Dog Moaning & Groaning: What Do Your Pet's Noises Mean?

Is your dog moaning or groaning oddly and frequently? After a day of play, hearing your bunch of puppies moan or dog sounds when they lie down, jump, or move in sporadic motions can be jarring for most owners. Nobody knows your dog as you do. But when your dog barks or begins to howl regularly, paired with other abnormal habits such as biting their joints or licking some parts of their legs, your dog is probably uncomfortable.

 

But your dog's moaning and groaning does not always mean they're in pain. Sometimes, (unlike other dogs), many dogs groan because they are genuinely happy or satisfied. Similarly, your dog's bark or even your dog's growls may mean they are overjoyed. Understanding what these sounds mean takes time, especially for first-time owners. In this guide, we will show you how to spot a painful dog moan, groan, and everything in-between, as well as its possible causes and how you can help them get comfortable.

 

 

Dog Moaning & Dog Groaning?

Most people confuse moaning for groaning and vice versa — the two may mean completely different things or the same. It all depends on the behavior of your pup. 

 

When you have an extra vocal dog in the house, it may be normal to hear them moaning and groaning. For example, Siberian Huskies are famous for regularly howling regardless of their mood. For the usually quiet dog breeds and types, making noises at odd times of the day is worrisome. Dogs have no other way to vocalize their thoughts and feelings — they can only say what they want through body language and create sounds like a whine, whimper, moan, or groan.

 

 

 

 

How Does a Groan or a Moan Sound?

A groan is a usually low, deep grunting-like noise that means disapproval, suffering, or contentment. A deep, mournful, and sometimes prolonged low pitched groan signifies pain or discomfort to compare human sounds. For our four-legged friends, the sounds a dog makes when experiencing pain or feeling happy can be the same. 

 

On the other hand, a moan is a thinner, long-winded whining-like sound that aims to utter or signify pleasure. As mentioned, dogs can have different reasons why they moan or groan. It is usually associated with how they feel physically and emotionally, and they'll utilize these emotes to express joy or sadness. Sometimes, a dog craves attention and will express it through low-pitched moans. And since pups cannot speak for themselves, they'll communicate by moaning. 

 

If you have a puppy that suddenly groans when it tries to jump or move, pain is probably building up in their body. Elder dogs have more reasons to groan because of their age and because of their weakening health.

 

Is Moaning & Groaning Normal for Dogs?

Absolutely! Through moaning or groaning, our furry friends communicate. Some dogs are more expressive than others. If your pup frequently vocalizes, it could be a symptom of an underlying health problem, or it could be nothing at all. Ignoring these signs may have consequences. As a fur parent, keep watch of your dog and pay attention to their behavior. Observing your dog helps your veterinarian diagnose the issue further, too.

 

If your pup suddenly groans when they're trying to lie down, something could be going on in their tummy. When excessive fluid piles up in the abdomen, it may be tough on the entire body. Thus, the groaning would be a consequence of the pain and pressure. To distinguish an abnormal groan, feel the tension in your dog. Observe its actions, breathing, heart rate, and eyes. If anything feels out of the ordinary, it may be best to see your vet. 

 

Do Some Dogs Moan & Groan More Than Others?

Some dogs are more expressive in showing affection, happiness, sadness, pain, or discomfort. These are among the most talkative dog breeds. Below is a list of what breed organizations like the American Kennel Club describe as the most talkative breeds. If your dog is any of these breeds, you know it can be normal for them to groan:

 

• Siberian Husky. A husky howls a lot when it needs to convey something. It is natural for huskies to communicate with the members of their pack. 
• Miniature Schnauzer. While not much of a groaner or moaner, these cute pups in grey and pepper coat bark on anything that poses a threat.
• Beagle. Most Beagles have a prolonged moan that the owners or other dogs can instigate. This is called baying. These prolonged howling may sound endearing as if your dog is singing. 
• Chihuahua. This breed is typically extremely noisy — they bark a lot. Not training your Chihuahua can either turn it too aggressive or too shy. 
• Yorkshire Terrier. This cuddly furball is fueled with courage! This breed infamously yaps when provoked, as any brave pup does.
• Basset Hound. This dog with short legs and medium build with extra-long droopy ears houses a wide vocal range that seems to stretch every time they convey any message. Be it for treats or attention; the majestic Basset has a long and endearing howl. 
• Dachshund. This hunting breed is always on guard, ready to respond to any suspicious activity. The Dachshund is prone to separation anxiety, barking a lot when left alone. 
• German Shepherd. This energetic breed can bark at over 100 decibels! Famously expressive, the Shepherd vocalizes through howling, whining, and moaning. 

 

While it is normal for these talkative dogs to be noisy, good owners should be aware of the context these actions happen. Ignoring these cues can lead to all kinds of issues. 

 

 

Why Do Dogs Moan & Groan?

Moaning and groaning allow dogs to express how they feel. Some groans are outright expressions of happiness, excitement, or endearment. To know what this expression means, check the mannerisms coming with their groans or moans.

 

Good Moaning & Groaning

Can you identify how good groaning sounds? Below are some reasons your four-legged friend may be making strange grumbles. 

 

Getting Comfortable

The gentle noises paired with curling into the warmth of a blanket may indicate seeping deep into the comfy zone — a place most dogs frequent often. Pay close attention to how your pup's behavior. Sometimes these groans are to communicate happiness! 

 

Happy or Excited Dog

Snack or playtime may require your prompt your furry friend to freak out a bit. Your dog may have no room to contain their excitement. They end up groaning instead. Paired with attentive ears and a proud tail, their moans and groans show that they're actually happy!

 

Seeking attention

Sometimes, your dog's moaning is just to get your attention. They'll jump on you, wag their tail, bark, all in hopes of some acknowledgment. If your pet is behaving this way, it's time to take a breather and give them some love. 

 

Concerning Moans & Groans

A sudden shrieking long sigh, or something outside of your pet's common sounds daily, it may be best to seek your veterinarian for advice. While an abnormal noise from your pet may not always be considered signs of an underlying issue, its smart to take action. 

 

Moaning in Your Absence

Some dogs are especially attached to their owners and so loyal, they do not like the idea of socializing. If it is not accustomed to other people or pets, this can become a problem over time. Dogs can act differently upon separation from their owner in different situations like ownership changes, loss of a family member, or moving to a new home.

 

More than just vocalization, separation anxiety speaks louder when behavioral issues start to show. Groans and moans associated with separation anxiety, if not addressed sooner, can leave behavioral problems such as digging, chewing, or scratching pieces of stuff.

 

Stressful Moaning

Some dogs, especially the senior ones, can suffer bodily changes that leave them uncomfortable. You know your dog is suffering from stress and anxiety if you find these conditions:

 

• Disoriented
• Extremely irritable, restlessness 
• Slower response
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive barking
• Chewing

 

For older dogs, their groaning may be a result of cognitive dysfunction. Dogs groan louder when they are losing their hearing. Ensure to give time for veterinary visits because elder dogs will need therapies to overcome these changes in their body. The discomfort brought by chronic pain is so stressful for dogs, it can leave them groaning with unusual stressful behavior.

 

Groaning From Pain

Like humans, one of the most common sounds when in pain is a long-winded groan. It could be a sign of the early stages of osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia. These discomforts are aftermaths of weakening cartilages or bones brushing against each other. For the young pups, this could be a result of growing limbs. While this pain disappears after some time, this indicates future chronic issues.

 

There can even be more illnesses that bring discomfort to your dog. Some external illnesses will surely irritate your dog and cause them to moan and groan instinctively. Your dog may have painful skin conditions like inflammation or bruises. Parasites, although more irritable than painful, pester your pet externally.

 

 

Can You Help a Dog That's Moaning or Groaning?

Of course, you can. But you must find out if it's a good or bad groan. There's nothing to worry about good ones. You should keep an eye on a disturbing groan and bring your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Going for a check-up may help prevent future complications in your dog's health.

 

As a responsible owner, what can you do to help your pup feel happy and moan and groan in annoyance or painless? Keep scrolling to find out!

 

Spend More Time with Your Dog

Nothing beats the comfort of keeping your dog company. Simple gestures, such as rubbing the belly, patting the head, a few words of assurance, are the best ways to tell your pet it is okay. 

 

Create a Stress-Free Environment

You can lessen the pain in your dog by providing a comfortable environment. Nobody chills harder than man's best friend. A great, easy way to make your pet happy is to reward them. Why? Because why not. Pull out their favorite treats and toys. Give them their much-needed rest on a soft, cozy couch or bed with a warm blanket to make for the perfect stress-free environment. 

 

Locate Pain & Find Relief

Take note of all the signs. Does your dog only groan when you are together? That sound is probably a good groan. Does it groan when it tries to stand up or jump? It can be joint pain. Does it groan when confused or disoriented? It could be some cognitive issues, or it might be losing its hearing. Can it eat a full meal? If it cannot, maybe its tummy is upset.

 

When you go to the vet, answer all the questions honestly. This way, they can come up with the proper tests to conduct. After a careful diagnosis, your vet will understand the issue and move forward accordingly. But it's always a good idea to seek out professional advice if you deem your pet's moans and groans are is abnormal. 

 

 

 

 

Can CBD Help?

CBD oil and its subsequent byproducts may be helpful for dogs who are a bit skittish, hyperactive, uncomfortable, or responding with stress to their environment. CBD comes in all different kinds of consumption options too! You can get holistapet's CBD dog treats, capsules, and even shampoo. 

 

CBD is an all-natural compound in the cannabis plant. It promotes relaxation and can help dogs with a variety of issues. The best CBD is organic, stemming from non-GMO hemp. More so, look for third-party lab test documentation that ensures safety and efficacy.

 

HolistaPet CBD oil is also GMO-free, gluten-free, and suitable for vegans. We are a trusted source for high-quality CBD products; check out our countless customer reviews! We also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all orders, free shipping, Certificates of Analysis (COAs).

 

What's a COA? A Certificate of Analysis shows the outcome of an independent lab test on a product. The document lists all the ingredients in the product (in our case, the cannabinoids) and shows what to dose each ingredient is in the product. We lab test every batch of products for quality assurance, and our COAs prove it. You can find them under the "Why HolistaPet?" tab.

 

 

Final Thoughts - Dog Moaning & Groaning

Remember that you can always prevent your pooch from acquiring future health issues associated with groans and moans with a keen eye and an awareness of how they normally behave. Humans have the same way to express a sigh of relief, discontentment, or pain. However, the sounds are different from how dogs groan or moan. These are pretty normal gestures, but nobody knows your dog as you do. So you will probably take the hint if your dog's groan or moan is good. 

 

Remember, your dog only has you. And for it to live comfortably, it depends on you. Seek out advice from a veterinarian if their abnormal groaning persists for long periods. Make sure to investigate alternative forms of care like CBD! Your dog's troubles may be as easily settled as enjoying a tasty CBD treat once or twice a day.