Music can evoke emotions in humans and dogs, with certain breeds known for howling along to tunes. Many dog owners have witnessed the amusing—and often heartwarming—sight of their pet joining in on a song. Howling is an instinctive behavior, rooted in their wild ancestors like wolves. Some breeds are more prone to this musical expression, often howling in response to sirens, other dogs, or even their owner’s singing. Whether it’s a catchy melody or a high note, these breeds will likely add their unique voice to your soundtrack.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are one of the most vocal dog breeds and are famous for their dramatic howling. Bred to work in packs as sled dogs, Huskies communicate through vocalizations, including howls, barks, and “talking.” Their howling isn’t just limited to communicating with other dogs or reacting to environmental stimuli; they also love joining in with sounds they find interesting. When you play your favorite song, a Siberian Husky is highly likely to add its own harmony, howling along to the tune with enthusiasm. Their expressive nature and pack mentality make them one of the breeds most prone to howling, and many Husky owners find this vocal behavior both entertaining and endearing.
Beagle
With their hunting background, beagles are no strangers to using their voices to communicate. Originally bred to track and hunt in packs, Beagles rely on vocalizations to signal their position to other dogs and human handlers. This tendency to vocalize also makes them prime candidates for howling along to music. Beagles are particularly responsive to high-pitched sounds, so if your favorite song has a catchy chorus or a soaring melody, don’t be surprised if your Beagle chimes in. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them eager to interact with their environment, and howling is just one more way they express themselves.
Basset Hound
Known for their deep, resonant howls, Basset Hounds are another breed that is likely to join in when music is playing. Basset Hounds were bred as scent hounds, and their strong, low-pitched howls were used to alert hunters to their position while they tracked prey. Today, Basset Hounds are more likely to be found lounging on the couch than hunting, but their howling instinct remains. When a familiar tune comes on, a Basset Hound may respond with a deep, soulful howl that adds a unique bassline to the music. Despite their laid-back demeanor, Basset Hounds are known for being vocal, and their howling is often prompted by sounds they find intriguing, including music.
Alaskan Malamute
Like their close relatives, the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamutes are known for their vocal nature. As another breed used in sledding and working in packs, Malamutes have developed a range of vocalizations to communicate with their packmates and handlers. Their howling is often triggered by high-pitched sounds, including sirens, other dogs, and, of course, music. When you start singing or playing a song, an Alaskan Malamute will likely join in with its melodious howling. Their howls are often deep and long, adding a dramatic flair to any song. While Malamutes are independent dogs, their howling shows their desire to connect and communicate with those around them.
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are famous for their powerful noses and ability to track scents over great distances, but they are also known for their loud, booming howls. Bred to track game, Bloodhounds use their voices to signal their location to hunters, and this instinct has carried over into their behavior as pets. Bloodhounds have a distinctive, deep howl that can carry over long distances, and they are often triggered to howl by sounds that catch their attention, including music. If your Bloodhound hears a note that resonates with them, they may join in with a booming howl, adding a dramatic touch to your favorite song. Their howling reflects their strong instincts and their need to communicate.
Finnish Lapphund
A lesser-known breed, the Finnish Lapphund is a spitz-type dog originally bred for herding reindeer in the harsh climates of northern Scandinavia. Finnish Lapphunds are vocal dogs, using a variety of sounds to communicate with their handlers and other dogs. Their howling, in particular, is often triggered by high-pitched noises, making them one of the breeds most likely to join in with music. The Finnish Lapphund’s howling is less intense than some of the other breeds on this list, but their natural inclination to vocalize still makes them strong contenders for musical howling sessions. Their friendly, lively personalities make them fun companions, and their musical contributions are another way to bond with their owners.
The Soundtrack of Your Dog’s Life
Whether known for their dramatic howls or softer vocalizations, these breeds will add flair to your musical life. From a Husky’s high-pitched harmony to a Bloodhound’s deep bassline, these dogs bring a unique voice to the melodies in your home. Howling is a natural instinct for many dogs, and music gives them a fun way to express themselves. So, next time you play your favorite tune, don’t be surprised if your dog joins in, creating a heartwarming and entertaining duet.
Toledo, United States.
