Prakash Kafle / Kathmandu: Even today, many people feel Fear when they hear dogs howling at night. In society, the sound of a dog crying is often associated with bad omens, a sign of death, or connected to supernatural forces. However, according to experts, it is more important to understand dog behavior from a scientific perspective rather than relying on such beliefs.
According to traditional beliefs, dogs are said to sense forces that humans cannot see. Therefore, some people assume that if a dog howls at night, it may signal misfortune in the house or neighborhood. However, there is no solid scientific evidence to support such claims so far.
According to animal behavior experts, a dog’s howling is actually a natural form of communication. Since dogs are descendants of wolves, they still retain the habit of “howling” to send signals over long distances. At night, when the environment is quieter, such sounds are heard more clearly.
Experts say that dogs may also howl due to loneliness, fear, hunger, or physical discomfort. Additionally, loud noises—such as ambulance sirens or other sounds—can trigger a response in dogs. When one dog starts howling, others often follow, creating the impression of a collective cry.
In this context, veterinarians suggest that instead of falling into superstition when hearing dogs howl, people should pay attention to the dog’s health and condition. Continuous howling may indicate injury, illness, or stress, and seeking treatment if necessary is appropriate.
Overall, while the belief that a dog howling at night brings misfortune is based on cultural traditions, science explains it as normal behavior. Therefore, adopting an informed and rational perspective rather than fear is essential.
