Do Dogs Howl Because They See Ghosts Or Are They Trying to Tell Us Something?

Created By RISC | 13 hours ago

Last modified date : 13 hours ago

When it comes to spooky stories, a dog’s howl often makes us wonder… is it howling because it sees a ghost, or is there another reason?

While the sound of a dog howling at night can give us goosebumps and spark our imagination about the supernatural, the reality is usually much simpler. Dogs may howl naturally in response to environmental stimuli like sounds or smells, or due to emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, hunger, or even physical discomfort.

So, what can we do to prevent our dogs from howling? The first step is to understand the cause — only then can we address it effectively.

• Wicket Door – If your dog often howls or scratches at the door wanting to go outside to play or relieve itself, consider installing a specially designed wicket door. This allows your dog to move freely between the room, balcony, or designated toilet area without waiting for you to open or close the door.
• Soundproof Walls – Dogs with sensitive hearing may react to every little sound — from other dogs howling in the neighborhood, music from next door, nighttime sirens, to high-frequency noises humans can’t hear. In such cases, soundproof walls are essential. Thicker walls or added insulation can minimize unwanted noise from outside. For those living in condominiums or shared buildings, dogs may bark or howl when they hear footsteps in the hallway if the unit wasn’t designed with sound insulation in mind. When choosing a condo, it’s worth checking that the walls provide good soundproofing.

As a guideline: Walls between a unit and a corridor should have a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of at least 45 (e.g., 15 cm thick lightweight concrete walls). Walls between residential units should have an STC rating of at least 50 (20 cm thick lightweight concrete walls). For superior performance, an STC rating of 55 is recommended (e.g., double-layer lightweight concrete walls with an air gap, totaling 25 cm in thickness).

• Soundproof Doors – Doors can also transmit noise. To reduce sound, choose solid-core doors or doors with built-in soundproof insulation. For best results, install rubber seals around the edges and bottom to block any gaps where sound could pass through.
• Ventilation Systems to Reduce Odors – Unpleasant smells inside or outside the home can cause discomfort or anxiety in dogs, triggering barking or howling. Adequate windows for natural ventilation help disperse odors. Even better, mechanical ventilation or an air-exchange system can quickly eliminate unwanted smells and improve indoor air quality.

The most effective way to prevent unexplained howling is through attentive care and affection. When dogs feel loved and secure, they are far less likely to feel anxious or lonely. Pay close attention to their behavior — if signs of illness or distress appear, take them to the vet promptly. Ensure their well-being through proper food, clean water, regular exercise, and time outdoors. Access to nearby green spaces also allows dogs to burn energy happily while enjoying quality time with their owners.

If you need to be away during the day, it’s important to give your dog some freedom — a chance to walk around, enjoy the view, and breathe fresh air. This helps them relax, relieve stress, and reduce anxiety.

Sharing a happy living space nurtures not only emotional well-being but also contributes to better physical health — for both you and your pets.

As for the supernatural — who’s to say what’s real? But next time you hear a dog howling at night, don’t be alarmed or annoyed. Instead, take a moment to check if something might be wrong — with your own dog or perhaps a neighbor’s. After all, that howl might be their way of communicating or asking for help.

Whizdom The Forestias Petopia — a forest-view condominium surrounded by 30 rai of greenery — is thoughtfully designed with a deep understanding of both pet and owner lifestyles. Features such as a Wicket Door for pet freedom, double-layer soundproof walls, sound-insulated doors with Door Seal and Drop Seal systems, and an ERV and Fresh Air Fan to keep indoor air clean and fresh all come together to create a home where both you and your pets can truly share happiness.

Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President, RISC