howls

A howl is a long, loud vocalization produced by certain canids, most notably wolves and coyotes, and also by domestic dogs. It is characterized by a sustained, resonant pitch that can carry over long distances. While commonly associated with these species, other canids such as jackals and dingoes also emit howling-like calls, and some domestic dogs howl in a similar manner.

Howling results from vibration of the vocal folds within the larynx, with the mouth open and the vocal tract shaped to emphasize resonant tones. The exact sound depends on factors such as body size, age, and health, as well as the animal’s anatomy. Howls often exhibit pitch variation, with rising and falling contours and sometimes rhythmic repetitions.

In the wild, howling serves several forms of long-distance communication. It helps locate pack members, coordinate movement after hunts, declare territory, and reinforce social bonds. Howling can also warn intruders or rival packs from a distance and make the caller easier to locate by others in the group through shared listening.

Domestic dogs retain the ability to howl, though triggers and tonal qualities vary widely by breed and individual. Some breeds are particularly prone to howling, including huskies and alaskan malamutes, while others may howl in response to sirens, music, or other sounds. The behavior is often more pronounced in social or vocal dogs and can be influenced by training and environment.

Beyond biology, howling appears in culture and media as a symbol of wilderness and mystery. Researchers study it as a form of social communication and a mechanism for coordinating group behavior, while writers and filmmakers frequently portray wolves and other canids as howling figures in stories and folklore.