The Most Common Causes of Dog Barking

Barking, whining, and howling is all-natural behaviors for dogs. Dogs use vocalization to interact and express themselves with people. We sometimes want our dogs to bark to alert us of impending danger or to protect us from harm. At other times, the barking is excessive and appears to be meaningless.

Reasons

Barking can occur for a multitude of causes. Dogs don't bark only to be heard (though it might seem that way at times). They don't bark to bother you or your neighbors, nor do they bark out of spite or retaliation.

Certain dog breeds have a higher proclivity for barking than others. In fact, certain breeds of dogs were created specifically to bark. This could be to warn people of impending danger, protect dwellings, or even scare wildlife out of hiding for hunters. The Basenji, on the other hand, does not bark, though it can communicate in other ways.

If you pay attention, you'll soon learn the sounds of your dog's many barks. Then you might be able to deduce what each bark signifies. Understanding why your dog is barking is the first step toward controlling the behavior.

Warning/Alert

When someone comes to the door or strangers walk by the house or automobile, it is natural for a dog to bark. If they feel a threat, many dogs will bark, saying, "I'm here to protect this spot, so don't mess with me." This bark is usually harsh, loud, and authoritative in nature. Training can help you hone this instinct and safeguard your house and family.

Anxiety

Many dogs' anxious barking appears to be a form of self-soothing. It's usually high-pitched and accompanied by whining. Dogs with separation anxiety, anxieties, and phobias, or other forms of anxiety are prone to this type of barking.

Attention-seeking

You'll typically know what this bark implies when you hear it. This bark declares "Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey I've arrived!" Other dogs may whine and bark at the same time to attract attention, almost like a whining toddler.

Playfulness/Excitement

Puppies and young dogs are particularly prone to this form of barking. When playing with people or other dogs, many dogs will bark. Even the bark has a cheerful and possibly musical tone to it. When they know they're going for a stroll or a car ride, some dogs will yelp joyfully.

Other Dogs' Reactions

This is an all-too-common circumstance. One dog down the street begins to bark, and the rest of your block follows suit. It sounds like a jumbled-up cover of Row Your Boat.

Boredom

A bored dog's bark sounds like a dog barking merely to hear her own voice. It's annoying, but it's also a little depressing. Bored dogs frequently bark to expel surplus energy and, on occasion, to express loneliness. They normally require some sort of activity and, in some cases, a companion.

Barking Is a Problem

Without your assistance, excessive barking is unlikely to improve. Take efforts to address the source of the barking once you've figured out what's causing it. If your dog's barking appears to be caused by fear or anxiety, you should first consult your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can rule out medical causes for the behavior and, if necessary, prescribe medication to help. A dog with a high level of anxiety will find it extremely difficult to learn new things. Anxiety-relieving medications can help you work out more effectively.