English Bulldog Howls Like He's Speaking His Own Little Language: 'Got A Lot To Say'

Some dog breeds are known for howling — from huskies and malamutes to beagles and dachshunds — while others, like English bulldogs, are not necessarily associated with the practice. But don't tell that to this bulldog named Petey, who puts on a good vocal performance for this Facebook reel! 

As Petey sits in a yard howling away, his owner captions his antics with: "I've had English bulldogs my entire adult life. That being said, I've never seen a bulldog howl! Petey is a unit for sure. He's a big stubborn goofball." One person replied in the comments, "Ours never howls either. Petey demands to be heard!"

Cuteness spoke exclusively with Russell Hartstein, a certified dog behaviorist who offers dog training services in Los Angeles, about this unusual behavior. "Often, when a dog howls, it is something that has been reinforced by its guardian (either on purpose or by mistake)," he says, adding that "the most common cause of spontaneous howling is in response to some sound in the environment, such as another dog howling, a loud siren, or other high-pitched sounds. Dogs will [also] sometimes howl when left alone and missing their guardians." It's hard to know what prompted Petey to howl in the clip, but once he starts, he clearly has a lot to say!

Hearing a dog howl is always a little surprising, but hearing a bulldog do it might make you do a double-take! That's because these lovable, stocky pups are known more for snorts, grunts, and funny little grumbles than dramatic, wolf-like calls. Especially since their laid-back personalities usually mean they aren't the type to spend their day making a racket. So, while individual dogs have different habits, howling just isn't a behavior most people associate with bulldogs.

Their physical features may play a role in this, as bulldogs have short muzzles and distinctive facial structures that can affect their breathing and vocalizations. Instead of communicating through long, drawn-out howls, they often rely on barking, whining, and body language. A bulldog doesn't need a big vocal performance to make its feelings known!

Still, don't assume a bulldog will never, ever howl. As expert Russell Hartstein noted about Petey's Facebook reel, some may join in when they hear a siren, music, or another dog howling nearby, while others might vocalize when they're lonely or seeking attention. (Just look at this golden retriever howling to the "Law & Order" theme song, or this yorkie's sad howl after being dropped off with a babysitter.) However, if your bulldog suddenly starts howling frequently, especially alongside signs of discomfort or breathing trouble, checking with a veterinarian is your best bet, as it's always better to be safe than sorry. Otherwise, just crack it up to your dog being so dramatic that they might deserve an Oscar!