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8 Dog Breeds With The Most Memorable Howls

Written by: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| Published on May 22, 2024
There’s something uniquely captivating about a dog’s howl. It’s a sound that can be haunting, melodic, and sometimes downright hilarious. Some breeds are particularly known for their memorable howls, each with its distinct personality and charm. From the deep, soulful wails of the Bloodhound to the exuberant yips of the Beagle, these vocal expressions are as varied as the breeds themselves. Let’s dive into the world of canine vocalization and explore the top 8 dog breeds with the most memorable howls, each with their quirky habits and endearing antics that make them truly unforgettable.

8. Beagle

Beagles are small dogs with a big voice, and their howls are no exception. Known for their distinctive baying, Beagles howl to communicate excitement and alertness, or sometimes just because they feel like it. These vocal hounds have a quirky habit of “singing” along with sirens, music, or even other dogs, creating a cacophony that can be both amusing and impressive. Beagles also tend to howl when they catch a scent, making their howls a regular part of their outdoor adventures. Their playful and curious nature means that a Beagle’s howl is often a prelude to some new and entertaining escapade.

7. Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are famous for their incredible sense of smell and their deep, resonant howls. These dogs have a hauntingly beautiful howl that echoes through the woods, making them sound like the canine version of a classical singer. Bloodhounds howl to communicate with their humans or to express their desire to follow a scent. Their howling is often accompanied by a soulful expression that seems to convey deep thoughts. Bloodhounds have a quirky habit of howling at the most unexpected times, such as in the middle of the night or during a quiet afternoon nap, adding a touch of drama to everyday life.

6. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are not just known for their striking looks and boundless energy; they are also renowned for their expressive howls. Huskies often howl to communicate with their pack, whether it’s their human family or other dogs. Their howls can range from a mournful wail to a playful yip, and they are known for their almost “talking” vocalizations. Huskies have a quirky habit of howling in response to music or other sounds, often creating their unique symphony. Their playful and mischievous nature means that a Husky’s howl is always full of character and charm.

5. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes, the larger cousins of the Husky, have a powerful and memorable howl that can carry for miles. These majestic dogs use their howls to communicate over long distances, harking back to their days as sled dogs in the Arctic. Malamutes have a deep, melodic howl that is often accompanied by a playful sparkle in their eyes. They have a quirky habit of howling along with sirens or other high-pitched noises, making it seem like they’re singing duets with the sounds of the city. Their howls, combined with their affectionate and playful demeanor, make Malamutes a truly memorable breed.

4. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds may be low to the ground, but their howls reach impressive heights. These long-eared hounds have a deep, resonant howl that can be surprisingly loud given their size. Bassets use their howls to communicate everything from boredom to excitement, often adding a dramatic flair to their vocalizations. They have a quirky habit of howling when left alone as if narrating their tale of woe. Despite their sometimes mournful howls, Basset Hounds are playful and affectionate dogs, and their vocal expressions are just one of the many endearing quirks that make them so lovable.

3. Dachshund

Dachshunds, with their long bodies and big personalities, are also known for their distinctive howls. These little dogs have a surprisingly loud and enthusiastic howl that can be both amusing and endearing. Dachshunds howl to express excitement, alertness, or sometimes just because they want attention. They have a quirky habit of howling at the TV, especially if there are animals on the screen, turning an ordinary evening of television into a vocal performance. Their playful and spirited nature means that a Dachshund’s howl is always full of character and charm.

2. American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dogs are not just known for their beautiful white coats and friendly nature; they also have a memorable howl. These dogs use their howls to communicate with their humans and express a range of emotions. Eskies have a quirky habit of howling along with music, often trying to match the pitch and tone, which can be both impressive and hilarious. Their howls are often a part of their playful antics, and their expressive faces add an extra layer of charm to their vocalizations. The combination of their beautiful appearance and memorable howls makes American Eskimo Dogs a truly unique breed.

1. Coonhound

Topping our list is the Coonhound, a breed known for its loud and distinctive howls. These hounds have a deep, booming howl that can carry for miles, making them excellent hunting companions. Coonhounds use their howls to communicate with their humans and other dogs, often howling to signal the location of their quarry. They have a quirky habit of howling in response to various sounds, from sirens to other animals, turning every outing into a vocal adventure. Despite their loud howls, Coonhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs, and their vocal expressions are just one of the many traits that make them so endearing.

These eight breeds not only have memorable howls but also bring joy and laughter with their unique quirks and silly habits. Whether it’s the melodic howl of the Bloodhound or the enthusiastic yips of the Beagle, each breed adds its own special touch to the world of canine vocalization. Here’s to our howling companions and the delightful sounds they bring into our lives, making every day a little more entertaining!