Training your furry friend is an important part of being a dog parent; plus, it has many benefits, including socialisation and obedience. If you're looking to incorporate a training tool, a dog whistle may be a good option for you and your pup.
But as a pet parent, you may be wondering: How does a dog whistle work? Do dog whistles hurt dogs' ears? What are the advantages of using a whistle? These are important questions to consider when looking into using a dog whistle.
How Dog Whistles Work
Whistles have been used for dog training and communication for generations. Prior to that, humans communicated with their dogs by whistling the old-fashioned way, with their breath. You can use a whistle to "talk" with your dog and establish a behavioural routine, just as you do with verbal commands or clicker training for "sit" and "stay" or playing fetch.
Dogs respond to even the quietest of whistles because they hear at a much higher frequency than humans. "Dogs and people hear about the same at low frequencies of sound (around 20Hz). This changes at high frequencies of sound, where dogs hear up to 70-100kHz, much better than people at only 20kHz," say scientists at the University of Adelaide in Australia, and dogs "hear sound frequencies at least three times as high compared to people." It may seem as if dogs react to a noise that's not there when, in reality, they're highly sensitive to something we can't hear.
You may have to try out a few different types of whistles to see which one offers you the range of sounds you (and your dog) prefer. Start by learning how to use the whistle properly (practice, practice, practice), and then play around with the sounds to figure out which tones will work for which commands.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:
Positive Reinforcement Training For Your Dog Read More
Tasty Tips
Audible and Silent Whistles
There are two types of whistles to choose from: audible or silent — with "silent" in this case meaning silent for humans, not dogs. Some whistles are equipped with adjustable pitches, too.
Audible whistles are helpful when you're working out the sounds you want to use and ensure that you're being consistent. This style looks much like a whistle used at sporting events and, in fact, it's used during herding dog events.
Many dog parents prefer silent whistles because there's less noise interference for people. This type of whistle, invented in 1876 by Sir Francis Galton, was used to test hearing levels in humans, cats and dogs. The term "ultrasonic whistle" is more accurate because, as noted above, the whistle isn't silent — it emits ultrasonic sounds to which dogs respond. According to dog electronics retailer eDog, the advantage of this type of whistle is that they emit sound waves that are generally inaudible to humans.
Do Dog Whistles Hurt Dogs' Ears?
A dog whistle won't harm your dog when used properly. Read the manufacturer information carefully and speak with your veterinarian about any questions you have.
Because dogs hear at a much higher frequency than humans, they're naturally more sensitive to sounds. Don't use the whistle close to their ears, and avoid blowing it at full strength. As Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, writes for Petful, these "noises to the top of the dog's ability to hear can cause pain if they are loud enough. It's like the difference between a referee blowing a whistle on the football field versus blowing that same whistle directly in your ear." That's a big difference.
Be mindful of other animals in your home and surroundings, too. Cats hear high-frequency sounds even better than dogs and will respond accordingly. Always remember that what seems like a benign noise to you can be disruptive and uncomfortable for your dog (and cat).
As with any behaviour training, using a dog whistle consistently and patiently is the key to success.
Related products
Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Related articles
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Learn what you can feed your pregnant or nursing dog to keep her and her new pups healthy.
Helpful Tips for Exercising with Your Dog
Though it may seem like your four-legged friend loves nothing more than to nap on the couch, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy just like people do.
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Selecting the right food for your puppy is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life., Learn more about how to select the right puppy food.
Things You Can Do to Help Your Dog's Sensitive Stomach
A dog with a sensitive stomach has special needs. Learn more about sensitive stomach symptoms in your dog, what you can do to help sooth your pet’s insides and get recommendations on sensitive stomach dog food.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.