Playful Growl or Primal Threat? Learning About Your Dog's Growling
Playful Growl or Primal Threat? Learning About Your Dog's Growling Does your dog turn into a growling gremlin during playtime? You're not alone. Growling is a common canine communication tool, but it can be unsettling for pet parents, especially when the context seems playful. Here's the thing: not all growls are created equal. Learning to differentiate between a playful rumble and a warning growl can help you keep playtime safe and enjoyable for everyone. The Many Meanings of Growling Growling is a natural part of a dog's communication repertoire. Growling can express various emotional states, from playfulness, pleasure, fear, frustration, and aggression. Take context and body language into account. Keep in mind a dog’s pitch and volume depend on their breed and size, therefore there will be variations. Playful Growling: All Bark and No Bite Play growls are a common feature of roughhousing between dogs or during play sessions with humans, especially when playing tug...
