visitors, loud noises, or changes in routine.
As mentioned in this article, dogs are naturally very social animals and crave companionship and interaction. If your German Shepherd is left alone at night, it may whine out of loneliness or boredom.
To prevent your German Shepherd from whining at night, you should ensure its environment is comfortable and secure. Provide them with plenty of mental stimulation during the day, give them a comfortable resting spot in your home, and make sure to spend quality time with them before bedtime.
If these tips don't work, you should consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical causes. They can also help you develop an effective training plan to address the behavior.
Why does my German Shepherd whine when I pet him?
Your German Shepherd might whine when you pet him for various reasons. It could be a sign that he's feeling uncomfortable with the physical contact, that he's too excited and happy because you pet him, or he may be trying to communicate that he wants something from you.
No one knows our dog better than us, and we should learn to make a difference between uncomfortable and comfortable zone.
If your German Shepherd whines while you pet him and he's calm and relaxed, he really enjoys petting.
On the other hand, if you pet your German Shepherd dog and after that, he whines and tries to move away from you, this is a good sign that he doesn't feel comfortable and that something is wrong.
Also, some German Shepherds may whine in anticipation of receiving a treat or other reward after being petted.
In a situation like this, it's crucial to understand the dog's body language to make the right decision.
Why does my German Shepherd whine when he sees me?
Your German Shepherd likely whines when he sees you as a sign of excitement and affection. This behavior is common in dogs who are expressing happiness and eagerness to interact with their favorite person. It's a form of canine communication showing love and joy.
When your German Shepherd whines upon seeing you, it's often a display of strong emotional connection and excitement. Dogs use vocalizations like whining to communicate, and in this context, it's typically a positive sign.
Your presence might trigger feelings of joy and anticipation in your dog, leading to whining as an expression of these emotions. It's akin to a human's excited greeting, showing that they've missed you and are eager for your attention, affection, or playtime.
Are German Shepherds more vocal than other dog breeds?
Yes, German Shepherds tend to be more vocal than other breeds. They bark, growl, and whine more frequently compared to other breeds. This can be attributed to the fact that they are naturally very social animals and crave companionship and interaction.
German Shepherds may bark out of boredom or loneliness, especially if left alone for extended periods. They may also bark to alert you of potential danger or if they feel threatened or anxious.
We will say again, but it's important to understand the body language of your German Shepherd if you want to understand what he wants from you. That way, you can act accordingly and prevent undesirable barking or whining behavior.
More details
Here is an example of a German Shepherd whining.
The German Shepherd in this video is probably trying to say something to its owner, and the words that he is trying to say is: "I miss my mom!".
Final words
If your German Shepherd is feeling anxious or sad, observing their behavior can help you understand what they’re trying to communicate.
Providing them with a sense of security, routine, exercise, and affection will go a long way in calming down any anxiety-related behaviors like whining or barking.
Does whining always mean that your German Shepherd feels uncomfortable and insecure?
Of course not! As we mentioned, German Shepherds can also whine when they are too excited.
The most important skill that you must have as a German Shepherd owner is reading dog body language. This skill in situations like this is important and can prevent many bad outcomes.
When you notice your German Shepherd whining because he's insecure, scared, or uncomfortable, react immediately to solve this issue.
If you're stuck in situations like this, feel free to ask for professional help.
Frequently asked questions
Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here!
âť“What are German Shepherds afraid of?
German Shepherds can be afraid of various things, depending on their individual personalities and experiences. Some common phobias in German Shepherds include loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, and changes in routine.
They may also be scared of being left alone for long periods of time or sudden movements from objects or people.
It is important to pay attention to signs of stress or anxiety and take steps to address the underlying cause. For example, to ensure your German Shepherd develops a sense of security and comfort in all situations, introduce them to new environments step-by-step.
âť“Do all German Shepherds whine?
No, not all German Shepherds whine. While many of these dogs tend to be more vocal than other breeds, they do not all necessarily whine. Some may bark out of boredom or loneliness, while others may bark to alert you of potential danger or if they feel threatened or anxious.
However, it's also important to think that a German Shepherd may whine if they feel uncomfortable or scared. Thus, observing your dog's behavior and body language is important to understand better what they are trying to communicate.
âť“How do I calm my anxious German Shepherd?
One of the best ways to calm an anxious German Shepherd is to provide them with a sense of security, structure, and routine. This means setting up a consistent feeding schedule and providing regular exercise through walks or playtime.
Having a designated area where your dog can be alone and feel safe can also help to reduce their anxiety levels.
âť“How can I tell if my German Shepherd is sad?
One of the most common signs that your German Shepherd may be feeling sad is changes in his behavior, such as reduced activity or lack of interest in things he would normally find enjoyable. He may become less vocal, stop jumping and playing, or spend more time alone.
Other behaviors to look out for include sleeping more than usual, loss of appetite, and changes in his body language, such as avoiding eye contact or lowering his head.
âť“Are German Shepherds affectionate?
Yes, German Shepherds are known to be particularly affectionate and loyal dogs. They strongly bond with their owners and love to cuddle and receive attention. They are very social animals and thrive on companionship – they don’t like being left alone for the vast majority of the time.
Not only is the German Shepherd a great companion, but they can also be quite protective of their owners and those they love. This makes them excellent guard dogs as well. With proper training, German Shepherds make a wonderful addition to any family.
âť“Why do German Shepherds need so much attention?
German Shepherds are highly social dogs that crave companionship and interaction. They need attention from their owners to stay mentally and physically stimulated. Without spending quality time with their owners, they may suffer from boredom or loneliness, resulting in undesirable behaviors such as barking or whining.
It's important that German Shepherds receive plenty of love and attention from their owners as a sign of affection to feel secure and safe in any situation. Providing daily walks or playing fetch are great activities to keep your German Shepherd happy and healthy!
âť“Do German Shepherds get separation anxiety?
Yes, German Shepherds can suffer from separation anxiety. This is a condition in which a dog feels distressed or scared when separated from their owner for an extended period of time. This can result in them barking, howling, pacing, chewing on furniture, urinating or defecating indoors, and even trying to escape.
âť“What calms a whining dog?
One of the best ways to calm a whining dog is to provide them with structure and routine in its daily life. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule and providing regular exercises, such as walks or playtime, can help keep them feeling secure and content.
Creating a designated area where your dog can feel safe when left alone also helps to reduce their anxiety levels. Additionally, showing them love and affection is key in calming a whining dog.
