I used to think that growling is bad.
I thought we had to “correct” that behaviour.
I’ve since learned that growling is actually wonderful — it’s our dog communicating with us.
They’re telling us that they’re uncomfortable, not happy, need help, or need space.
“Never punish a growl.”
This is a phrase I learned along the way, and it’s so important.
If we don’t allow dogs to communicate when they’re feeling uncomfortable — if we don’t listen — they may eventually feel that they have no choice, and that can result in a bite.
Dogs communicate very well. We’re just not always great at understanding them.
Lip licking, whale eye, and tail tucking are other clear signals that they’re not comfortable.
I still make mistakes sometimes. If a growl is escalating to a bark and I’m trying to train the “quiet” cue, I remind myself not to silence the growl. I need to know how he’s feeling.
If he realises I’ll listen to the growl and respond accordingly (e.g., by advocating for him or creating space), then hopefully he’ll eventually understand that he doesn’t need to make the trigger go away himself.
He doesn’t need to bark and lunge. He’ll learn that he’s told me he’s uncomfortable — and that I’ve got it.
It’s a work in progress. We’re definitely not there yet.
But never punish a growl. It’s very important communication.