Life StyleWhy Dogs Bark: Stop Dog Barking !

Why Dogs Bark: Stop Dog Barking !

Your cuddly pup would never stay without barking. If you expect such behavior from him, it’s indeed unreasonable. But some dogs bark too much. Therefore, you have to figure out what makes them bark excessively. Once you know why they bark, then you can take the necessary steps to mitigate dog barking, but it’s not stoppable.

Why Dogs Bark 

Barking is how dogs communicate, and why they bark will vary depending on the situation. Here are some common reasons why your pup excessively bark and the tips to help manage it.

Reasons Dogs Bark:

  1. Territorial or Protective Barking When a person or animal enters a space your dog sees as their territory, barking is their way of alerting and warding off intruders. When they realise the proximity of the threat their barking intensifies. Your pup may bark louder and more insistent.
  2. Alarm or Fear Barking Dogs may bark at noises or objects that catch them off guard, whether they’re in or outside of their home. A fearful dog often tucks its tail and lays its ears back as they bark.
  3. Boredom or Loneliness Dogs are naturally social creatures, and when left alone for long stretches, they can feel bored or lonely, leading to barking out of frustration or sadness.
  4. Greeting or Play Barking Dogs commonly bark when meeting people or other dogs. This is usually a cheerful bark, accompanied by tail wags or jumping.
  5. Attention-Seeking Barking If a dog wants something—be it food, playtime, or going outside—they may bark to get your attention.
  6. Separation Anxiety Barking Dogs with separation anxiety may bark when they’re alone or sense you’re about to leave. This is often coupled with behaviors like pacing, destructive chewing, or accidents indoors.
  7. Compulsive Barking Some dogs bark repetitively, seemingly for the sake of barking. This compulsive behavior may be paired with actions like running in circles or along a fence.

Why Dogs Bark in Their Sleep

why dogs bark
Image-Source: shopify

Dogs may also bark in their sleep while dreaming. Smaller dogs tend to bark more often in their sleep as they spend more time in the REM cycle, where dreaming occurs.

How To Handle Excessive Barking:

  1. Training and Consistency

Teaching a dog to bark less needs time, patience, and a consistent approach. You may not shout  your pup. It advances barking as dogs may interpret this as joining in. Use a calm and firm voice. When your dog barks, say “Quiet” calmly and wait for them to stop, then reward them with praise and a treat. Consistent use of this word teaches them that stopping barking earns a reward.

  1. Desensitization If your dog barks when you leave, try short absences and gradually increase them to help them feel comfortable alone. Consulting a certified dog trainer or animal behaviorist can help make desensitization safer and more effective.
  2. Early Intervention Letting barking go unchecked makes it more likely to become habitual. Rewarding your dog when they don’t bark at stimuli (like the mailman) can help prevent territorial aggression.
  3. Consult Your Veterinarian Excessive barking can sometimes stem from medical issues like ongoing pain, canine senility, or other health problems. Always rule out a medical reason with your vet.
  4. Addressing Territorial, Alarm, or Fear-Based Barking Limit your dog’s exposure to triggers, such as by using solid fencing or covering windows where they can see passersby.
  5. Dealing with Boredom and Loneliness Give your dog engaging activities, such as puzzle toys or interactive play, especially if you’re away for extended periods. Doggie daycare or a dog walker can also help break up long days alone.
  6. Handling Attention-Seeking Barking Avoid reinforcing barking with attention. Teach your dog alternative ways to signal their needs, such as ringing a bell to go outside or pushing a water dish to signal thirst.
  7. Tackling Separation Anxiety and Compulsive Barking Dogs with severe separation anxiety or compulsive barking may benefit from professional behavior therapy or medications prescribed by a veterinarian.
  8. Should You Use Bark Collars? Bark collars can discourage barking with sounds, mist, or shocks, but they should be used with caution and not as the first line of action. Collars that deliver shocks can lead to aggression, while citronella collars may lose effectiveness if the dog learns to exhaust the spray.

What Is Debarking Surgery

Debarking surgery, where tissue around the vocal cords is removed, is highly controversial and only reduces the volume of the bark. It carries number of health risks and is not a recommended approach since barking is natural for dogs and often signals unmet needs. Y

Other Important Tips:

  • You may be consistent with what barking is acceptable. Encouraging your dog to bark at some sounds while discouraging others can be confusing.
  • Never leave a muzzle or similar restraint on your dog for extended periods, as this can harm them.

With consistent training, patience, and by meeting your dog’s social and physical needs, you can reduce excessive barking and create a quieter, more comfortable environment for everyone.

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