Why do dogs squeak when excited?

In the warm time we spend with dogs, there are always moments that can melt our hearts. Among them, the energetic appearance of dogs when they are excited, especially the squeaks they make, can easily catch our attention. Every time we hear the excited squeaks of dogs, a warm current will surge in our hearts, and we can't help but wonder why they make such a special sound at such an exciting moment? ​

From the physiological structure of dogs, their vocal system provides the basis for the squeak. The dog's throat is delicate and complex, and the vocal cords are like the strings in a musical instrument, which is the key part of the sound. When a dog is in an excited state, the breathing rate will increase significantly, and the speed and strength of the airflow through the vocal cords will change. This fast and powerful airflow impact causes the vocal cords to vibrate at a special frequency and amplitude, which in turn produces the squeak we hear. This is just like when we play a musical instrument, different playing strengths and methods will produce completely different timbres. The unique vibration of a dog's vocal cords when excited creates the recognizable squeak. ​

Dogs are extremely communicative animals, and squeaks are often an important language for them to express their excitement. When we finish a busy day and step into the house, dogs happily run to our side, accompanied by a series of squeaks with their tails swinging wildly. This is actually their way of conveying to us the joy in their hearts, as if saying: "Master, you are finally back, I missed you so much, I am so happy!" For example, when dogs see their favorite toys or delicious food, the squeaks they make are eagerly expressing their expectations and desires, cheering for the upcoming happy time or food feast. In the social world of dogs, squeaks also have a unique meaning. When two dogs meet for the first time, if one of them squeaks in a friendly way, it is releasing goodwill, conveying its excitement and harmless emotions to the other, and trying to start a pleasant interaction. ​

In addition, the squeaks of dogs when they are excited are also closely related to the release of energy accumulated in their bodies. Dogs are naturally full of energy. When excitement surges like a tide, their bodies are like fully charged small motors, full of energy. The squeak is like a "small outlet" for releasing energy. Imagine that after running and playing in the park, the dog runs towards you with joy. At this time, the squeak it makes is not just a sound, but also a way for it to vent the excess energy and excitement generated by exercise through the vibration of the vocal cords. Just as we may shout loudly and dance when we are extremely excited, dogs choose to use squeaks to express the surging in their hearts. ​

Emotional factors also play a key role in the process of dogs making squeaks. The emotional world of dogs is rich and delicate. When excited, their brains will secrete a variety of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which makes dogs feel happy and excited. Driven by this strong emotion, dogs strengthen their emotional expression by making squeaks. For example, when a dog is involved in an intense and interesting game, every successful interaction makes its excitement soar, and dopamine continues to be secreted. At this time, the squeaks it makes will be more frequent and high-pitched, which is its deep response to the current happy experience. ​

It is worth mentioning that the behavior of dogs making squeaks may also be gradually strengthened by the influence of their owners during their growth. If the owner gives a positive response every time the dog squeaks, such as gentle caressing, kind words or delicious snacks as rewards, the dog will subconsciously associate the squeak with getting attention and rewards. Over time, when the dog is in an excited state, in order to get more care and rewards from the owner, they will be more inclined to squeak.

As the dog's closest companion, every squeak made by the dog when it is excited is like a happy note they share with us. These sounds are not only a unique expression of their emotions, but also a vivid embodiment of the deep emotional bond between us and dogs. Every time we hear the energetic squeak, we seem to see the pure inner world of the dog and feel their unreserved love and enthusiasm.