Why Does My Dog Bark So Much?
Dogs obviously can't talk like humans (we wish!) so they use barking to express themselves and what they’re thinking. It’s a versatile tool, used by domesticated dogs in many different ways. It’s important to keep in mind that barking is not inherently good or bad. It all depends on the situation, and individual dog.
Many breeds have highly evolved vocalisations that help them to do specific jobs, like being guard dogs or tracking game. As a result, certain breeds are more inclined to bark than others. Personality also plays a significant role: each dog is unique and may have their own distinct reasons for barking.
Common Reasons for Barking
Enthusiasm
When you get home and your dog goes crazy, barking ecstatically, it’s their way of saying, “I’m so happy to see you! I can hardly contain myself!” They may also bark if they see you pick up a favourite toy or grab the leash because it means fun is sure to come.
Socialisation
Along with body language and smell, dogs also use vocal cues to socialise. Depending on the interaction, they could be saying, “Let’s be friends!” or “Sorry, you’re not my type.”
Vigilance
Dogs are attentive, and love putting their superior senses to work. When they howl in the middle of the night or bark at the bushes during a walk, they may be alerting you to an unfamiliar presence nearby.
Loneliness
If left alone too long, a dog may bark to get attention. So, if you have to be away from your buddy for an extended amount of time, look into doggy day care or leave him with a trustworthy friend.
Dogs with separation anxiety often bark excessively when left alone. They also usually exhibit other symptoms as well, such as pacing, destructiveness, depression, and inappropriate elimination. Compulsive barkers seem to bark just to hear the sound of their voices. They also often make repetitive movements as well, such as running in circles or along a fence.
How to Treat Excessive Barking
Getting your dog to bark less will take time, work, practice, and consistency. It won’t happen overnight, but with proper techniques and time, you can see progress.
Here are a few tips to remember as you start your efforts to control your dog’s barking:
- Shouting stimulates your dog to bark more because he thinks you’re joining in. So the first rule is to speak calmly and firmly, but don’t yell.
- Most dogs don’t know what you want when you’re yelling at them to “shut up.” So train your dog to understand the word “Quiet!”. Ensure any family members adhere to the new rules too.
Here are two methods:
When your dog is barking, say “Quiet” in a calm, firm voice. Wait until he stops barking, even if it’s just to take a breath, then praise him and give him a treat. Just be careful to never reward him while he’s barking. Eventually he will figure out that if he stops barking at the word “quiet” he gets a treat (and make it a delicious treat, such as cheese or chicken, to make it worth more than the barking.)
If you’re still having trouble figuring out what’s causing your dog to bark, start by putting yourself in their paws. When you take time to consider your dog’s daily environment and unique temperament it becomes easier to identify potential causes of barking.
Barking is normal, but if it gets excessive, use it as an opportunity to understand what your dog is going through so you can improve their quality of life.
Check out our Puppy Preschool classes!
Information from Petcentric.com/Purina.co.nz
Dogs obviously can't talk like humans (we wish!) so they use barking to express themselves and what they’re thinking. It’s a versatile tool, used by domesticated dogs in many different ways. It’s important to keep in mind that barking is not inherently good or bad. It all depends on the situation, and individual dog.
Many breeds have highly evolved vocalisations that help them to do specific jobs, like being guard dogs or tracking game. As a result, certain breeds are more inclined to bark than others. Personality also plays a significant role: each dog is unique and may have their own distinct reasons for barking.
Common Reasons for Barking
Enthusiasm
When you get home and your dog goes crazy, barking ecstatically, it’s their way of saying, “I’m so happy to see you! I can hardly contain myself!” They may also bark if they see you pick up a favourite toy or grab the leash because it means fun is sure to come.
Socialisation
Along with body language and smell, dogs also use vocal cues to socialise. Depending on the interaction, they could be saying, “Let’s be friends!” or “Sorry, you’re not my type.”
Vigilance
Dogs are attentive, and love putting their superior senses to work. When they howl in the middle of the night or bark at the bushes during a walk, they may be alerting you to an unfamiliar presence nearby.
Loneliness
If left alone too long, a dog may bark to get attention. So, if you have to be away from your buddy for an extended amount of time, look into doggy day care or leave him with a trustworthy friend.
Dogs with separation anxiety often bark excessively when left alone. They also usually exhibit other symptoms as well, such as pacing, destructiveness, depression, and inappropriate elimination. Compulsive barkers seem to bark just to hear the sound of their voices. They also often make repetitive movements as well, such as running in circles or along a fence.
How to Treat Excessive Barking
Getting your dog to bark less will take time, work, practice, and consistency. It won’t happen overnight, but with proper techniques and time, you can see progress.
Here are a few tips to remember as you start your efforts to control your dog’s barking:
- Shouting stimulates your dog to bark more because he thinks you’re joining in. So the first rule is to speak calmly and firmly, but don’t yell.
- Most dogs don’t know what you want when you’re yelling at them to “shut up.” So train your dog to understand the word “Quiet!”. Ensure any family members adhere to the new rules too.
Here are two methods:
When your dog is barking, say “Quiet” in a calm, firm voice. Wait until he stops barking, even if it’s just to take a breath, then praise him and give him a treat. Just be careful to never reward him while he’s barking. Eventually he will figure out that if he stops barking at the word “quiet” he gets a treat (and make it a delicious treat, such as cheese or chicken, to make it worth more than the barking.)
If you’re still having trouble figuring out what’s causing your dog to bark, start by putting yourself in their paws. When you take time to consider your dog’s daily environment and unique temperament it becomes easier to identify potential causes of barking.
Barking is normal, but if it gets excessive, use it as an opportunity to understand what your dog is going through so you can improve their quality of life.
Check out our Puppy Preschool classes!
Information from Petcentric.com/Purina.co.nz