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Why does my puppy whine when playing with toys? Is it normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why does my puppy whine when he's playing with his toys?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 1st, 2015

It is possible that your puppy is just excited while playing with his toys, and so makes happy or whiny sounds. Some dogs and puppies will "play growl" as they play tug of war or other games and just do it due to excitement. This is a very normal behavior unless you are seeing signs of stress or pain during the play session. If you'd like your puppy to whine less when trying to get to a toy, you can try an activity of having him sit and wait, and then give the toy once he is calm. (This may take a few minutes for very excited puppies!) This will help to teach him that sitting and being calm will get him toys, while being too excited will not.
Vote Icon14Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 26th, 2019

    Yes, puppies will whine when they are excited or happy. This sounds normal. Try to ignore the whining when he does it. If you make a big deal about it you will be reinforcing the behavior and it is not really a desirable behavior. It is cute when they are puppies but it will be really annoying when he is an adult!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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