why does my poodle howl?

Question
I've noticed that my female 3yr old poodle named Peaches howls when she feels like were crying or even play crying . This behavior worries me. Is she sad or what is she interpreting. She also drinks out of the toilet bowl when she has a clean bowl with water of her own.

Answer
Dogs are highly tuned to their owners' emotions.  They are also highly sociable, joining in when the rest of their pack is howling.  

The best solution to the toilet bowl is keeping the seat down.  I don't know why some dogs prefer the toilet.  They do have far different attitudes towards waste.  You could also try raising the water dish.