FLASH NEWS
Do you yell at your dog? Here's what happens to its brain and emotions
2026-02-18 16:04:04 / JETË
Raising your voice can activate the "fight or flight" response and damage the bond with the owner.
For most owners, dogs are like family members. But like any other creature, they sometimes do "bad things" that make us raise our voices. What really happens to dogs when we start yelling at them?
Dog trainer Alan Peiro explains that if your dog is anxious or excited, punishment or yelling is not an effective solution. He recommends redirecting the behavior calmly. For example, instead of scolding him for jumping, ask him to sit and reward him when he does. According to him, this helps the dog understand what is expected of him, without creating fear or tension.
What happens when you raise your voice?
You feel confused.
According to animal behavior experts, dogs respond more to the tone and intensity of voice than to the words themselves. As the American Kennel Club (AKC) reports, raising your voice often creates more confusion than understanding.
Experiencing fear or stress
A very high pitched tone can be perceived as a threat. The RSPCA points out that yelling can activate the “fight or flight” response in dogs, increasing levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
May develop chronic anxiety
Studies published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior show that the use of punitive methods is associated with increased long-term stress and anxiety in dogs. As ScienceDaily writes, dogs trained with harsh methods show more signs of stress compared to those trained with positive methods.
The connection with the owner is damaged.
Frequent yelling can undermine trust. The dog may become more withdrawn or less willing to interact. Experts from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) point out that verbal punishment can weaken the owner-animal relationship.
Doesn't teach proper behavior
Yelling does not teach a dog what to do; it simply temporarily stops a behavior without offering an alternative. Professional trainers point out that without positive instruction, the dog remains uncertain about expectations.
What works best?
Experts recommend positive reinforcement, praise, rewards, and calm guidance. According to the American Kennel Club, this method:
Increases confidence
Reduces problem behaviors
Improves communication
Strengthens emotional bond
Reward-based training not only helps the dog learn faster, but also contributes to its emotional well-being.
Conclusion:
Yelling may seem like a natural reaction in a moment of frustration, but for the dog it is a source of stress and confusion. A calm, consistent, and positive reinforcement-based approach is more effective and builds a healthier relationship with your four-legged friend.
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